Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences
Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences is a well-established German HAW, offering practice-oriented engineering and business programmes with Germany’s characteristic converted-grade admission model.

Institution size
Mid-sized
Min. CGPA floor
2.5 or better
Tuition / yr
Near-free at public German universities
Type
Public University of Applied Sciences (HAW)
Key Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Wolfenbüttel and Salzgitter, Germany, Germany |
| Type | Public University of Applied Sciences (HAW) |
| Institution size | Mid-sized |
| Rankings | Universities of Applied Sciences (HAWs) are generally not covered by global research rankings such as QS/THE; Ostfalia is well regarded nationally for applied engineering and business education. |
| Notable feature | Well-established HAW with strong engineering and business ties |
| Official website | ostfalia.de |
Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants
- Admission based on converted final grade rather than individual backlog review, using the Modified Bavarian Formula or equivalent uni-assist evaluation
- Most programmes require a converted grade of approximately 2.5 or better on the German 1.0–4.0 scale
- Backlogs cleared in later semesters generally carry limited weight in this system
Tuition and Fees
| Item | Approximate Range |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Near-free at public German universities |
| Semester contribution fee | A few hundred euros, often including a public transport pass |
| Blocked account requirement (visa) | Approximately €11.9k per year |
| Living costs | €700–€1,000 per month, below Berlin |
Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.
Programmes Offered
- Mechanical and Automotive Engineering
- International Business
- Electrical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Social Work
- Health Sciences
- Media Management
- Wood Technology
This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.
Degree Levels Offered
- Diploma / Certificate: Offered
- Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
- Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
- Doctorate (PhD): Not offered at this institution
- Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Not offered at this institution
- Short Courses: Offered
Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.
Scholarships and Funding
- DAAD scholarships available for eligible applicants on a competitive national basis
- Near-free tuition itself functions as the primary cost advantage rather than a specific institutional scholarship programme
Application Process
- Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
- Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
- Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
- Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
- Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
- Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation
Admission Outlook
Ostfalia’s HAW status and converted-grade admission model make it accessible for students with a moderate CGPA and cleared backlogs, while its near-free tuition remains Germany’s structural advantage regardless of institution.
Campus Life
Based across Wolfenbüttel and Salzgitter, smaller cities in Lower Saxony, Ostfalia offers lower living costs than Berlin or Munich.
International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.
Other Essential Information
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Typical intakes | The Winter semester (starting October) is the primary intake with the widest programme availability; the Summer semester (starting April) offers more limited choice. |
| English language requirement | IELTS overall band 6.0-6.5 is typical for English-taught programmes; German-taught programmes require B2-C1 level German proficiency. |
| Student visa type | National (Type D) Visa, followed by a residence permit for studies |
| Post-study work options | Graduates may apply for an 18-month residence permit to seek qualified employment after completing their degree. |
Official Resources
- University homepage: ostfalia.de
Compare Ostfalia University of Applied Sciences against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.