Ruhr University Bochum ranks #25 among the Best Global Universities in Germany and #163 among the Best Global universities in Europe. With nine research departments, the university offers opportunities for cutting edge, interdisciplinary research. International students can choose among 20 disciplines that offer numerous undergraduate and graduate programs at Ruhr University Bochum.

Ruhr University houses more than 42,500 students, including over 6,000 international students and more than 1,300 international doctoral candidates and academic guests. These international students of the college come from over 130 countries. The university also has over 300 partnerships with institutions in other countries.

Along with adequate, high-end infrastructure for learning and research on the campus, by enrolling at the RUB, students can also explore the art, culture and nature trails around the city of Bochum. Students applying to the university are not required to pay any tuition fees. However, international students are required to submit proof of proficiency in German through exams to study in Germany while applying to any of the courses at the university.

Ruhr University Bochum Ranking

  • #251-300 among World University Rankings, 2023 according to Times Higher Education
  • #372 among the Best Global Universities (tie) by US News, 2023.
  • #163 among the Best Global Universities in Europe by US News, 2023.
  • #25 among the Best Global Universities in Germany by US News, 2023.

Highlights

Type of University Public
Location Urban
Campus Area[8] 45 sq. km.
Overall Acceptance Rate[9] 40%
Semester Fees (per semester)[10] €330
Cost of Living (per month) €720
Tuition Fees Not required
Work while study Yes
Official Website https://uni.ruhr-uni-bochum.de/
Intake type Semester

Ruhr University Bochum Campus and Accommodation

The campus is spread across an enormous area. Along with world-class infrastructure for learning and research, the campus is home to numerous facilities for leisure, recreation, sports and more. The Green Island Botanical Garden allows students to go for guided tours in groups of a maximum of 20 participants. The Campus Museum houses various rare art collections.

Unifit is the university’s gym that has over 100 fitness stations. Students can choose from over 50 sports in presence as well as online and also join a university sports team to participate in university sports competitions. The university has its own musical centre called curtain up.

Outside the campus, students can explore the diverse cultural and leisure activities such as nature trails, sightseeing, shopping and more, that the city of Bochum has to offer. Students can also visit the legendary Bermuda triangle or explore the city through ‘Insta Walks’ city tours.

Ruhr University Bochum Accommodation

Students can apply for a residential facility online at the fully furnished, well-equipped dormitories. Most of these dormitories are offered by AkaFö and are located in the proximity of the campus. The residential facilities are in such great demand that at times, students may have to wait up to six months for allocation.

Ruhr University Bochum Programs

The university through its 20 faculties offers diverse courses at undergraduate, graduate and doctorate levels. 16 double and joint degree courses are also offered at the university in collaboration with other universities in Germany and abroad. Some of the courses offered at RUB are:

Programs Semesters available No. of semesters Language of instruction
MS in Cognitive Science Winter 4 English
MS in Biochemistry Winter 4 English
MA in Linguistic Data Science Winter 4 English
MS in Molecular and Developmental Stem Cell Biology Winter 4 English
MS in Economic Policy Consulting Winter and Summer 4 English, German
BSc in Biochemistry Winter 6 German
BSc in IT security / Information Technology Winter 6 German
BSc in Management and Economics Summer and Winter 6 German

Ruhr University Bochum Admission Process

In the International Welcome program, all new international students receive information such as introductions to the common (online) programs, city registration, course registration, fellow students and more. The campus guides (students from higher semesters) support students through these sessions. Winter semester international welcome is scheduled between September 27 to October 9.

While all international students are required to submit the complete application form, undergraduate students must meet the following pre- requisites before applying:

  • Qualifying the University entrance (HZB).
  • Certain courses also require proof of knowledge and skills. For instance, the Sports Aptitude Test. Course specific requirements must be checked on the respective course websites.
  • Language requirements: certain courses have specific language requirements.
  • Students meeting the requirements can apply by submitting the application form and uploading the following documents:
  • Copy of passport
  • Proof of proficiency in the German language
  • Assessment test (examination part German)
  • Official transcripts of high school or university translated to English or German, as well as in the original language.

Applications for the Summer semester will start from the beginning of December to January 15.

To apply for the Masters courses students must submit the complete application form and upload relevant documents that include:

  • Copy of passport
  • Proof of proficiency in German
  • Official transcripts/ certificate of completion in original language and translation to German or English
  • Performance overview- list of subjects and grades
  • Proof of proficiency in English for certain courses
  • Essays for certain courses.

Note: Résumé, letters of motivation, photos and LOR are not mandatory.

Ruhr University Bochum Cost of Attendance

The university does not charge any tuition fees. Students are only required to pay a semester fee of €330/ semester (~28,600 INR). This fee is inclusive of the costs for use of public transport in North-Rhine Westphalia, and subsidised prices for food and beverages in the canteens and cafeteria. The estimated cost of living that covers costs for rent, health insurance, food, books, and supplies, and excursions is about €720/ month (~62,000 INR).

Ruhr University Bochum Scholarships

The university offers scholarships of € 400 monthly (~34,700 INR) over a period of four months. To be eligible for scholarships, international students must have excellent academic records. They should also be reliant on financial support during their final phase of the study.

Work while Study

Students may work as student assistants at the university or find a job with an employer outside the university. For jobs outside the university, proficiency in German is often essential. Students can get a job in the university after the first semester based on their academic records. Student assistants can work for nine hours a week and can earn about € 400 a month (~34,700 INR). As per the regulations, international students can work up to three months full-time or six months half-time and 10 hours each week in case of student assistant positions.

Ruhr University Bochum Alumni Network

All alumni can sign up and register to join the alumni association. The alumni association organises various events such as reunions, alumni festivals, career workshops, webinars and more to provide networking opportunities to all alumni. The alumni can also volunteer for mentorship and guide current students for jobs and internships. Students can also connect with alumni through LinkedIn or Xing.

Ruhr University Bochum Placements

The university’s Career Service provides students support and guidance for career through various career events and lectures, courses and workshops as well as personal advice and coaching in order to ensure that students are well prepared for starting their career. The average pay for graduates of Masters of Science courses is around $87,000, while that for graduates of BS in Science is $64,000. The average salary of Ruhr University Bochum graduates is provided below:

Profession Average Annual Salary in Euro
Financial Services 69,000
IT and Software Development 65,000
Engineering 62,000
Consulting, Accounting and Professional Services 57,000

The RUB is a reputed institute offering opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and high-end research. With over 6,300 international students and 300 international partnerships, the university values and respects diversity. With scholarships and assistantship opportunities to support eligible international students and no requirement of tuition fees, it makes for a good option for students to pursue their higher education in Germany.

FAQ

Do I need proof of German proficiency before applying to the university?

Yes, students need to submit proof of proficiency in German while applying.

Proficiency in which other languages is required for graduate courses and what is the minimum score requirement?

The language requirements are course-specific. Preferably English and German are the accepted languages.

What is the acceptance rate of Ruhr University?

The university is very selective, with an overall acceptance rate of 40%.

What is the application deadline?

Applications for summer semester will start in early December and will remain open till January 15.

Are there scholarships for international students?

Yes, international students who have excellent academic records and demonstrate financial need, are eligible for scholarships.

Where can I direct admission related queries?

Students can send admission related queries to admission@uv.rub.de.

What am I required to do, once my application is accepted?

If your application is accepted and you receive a letter of admission, you must accept the admission and inform the university within the deadline specified in the admission letter.