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Erfurt combines medieval charm with low living costs and a growing higher education scene. Around 14,000 students live in Thuringia's capital. Two private universities operate here: IU International University of Applied Sciences runs one of its largest campuses with over 15 on-campus and dual programmes, and Health and Medical University Erfurt (HMU) offers programmes in medicine, psychology, and health sciences. Both universities are NC-free.
Why study at a private university in Erfurt?
Erfurt stands out for its extremely low cost of living (index: 62), a compact city centre with medieval character, and short distances. The Krämerbrücke, the cathedral square, and the old town are among Germany's most beautiful. Erfurt is also an ICE rail hub – Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt are reachable in under 2.5 hours.
IU: Campus of the largest German University
IU has its administrative headquarters in Thuringia and operates one of its key campuses in Erfurt. Over 15 programmes in business, IT, social work, and health are available on-campus or as dual study options. IU is Germany's largest private university and offers flexible study models including on-campus, distance, and evening formats.
HMU Erfurt: Study medicine privately
HMU Erfurt is one of the few options in Germany to study human medicine at a private university – without the typical NC of 1.0. Psychology and health science programmes are also available. The campus is modern and designed for small learning groups.
What does it cost to live in Erfurt as a student?
Erfurt is one of the most affordable state capitals in Germany. The cost of living index is 62. Monthly total costs: €700–900.
Rent and housing
A room in a shared flat costs between €280 and €400 per month. The old town, Brühler Viertel, and Andreasvorstadt are popular. Dormitory rooms through the Studierendenwerk Thüringen start from around €180.
Sample monthly budget
- Rent (shared flat): €340
- Health insurance: €110
- Semester ticket: €25
- Groceries & household: €180
- Leisure & culture: €80
- Total: approx. €735 per month (excluding tuition fees)
Admission, requirements, and financing
Both private universities in Erfurt are NC-free. IU tuition starts from around €250/month (distance learning) or €700/month (on-campus). HMU Erfurt charges approximately €1,500/month for the medical programme. BAföG is available at both institutions.
International applicants
If you hold a non-German qualification, verify recognition at anabin.kmk.org. IU offers English-taught degree programmes at the Erfurt campus. HMU Erfurt's medical programme is taught in German, so B2/C1 German proficiency is required. Erfurt's low living costs make it particularly attractive for international students on a budget.
Frequently asked questions about studying privately in Erfurt
Yes. HMU Erfurt offers a human medicine programme that is NC-free. Admission is based on a proprietary selection process. Tuition is approximately €1,500 per month – in return, you study in small groups with intensive supervision.
Erfurt is an ICE hub. Berlin is reachable in under 2 hours, Munich in 2.5 hours, Frankfurt in 2 hours. Locally, trams and buses cover the city. The compact centre is easily walkable and bike-friendly.
Yes. IU's administrative headquarters are in Thuringia, and the Erfurt campus offers both on-campus and distance learning programmes. The low living costs make Erfurt an ideal base for distance students who occasionally want to use campus facilities.
Erfurt is compact and easy to navigate. The pub scene around the old town and Andreasviertel is lively, and the cultural offering – theatre, festivals, live music – is solid. For a big-city experience, Berlin is a quick ICE ride away.
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