Wiesbaden is the capital of Hesse, a historic spa city, and above all: the birthplace and headquarters of Fresenius University of Applied Sciences. With over 17 programmes at the location, Fresenius is the defining private university in the city. The offering is complemented by Charlotte Fresenius University for psychology and natural sciences, AMD Akademie Mode & Design, and EBS University for Business and Law in nearby Oestrich-Winkel. Most programmes are NC-free.
Why study at a private university in Wiesbaden?
Wiesbaden is the birthplace and headquarters of Fresenius University – that defines the location. The city combines spa-town charm with its position in the Rhine-Main economic region. Located opposite Mainz on the Rhine, Wiesbaden offers quiet studying with direct access to Frankfurt's job market.
Fresenius University: The anchor institution
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences was founded in 1848 as a chemical laboratory in Wiesbaden and is now one of Germany's largest private universities. At its original location, you will find over 17 programmes in business, psychology, media, health, and chemistry. Charlotte Fresenius University focuses on psychology and natural sciences.
AMD: Fashion and design
AMD offers programmes in fashion, media, and communication design at the Wiesbaden campus. Proximity to Frankfurt's creative industry and the fashion sector is a distinct advantage.
Spa city with Rhine-Main access
Wiesbaden is known for its hot springs, Art Nouveau architecture, and the Kurhaus. The city has abundant green spaces, is quieter than Frankfurt and Mainz, and offers a high quality of life. The RMV semester ticket takes you to Frankfurt in 40 minutes and Mainz in 15 minutes.
What does it cost to live in Wiesbaden as a student?
Wiesbaden sits in the upper mid-range for living costs. The cost of living index is 72. Monthly total costs: €820–1,080.
Rent and housing
A room in a shared flat costs between €400 and €530 per month. Westend, Rheingauviertel, and Biebrich are popular with students. The Studierendenwerk offers dormitory rooms from around €250.
Sample monthly budget
- Rent (shared flat): €460
- Health insurance: €110
- Semester ticket: €30
- Groceries & household: €200
- Leisure & culture: €90
- Total: approx. €890 per month (excluding tuition fees)
Admission, requirements, and financing
Private universities in Wiesbaden are NC-free. Fresenius tuition starts from around €400/month, EBS from around €900/month. BAföG is available at all state-recognised institutions.
International applicants
If you hold a non-German qualification, verify recognition at anabin.kmk.org. Fresenius University offers selected English-taught programmes. EBS has English-language MBA and business programmes. The Rhine-Main region's international character – with Frankfurt's finance sector – makes integration and career entry straightforward for English speakers.
Frequently asked questions about studying privately in Wiesbaden
Fresenius University of Applied Sciences offers a broad range of programmes in business, psychology, media, health, and chemistry. Charlotte Fresenius University is a separate institution focused on psychology and natural sciences – with small study groups and research-oriented teaching.
EBS's main campus is in Oestrich-Winkel in the Rheingau, about 30 minutes from Wiesbaden. Some events take place in Wiesbaden. EBS specialises in business and law and is among Germany's most prestigious private universities.
Yes. Fresenius University and Charlotte Fresenius University both offer multiple psychology programmes in Wiesbaden – at bachelor's and master's level with various specialisations. All programmes are NC-free.
The S-Bahn or regional train takes you to Frankfurt central station in 35–40 minutes. The RMV semester ticket covers the entire route. This gives you access to internships, jobs, and cultural events in Frankfurt at no additional cost.
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