A German Fachhochschule is a university of applied sciences. It trains you through hands-on, practical learning instead of pure theory. This article explains what a Fachhochschule is and why it can be a smart choice for business and finance students.
What Is a Fachhochschule?
A Fachhochschule (say it: FAKH-hoch-shoo-leh) is a type of German university. The name means "university of applied sciences" (UAS). Many now use the newer name "Hochschule für angewandte Wissenschaften" (HAW), or a field-specific name like "Hochschule für Technik und Wirtschaft" (school of technology and business).
Fachhochschulen focus on skills you can use right away in a job. You learn through real projects, case studies, and internships. This is different from a traditional research university, called a Universität in German.
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The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) lists accredited Fachhochschule and Universität programs. You can also check how a German qualification compares to one from your home country using anabin, a database run by Germany's Standing Conference of Education Ministers (KMK).
Note: A Fachhochschule bachelor's or master's degree carries the same academic weight as a degree from a Universität. German law treats both as equal.
Note: Fachhochschulen can be public (state-run) or private. The German institutions available through ApplyBoard are private Universities of Applied Sciences. They are accredited, recognized schools known for practical, career-focused business and finance programs, and many teach in English.
Fachhochschule vs Universität: What Is the Difference?
The main difference is teaching style, not quality. A Universität focuses on research and theory. A Fachhochschule focuses on practice and real-world skills.
Both paths lead to respected degrees. Your choice depends on whether you prefer hands-on learning or deep research.
Why a Fachhochschule Is a Great Fit for Business and Finance Students
Business and finance are practical fields. Employers want graduates who already know how to work with real data, real clients, and real teams. A Fachhochschule builds this experience into your degree.
Learn by doing
You work on real business cases, group projects, and company partnerships instead of only reading theory.
Built-in internships
Many business and finance programs include a practical semester at a company. You graduate with real work experience.
Industry-experienced professors
Professors at a Fachhochschule often worked in business or finance before teaching. They bring real examples to class.
Smaller class sizes
Smaller groups mean more feedback, more discussion, and closer support from your professors.
Strong employer networks
Company partnerships and internships help you build contacts before you even graduate.
Faster path to the job market
The practical focus helps many graduates move into full-time roles soon after finishing their degree.
Business and Finance Programs You Can Study at a Fachhochschule
Fachhochschulen across Germany offer many business and finance programs. Common options include:
- Betriebswirtschaftslehre (BWL): general business administration
- International Business or International Management
- Finance and Accounting
- International Business and Finance
- Banking and Financial Services
- Business Informatics (business plus IT skills)
Admission Requirements for International Students
Requirements can vary by school and program. Most Fachhochschulen admit new students twice a year: the winter semester (starting in October, similar to a "fall intake") and the summer semester (starting in April). In general, you can expect these steps:
- A recognized secondary school certificate or, for master's programs, a completed bachelor's degree
- Proof of language ability: most private Universities of Applied Sciences teach business and finance programs in English, so you may only need an English test score like IELTS or TOEFL. Public Fachhochschulen more often require German (B2 or C1 level)
- An Academic Evaluation Centre certificate (APS certificate), a document that verifies your past education, if you are applying from a country where this is required.
- A valid passport and, once accepted, a German student visa or residence permit
Note: The list of countries that need an APS certificate can change. For more information, read our helpful guides on the APS Certificate process if you are from India, China, or Vietnam:
Tuition Fees and Cost of Studying at a Fachhochschule
Tuition depends on whether a Fachhochschule is public or private. Public Fachhochschulen usually charge no tuition, only a small semester contribution fee that often covers administration costs and a public transport ticket. Private Universities of Applied Sciences, including the schools available through ApplyBoard, charge tuition fees each semester, similar to private universities in other countries.
Disclaimer: Fee amounts and rules change by school and by state. Check the exact tuition and semester contribution amounts on ApplyBoard or via the school's official website before you budget.
Career Outcomes: What Happens After You Graduate
Germany has a strong demand for skilled business and finance professionals. Frankfurt, for example, is a major European financial center and home to large banks.
After you graduate, Germany offers a residence permit that lets you stay in the country to look for a job that matches your degree.
The practical training you get at a Fachhochschule, such as internships and company projects, can make it easier to find a related job after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. German law treats Fachhochschule degrees as equal in academic standing to Universität degrees. Employers and other universities around the world generally recognize both.
In most cases, yes. A Fachhochschule bachelor's degree can qualify you for a master's program at a Universität, as long as you meet that program's specific entry requirements.
Not usually. Many German employers value the practical experience and internships that come with a Fachhochschule degree, especially in business and finance roles.
Some business and finance programs are taught fully in English, especially at the master's level. Others require German. Confirm the language of instruction on ApplyBoard before applying.
The German institutions available through ApplyBoard are private Universities of Applied Sciences. They are accredited, recognized schools that focus on practical, career-ready business and finance education, often taught in English. Check ApplyBoard for the current list of partner schools.
A Fachhochschule can give you the practical skills, industry contacts, and hands-on training that business and finance employers look for. Through ApplyBoard, you can explore private Universities of Applied Sciences in Germany that build these same strengths into English-taught business and finance programs.
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