Thinking global? Think Frankfurt. Germany’s financial capital. A miniature Manhattan wrapped in cobblestone charm. A place where medieval rooftops and glass skyscrapers coexist like old roommates that still get along.
When you study in Frankfurt, you’re not just enrolling in world-class institutions, you’re joining an international engine. Known for hosting the European Central Bank, Frankfurt is a powerhouse of economics, technology, and culture. Yet it’s also woven with greenery, riverside paths, and cozy traditional pubs.
With a population of over 750,000, Frankfurt is compact but incredibly cosmopolitan, hosting over 200 nationalities. That’s not hype. That’s home to a student like you.
The city balances high-speed ambition with relaxed livability. English is widely spoken, trains are always on time, and student life blends perfectly with urban exploration. This isn’t just a study destination. Frankfurt gives you momentum.
Why International Students Are Choosing Frankfurt
Let’s unpack the “why.” Frankfurt isn’t just important, it’s strategic.
Over 15,000 international students live and study in the region. Frankfurt’s status as Europe’s financial heart makes it a global magnet, especially for business, finance, law, and tech students. Think real-world networking while still in lecture halls. Powerful, right?
But don’t worry if spreadsheets aren’t your thing. The city is also home to first-class humanities, arts, natural sciences, and language programs. What’s more? Many local universities offer English-taught courses, especially at Master’s and postgraduate levels.
Tuition? Often free or very low at public institutions. Living standards? High. Lifestyle? Unmatched. From rooftop gigs in hipster Sachsenhausen to serene afternoons in Palmengarten or museum hopping along the Main, Frankfurt makes being a student feel like you somehow hacked adulthood.
And with Germany offering up to 18 months to stay post-graduation and hunt for jobs, Frankfurt isn’t just where you study, it could be your future HQ.
Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Frankfurt 🎓
1. Goethe University Frankfurt
Flagship public university with over 48,000 students. Top-ranked globally for economics, law, psychology, and natural sciences. Major bonus: no tuition fees.
2. Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences (Frankfurt UAS)
Hands-on, career-driven learning. Excellent for engineering, business tech, social work, tourism, and architecture. Offers several programs in English.
3. EBS Universität (EBS Business School)
Private and prestigious. Known for business, finance, and law. Located close to Frankfurt in Wiesbaden, it’s internationally ranked with high corporate connectivity.
4. Frankfurt School of Finance & Management
Finance fanatics, rejoice. Ranked among Europe’s top 25 for business. MBA, finance, fintech, and econ programs, all taught in English. Career-focused.
5. Städelschule (State Academy of Fine Arts)
Small, elite art academy making BIG waves globally. High-profile professors, experimental formats, and minimal tuition. Best for contemporary artists.
6. Hochschule für Musik und Darstellende Kunst Frankfurt (HfMDK)
Germany’s top conservatory for music and performing arts. String ensembles to composers, actors to conductors, this is where mastery begins.
7. IU International University of Applied Sciences – Frankfurt Campus
Private, modern, and super flexible. Courses in English. Offers online and hybrid modes. Great for working students or digital nomads.
8. CBS International Business School
Top-rated for international management and marketing. English programs with a strong focus on real-world training and internships.
9. Accadis Hochschule Bad Homburg
20 minutes from Frankfurt, this is a boutique business school offering dual degrees and industry-led training. Small classes, huge networking potential.
10. Provadis School of International Management and Technology
Located inside the Höchst Industrial Park, talk about practical learning! Best for science-led business, biotech, and pharmaceutical careers.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Frankfurt 🏠
- THE FIZZ Frankfurt
- Urbanum Student Housing
- Yugo Frankfurt Central
- Milestone Frankfurt Gallus
- SMARTments student Frankfurt
- Staytoo Frankfurt
- BaseCamp Frankfurt
- Living House Frankfurt
- Studentenwerk Frankfurt Dormitories
- Mainzer Landstraße Student Apartments
Top 10 Student Areas in Frankfurt: Where to Live, Study, and Chill
1. Bockenheim
Close to Goethe University’s main campus. Affordable eats, vintage shops, quiet parks. The FIZZ and SMARTments are based here.
2. Gallus
An up-and-coming district known for modern builds and creative spaces. Milestone Frankfurt Gallus is right here.
3. Sachsenhausen
Stylish yet laid-back. River views, apple wine taverns, and a buzzing student vibe. Great for HfMDK students and those downtown.
4. Ostend
Urban, youthful, and close to the European Central Bank. BaseCamp and Yugo Frankfurt are nearby. Ideal for economics and business majors.
5. Westend
Lush and elegant, with a serene atmosphere. Walkable to Universität Frankfurt campuses. Slightly pricier but classy.
6. Nordend
Boho-chic. Cafés, indie galleries, bike paths. Perfect for arts and culture students, especially those from Städelschule or HfMDK.
7. Rödelheim
Affordable and accessible. Growing in popularity among Goethe and UAS students. Slightly suburban, but very well-connected.
8. Bornheim
Nicknamed “the party district”, and for good reason. The nightlife is stellar. Many private shared flats here.
9. Höchst
If you’re studying at Provadis, this is your zone. Local charm, riverside markets, and lower-cost rent options.
10. City Centre (Innenstadt)
Busy, vibrant, and near everything. Great for IEU or IU students who want to live right at the city’s pulse. Urbanum offers housing right in the middle.
Cost of Living in Frankfurt 💶 (Monthly Breakdown)
Frankfurt isn’t the cheapest city in Germany, but it’s still student-manageable.
Here’s a realistic look:
- Rent: €400–€850/month (even less in shared units or student dorms)
- Food + Groceries: €200
- Public Transport (With Student Pass): €0 – Included in the semester “Semesterticket”
- Leisure + Miscellaneous: €150
- Health Insurance (Mandatory): €80–€120
- Total Monthly Cost: Around €850 to €1,300
Public university tuition is usually free, except for a small admin fee (~€250/semester). Private universities? Expect from €5,000 to €20,000/year depending on the course.
Local Transport in Frankfurt: Student-Friendly & Super Efficient
Buses, subways, trams, bikes. You name it, Frankfurt’s got it.
As a student, you’ll get the Semesterticket. This golden card gives free unlimited access to all public transport within the entire Rhine-Main region, including trains to Wiesbaden, Mainz, Darmstadt, and more.
Trams (S-Bahn) and metros (U-Bahn) are the fastest way around, while buses fill the gaps. Cycling is huge, and there are safe lanes across most city areas.
Apps like RMV or Deutsche Bahn are must-haves. And honestly? With everything so well-connected, you may never need a car.
Wrapping It All Up: Why Studying in Frankfurt Just Works
So, why should you study in Frankfurt?
Because it’s global, like your future. It’s fast, but not overwhelming. It’s academic, dynamic, affordable, and alive. This is a place where your resume grows while your cultural horizon explodes. Lecture halls by day, tech expos, book fests, or indie gigs by night.
Frankfurt offers the best of both worlds: hustle and harmony.
And if you plan smart, make connections, and stay open, even a short semester here can redefine your goals.
Think of Frankfurt less as a “destination” and more as a doorstep. To the EU, to real career prospects, to a chapter you’ll remember for life.
Ready?
Top 10 FAQs for Students Who Want to Study in Frankfurt 🚀
1. Is studying in Frankfurt expensive?
It’s affordable compared to other financial hubs. Public universities have minimal fees. Expect €850–€1,300/month for all living costs.
2. Are there English-taught programs in Frankfurt?
Yes. Most universities, especially at the Master’s level, offer courses in English.
3. Can international students work during their studies?
Yes. Up to 120 full or 240 half days per year with a student visa.
4. Is Frankfurt safe for students?
Very much so. It’s clean, safe, and student-friendly. Just stay alert in nightlife spots, like any city.
5. What’s the best university in Frankfurt?
Goethe University ranks highest, especially in sciences and humanities. Frankfurt School is top for business.
6. How do I get student housing in Frankfurt?
Apply early through Studentenwerk or try private residences like The FIZZ, Milestone, or Urbanum.
7. Do I need to speak German?
Helpful, yes. Required, not always. Many degrees are English-taught, but basic German strengthens daily life and job prospects.
8. How is public transport for students?
Fantastic, and free with your Semesterticket.
9. Can I stay in Germany after graduation?
Absolutely. You can apply for an 18-month post-study work visa to find a job.
10. Is Frankfurt good for international networking?
It doesn’t get better. With headquarters of global banks, startups, and NGOs nearby, opportunities are everywhere.
