Higher education institutions today

The current German higher education system is very complex and can be characterised by various features.
Here you will find information on the different types of higher education institutions, the legal framework of the higher education system, the autonomy of higher education institutions and information on the funding of German higher education institutions.

Types of higher education institutions

The German higher education system is characterised by different types of institutions. Each type of institution fulfils specific functions and tasks in this system and thus makes an important contribution to the development and success of research and teaching.

Types of institutions

Higher education law

Germany's federal structure is also reflected in higher education law. In addition to the generally binding Basic Law, legal principles at the federal and state level also apply. In the current higher education system, higher education institutions are subject to the legislation of the federal states.

Higher education law

Higher education autonomy

The higher education laws of the federal states also contain, in principle, provisions on the autonomy of higher education institutions. This means not only the right to self-governance, but also the ability to be independent of state influence in legal, financial, personnel and organisational matters.

Higher education autonomy

German
universities
in figures

The German higher education landscape currently consists of around 400 state-funded and state-recognised higher education institutions.

The majority of students in their first semester are enrolled at universities or universities of applied sciences. A significantly smaller proportion begin their studies at colleges of the arts or other institutions, such as private universities.

Statistical Data from the HRK
facts & figures

Higher education funding

The federal states are the bodies responsible for public higher education institutions in Germany and ensure their basic funding. All higher education institutions can receive further funding through special programmes and projects. These funds are made available by the federal government and private sponsors, for example.

Higher education funding

Research Map

The HRK Research Map allows you to search for German higher education institutions by the key research areas the institution is best known for.

Research Map