Gisma University of Applied Sciences
About
Gisma University of Applied Sciences in Potsdam is tuition-free for science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) and business degrees, with IELTS 6.0 entry — unusually affordable for a private applied university. Students may work up to 120 full days a year, and the EU-recognised degree qualifies for Germany's 18-month post-study job-seeker visa.
Potsdam is a picturesque town near Berlin with lakes, Prussian palaces, and a relaxed atmosphere. It's more affordable and quieter than Berlin, yet only 30 minutes away by train — ideal if you want a campus-town feel but access to Berlin's career opportunities and cultural scene.
Application deadlines
- SoSe 2027 (April)2027-01-31
Rolling, applications open December–January for April intake.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to study at Gisma University of Applied Sciences as a non-EU student?
Tuition for non-EU students at Gisma University of Applied Sciences is €0 per year. Living costs in Potsdam are separate.
What IELTS score do you need for Gisma University of Applied Sciences?
English-taught programmes at Gisma University of Applied Sciences typically require IELTS 6 or equivalent. Confirm the exact requirement per programme on the official admissions page.
How much money do you need to show for a student visa to Germany?
For a student residence permit in Germany you must prove €11,904 per year (2026, DAAD / Study in Germany — proof of financing (blocked account, 992 EUR/month for 12 months): https://www.study-in-germany.com/en/plan-your-studies/requirements/proof-of-financing/).
Does Gisma University of Applied Sciences offer scholarships?
DAAD: Master's/PhD, merit-based (RU/BY de-facto restricted post-2022). Deutschlandstipendium: €300/mo, all nationalities, merit + social commitment. Apply via university portal (Apr–Jun).
Where is Gisma University of Applied Sciences located?
Gisma University of Applied Sciences is in Potsdam, Germany. Hardenbergstr. 9, 10623 Berlin, Germany
What can you study at Gisma University of Applied Sciences?
Fields offered include: STEM, Business, International relations.
Accommodation
Partner residence Edge Student Hub from €399/month (6-month min, Zossen location, 45 min from Berlin by train). Free Accommodation Advisory Service — contact accommodation@gisma.com.
- Studierendenwerk Potsdam · regional student services — it allocates the halls, not the university
- WG-Gesucht
- HousingAnywhere
- ImmobilienScout24
Scholarships
- 🏛DAAD
- 🏛Deutschlandstipendium
DAAD: Master's/PhD, merit-based (RU/BY de-facto restricted post-2022). Deutschlandstipendium: €300/mo, all nationalities, merit + social commitment. Apply via university portal (Apr–Jun).
National funding for this destination
Honestly
Why this works
- Tuition is €0 per year, making it unusually affordable for a private applied university in Germany.
- IELTS 6.0 entry threshold is accessible for CIS students with solid but not exceptional English.
- Graduates earn an EU-recognised degree, valid across all Schengen countries for employment and further study.
- Germany allows international students 120 full days or 240 half days of paid work per year during studies.
- After graduation, Germany grants an 18-month job-seeker visa to find employment matching your qualification.
- Brandenburg's lower cost of living compared to Berlin helps stretch the student budget further.
What to check
- Germany requires proof of funds via a blocked account (Sperrkonto) of around €11,904 — a significant upfront cash commitment.
- Non-EU school leavers without a recognised Abitur equivalent may need a preparatory year (Studienkolleg) before enrolment.
- Daily life and administration in Germany are conducted in German; limited German fluency creates real friction.
- As a private institution, its long-term accreditation status and employer recognition deserve independent verification before applying.
- Brandenburg is a smaller job market; internship and graduate employment options are wider in nearby Berlin but not guaranteed on campus.
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These fields in the country
Tuition and deadlines change with each academic year — the date beside the figures says when we last confirmed them on the official source. Visa rules are set by governments and can change between our checks.
We break down figures like these in the channel — each one with a source and a date. Open the channel