Humboldt University of Berlin - Review

When looking for a PhD position, I looked for the research group with similar interests, its quality and reputation (publications), scientific standing of supervisor in the community, etc. The aspect of university was by a happenstance.

Although the course work was not required to get a PhD degree in my case, my experience through some self-opted courses relevant to my research says that the course syllabuses are very comprehensive and updated.

The admission was facilitated via the direct recommendation of my PhD supervisor who worked as a professor and a faculty member at the Institute of Physics in Humboldt University of Berlin. No tests were required.

Campus placements do not happen in the university and students apply directly to companies. The university name is very well reputed in the industry, therefore the alumni get placed in a variety of high profile companies in various sectors such as tech industry, financial firms and banks, media houses, etc.

I did not apply for any internship.

The education fees in Germany are almost zero. The tution fees per semester were ~350? which included student travel pass for Berlin.

I had no scholarship, but my research was sponsored by Helmholtz Research Center Berlin, where my supervisor used to conduct his research work. My yearly salary was ~25000?/year (Gross).

Approximately, the faculty (including professors, lecturers, assistants) to student ratio is 1:15. The faculty and staff are extremely friendly, approachable and provide immediate help. The university hosts many great names in different areas. I, in particular, was impacted by my supervisor Prof. Joachim Dzubiella, and other exceptional names such as Prof. Jan Plefka, Prof. Igor Sokolov, etc.

The university offers a range of services and facilities to international students through student welcome center. It offers events and workshops both in English and German, and supports completely free of charge. You get a support for your academic and social integration by providing general assistance to make the most of studies, offers advice on your physical and mental well-being, and organizes social networking opportunities. This is done via orientational zoom sessions, intercultural trainings, mentoring, academic and qualification workshops, wellbeing tutorials and cultural and networking events.

The university offers well equipped and hospitable hostel facilities. I used to live in a private apartment in sharing.