Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg
Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg (H-BRS) represents one of Germany's youngest yet most dynamic universities of applied sciences, founded in 1995 and rapidly establishing itself as a leader in practice-oriented higher education. With approximately 9,000 students distributed across three campuses in Sankt Augustin, Rheinbach, and Hennef, the university combines modern facilities with innovative teaching approaches. H-BRS distinguishes itself through its strong international orientation, offering numerous English-taught programs and maintaining partnerships with over 150 universities worldwide. The institution excels in computer science, natural sciences, engineering, and business studies, with particular strengths in applied research collaborations with regional and international industry partners. Its proximity to Bonn, the former German capital and current location of major international organizations including United Nations agencies, creates unique opportunities for students interested in international affairs and sustainable development. The university's relatively young age has fostered an entrepreneurial culture, with strong support for student startups and innovation projects. Modern campus facilities provide state-of-the-art learning environments, including advanced laboratories and collaborative workspaces. H-BRS emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, encouraging students to develop broad skill sets applicable across various professional contexts. The institution's rapid growth reflects its successful model of combining academic excellence with practical relevance.
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Student life at H-BRS is shaped by the multi-campus structure and the practical orientation of the student body. Each campus has its own character and facilities, with the Sankt Augustin location being the largest and most centrally located. Student organizations are active, including the student government that represents student interests and organizes events. Sports, cultural activities, and special interest groups provide opportunities for involvement beyond academics. The international student population has grown, creating a more diverse environment than at many German institutions. Housing near the campuses varies in availability and cost, with many students seeking apartments in the surrounding communities or commuting from Bonn or Cologne. The social scene may be quieter than at large urban universities, but the proximity to Bonn and Cologne provides access to bigger city entertainment and culture when desired. The practical focus of the programs means many students are also working part-time or engaged in internships, which affects the rhythm of campus life. German language ability helps significantly for social integration, even in English-taught programs.
Location & Surroundings
The three H-BRS campuses sit in small cities and towns in the Rhein-Sieg district, a suburban and semi-rural area between Bonn and Cologne. Sankt Augustin, with the main campus, is essentially a suburb of Bonn with about 55,000 residents. Rheinbach and Hennef are smaller communities with their own local character. The region benefits from excellent transportation connections, with trains linking to Bonn and Cologne and the A3 autobahn providing quick car access. Cologne Bonn Airport is just a short distance away. This means students can enjoy the quieter suburban environment while easily reaching major city amenities. Bonn, the former West German capital, offers museums, cultural venues, and the sophistication of a small city with international heritage. Cologne is one of Germany major cities with all the entertainment, nightlife, and opportunities that brings. Living costs in the Rhein-Sieg area are moderate by German standards, lower than Munich or Frankfurt but not cheap. The climate is temperate with mild conditions influenced by the Rhine valley. The surrounding countryside offers hiking, cycling, and outdoor recreation accessible without long travel.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Studying at H-BRS costs relatively little in terms of tuition, reflecting the German model of low or no tuition at public universities. Students pay semester fees that cover administrative costs and public transportation passes, typically a few hundred euros per semester. Living expenses represent the real cost of studying, with housing, food, health insurance, and personal costs adding up to perhaps 800 to 1,000 euros monthly depending on lifestyle. Part-time work is possible and common, with international students allowed to work limited hours during the semester and more during breaks. Career prospects for H-BRS graduates are strong, particularly in technical fields where the practical training and industry connections translate directly to employability. The university career services facilitates connections with employers and internship placements. The location provides access to companies in the Cologne-Bonn region as well as the broader German economy. Many students secure positions before graduation through their internship experiences. International students may pursue careers in Germany if they can navigate visa requirements for post-study work. The degree is recognized across Europe and provides a foundation for careers in engineering, business, and technology fields.
Campus Location
Explore More
See your match score for Hochschule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg
Find out how you compare to admitted students with a personalized admission assessment.
See your match score — Sign up free