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2019 marks the fourth round of the German Excellence Initiative (now the Excellence Strategy), a programme that aims to promote and support cutting-edge scientific research. But what exactly does the initiative fund, how does it work and why is it important for international scientists?
Contents
What is the German Excellence Initiative?
The German Universities Excellence Initiative (Exzellenzinitiative) was launched in 2005, following negotiations between the federal government and German states. It was designed to strengthen research at German universities and enhance their global appeal. Since its introduction, it has been one of the key factors in attracting international scientists to pursue careers at German universities.
During the first funding phase (2006-2011), €1.9bn was made available to scientists through the Excellence Initiative; during the second funding phase (2012-2017) the funds increased to €2.7bn.
The Excellence Initiative received a great deal of attention in academia and the media, both in Germany and internationally. It has been referred to as ‘the German Ivy League’.
Why is the Excellence Initiative so important for international scientists?
The Excellence Initiative has made Germany the subject of international attention, and scientists across the world are becoming increasingly interested in applying for a job at German Universities of Excellence. The developments in academia over the last decade mean that Germany can now compete on an international level, attracting top scientific talent. Scientists who may not have considered a career in Germany previously are attracted by the substantial funding for research projects and the rise in job opportunities.
With the launch of the next funding phase under the Excellence Strategy, even more international scientists are expected to pursue careers in Germany, especially as universities tend to actively seek scientists from abroad as part of their ‘brain gain’ strategy. In addition, the fact that this round of funding is open-ended means that scientists can expect to be involved in long-term projects, and so build a career and a life in Germany.
The three funding lines
There were three distinct categories that received funding under the Excellence Initiative:
- Clusters of Excellence (Exzellenzcluster)
- Universities of Excellence (Exzellenzuniversität)
- Graduate schools (Graduiertenschulen)
How are Clusters of Excellence and Universities of Excellence chosen?
Clusters of Excellence are outstanding regional research networks of scientists that are focused on a specific scientific topic of international interest. In addition, they offer excellent training and careers for young scientists.
The institute that wishes to become a Cluster of Excellence must submit an application to the German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, DFG), outlining the high quality of their research project and the levels of support for participating scientists. Application is a two-part process; for the funding round in 2019, 195 institutions submitted initial applications, of which 88 were then invited to submit full applications. The final decision is made by the DFG, advised by a panel of 39 experts, including scientists and federal and state science ministers.
Universities of Excellence are elite universities that already hold a leading position internationally. To be awarded the title of ‘University of Excellence’ and obtain funding, the university must make an application to the German Council of Science and Humanities (Wissenschaftsrat, WR).
In order to be considered, it should have two Clusters of Excellence in the same funding period. In addition, the university has to present a detailed profile, including a financial plan and an analysis of its existing strengths and weaknesses. Universities of Excellence are chosen by the Council of Science and Humanities, with the assistance of an expert panel.
The first funding round in 2019 provides funding for up to 11 universities; from 2026, this number can increase to 15. The Excellence Commission will announce the Universities of Excellence on 19 July, with funding beginning on 1 November.
The future of the German Excellence Initiative as the German Excellence Strategy
The Excellence Initiative will continue as the Excellence Strategy (Exzellenzstrategie) from 2019 onwards, with a focus on promoting overall strategies at the Universities of Excellence, strengthening outstanding research projects and increasing visibility in an international context.
While it was originally envisioned as a temporary measure, Germany’s federal government now plans to provide €533m on an annual basis. It will supply 75 per cent of the cost, while the remaining 25 per cent will be covered by the federal state where the university is based. A total of €385m and €148m have been earmarked for the Excellence Clusters and Excellence Universities respectively.
Clusters of Excellence will receive an average of €3m to €10m annually. Universities will also be able to apply for an additional allowance of up to €1m a year in order to strengthen the governance and strategic direction of the university’s management. Universities of Excellence will receive €10m to €15m per year.
Funding for graduate schools will be discontinued in the next phase of the Excellence Initiative. Graduate schools that previously benefitted from the Excellence Initiative will have to seek alternative forms of funding, either publicly or privately, or try to participate as Clusters of Excellence.
The proposed funding for the Excellence Strategy has attracted some criticism, with some academics observing that the funding is relatively low by international standards, as universities such as ETH Zurich, Oxford and Cambridge all have significantly higher budgets. However, the open-ended nature of the German Excellence Strategy means that there is significant long-term potential, with a greater number of universities and research projects likely to benefit.
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Clusters of Excellence
Outstanding research groups were recognised as ‘Clusters of Excellence’ and awarded funding. The following tables display the winners for the first and second rounds of the German Excellence Initiative, as well as the research groups that became Clusters of Excellence in 2019, under the new Excellence Strategy.
In September 2018, 57 Clusters of Excellence were announced, as part of the new Excellence Strategy. Funding began in January 2019.
2019
| City | Cluster of Excellence |
|---|---|
| Aachen | Internet of Production |
| Aachen | The Fuel Science Center - Adaptive Conversion Systems for Renewable Energy and Carbon Sources |
| Bayreuth | Africa Multiple: Reconfiguring African Studies |
| Berlin | Unifying Systems in Catalysis, UniSysCat |
| Berlin | Temporal Communities: Doing Literature in a Global Perspective |
| Berlin | Science of Intelligence |
| Berlin | Matters of Activity. Image Space Material |
| Berlin | NeuroCure - Comprehensive approaches to neurological and psychiatric disorders - from mechanisms to interventions |
| Berlin | MATH+: The Berlin Mathematics Research Center |
| Berlin | Contestations of the Liberal Script (SCRIPTS) |
| Berlin/Münster | Religion and Politics. Dynamics of Tradition and Innovation |
| Bochum | RESOLV (Ruhr Explores Solvation) Understanding and Design of Solvent-Controlled Processes |
| Bochum | Cyber Security in the Age of Large-Scale Adversaries |
| Bonn | PhenoRob - Robotics and Phenotyping for Sustainable Crop Production |
| Bonn | ImmunoSensation2 - the immune sensory system |
| Bonn | Hausdorff Center for Mathematics: Foundations, Models, Applications |
| Bonn | Beyond Slavery and Freedom: Asymmetrical Dependencies in Pre-Modern Societies |
| Bonn/Cologne | ECONtribute: Markets & Public Policy |
| Bremen | The Ocean Floor - Earth's Uncharted Interface |
| Braunschweig/Hannover | PhoenixD: Photonics, Optics, and Engineering - Innovation Across Disciplines |
| Braunschweig/Hannover | Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Aviation – SE²A |
| Braunschweig/Hannover | Light and Matter at the Quantum Frontier: Foundations and Applications in Metrology (QuantumFrontiers) |
| Cologne | Matter and light for quantum computing (ML4Q) |
| Cologne | Cologne Cluster of Excellence on Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-associated diseases (CECAD) |
| Dresden | Physics of Life - The Dynamic Organization of Living Matter |
| Dresden | Centre for Tactile Internet with Human-in-the-Loop (CeTI) |
| Dresden/Würzburg | Complexity and Topology in Quantum Matter: Fundamental Concepts, Materials Design, and Novel Technologies |
| Düsseldorf/Cologne | CEPLAS Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences - SMART Plants for Tomorrow's Needs |
| Freiburg | Living, Adaptive and Energy-autonomous Materials Systems (livMatS) |
| Freiburg | CIBSS Centre for Integrative Biological Signalling Studies - Signalling across Scales: From Mechanistic Understanding to Control-of-Function |
| Frankfurt/Giessen | Cardio-Pulmonary Institute |
| Garching/Munich | ORIGINS: From the Origins of the Universe to the First Building Blocks of Life |
| Garching/Munich | e-conversion |
| Garching/Munich | Munich Center for Quantum Science and Technology |
| Göttingen | Multiscale Bioimaging: from Molecular Machines to Networks of Excitable Cells |
| Hamburg | Understanding Written Artefacts: Material, Interaction and Transmission in Manuscript Cultures |
| Hamburg | Climate, Climatic Change, and Society (CliCCS) |
| Hamburg | Quantum Universe |
| Hamburg | Advanced Imaging of Matter: Structure, Dynamics and Control on the Atomic Scale |
| Hannover | RESIST - Resolving Infection Susceptibility |
| Hannover/Oldenburg | Hearing4all: Medicine, Basic Research and Engineering Solutions for Personalized Hearing Care (H4A 2.0) |
| Heidelberg | STRUCTURES: A unifying approach to emergent phenomena in the physical world, mathematics, and complex data |
| Heidelberg/Karlsruhe | 3D Matter Made to Order (3DMM2O) |
| Jena | Balance of the Microverse |
| Karlsruhe/Ulm | Energy Storage beyond Lithium |
| Kiel | Precision Medicine in Chronic Inflammation |
| Konstanz | The Politics of Inequality: Perceptions, Participation and Policies |
| Konstanz | Centre for the Advanced Study of Collective Behaviour |
| Mainz | Precision Physics, Fundamental Interactions and Structure of Matter (PRISMA+) |
| Munich | Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy) |
| Münster | Mathematics Münster: Dynamics - Geometry - Structure |
| Stuttgart | Integrative Computational Design and Construction for Architecture |
| Stuttgart | Data-Integrated Simulation Science (SimTech) |
| Tübingen | Machine Learning: New Perspectives for Science |
| Tübingen | Controlling Microbes to Fight Infections |
| Tübingen | Image-Guided and Functionally Instructed Tumor Therapies (iFIT) |
© academics
Second round (2012-2017)
| University | Cluster of Excellence |
|---|---|
| RWTH Aachen University | Integrative Production Technology for High-Wage Countries |
| RWTH Aachen University | Tailor-Made Fuels from Biomass |
| Freie Universität Berlin/Humboldt University of Berlin | NeuroCure: Towards a Better Outcome of Neurological Disorders |
| Freie Universität Berlin/Humboldt University of Berlin | Topoi - The Formation and Transformation of Space and Knowledge in Ancient Civilizations |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | Interdisciplinary Laboratory Image Knowledge |
| Berlin Institute of Technology | Unifying Concepts in Catalysis |
| Bielefeld University | Cognitive Interaction Technology |
| Ruhr-University Bochum | RESOLV (Ruhr Explores Solvation) - Understanding and Design of Solvent Dependent Processes |
| University of Bonn | Mathematics: basics, models, applications |
| University of Bonn | ImmunoSensation: The immune sensory system |
| University of Bremen | The Ocean in the Earth System - MARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences |
| Chemnitz University of Technology | Technology fusion for multifunctional lightweight structures - MERGE |
| TU Dresden | Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) |
| TU Dresden | Center for Advancing Electronics Dresden (cfAED |
| Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf/University of Cologne | Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences - from complex properties to synthetic modules |
| University of Erlangen-Nuremberg | New materials and processes - Hierarchical structure formation for functional components |
| Goethe University Frankfurt | Macromolecular complexes |
| Goethe University Frankfurt | The Formation of Normative Orders |
| Goethe University Frankfurt/University Giessen | Cardio-Pulmonary System |
| University of Freiburg | BIOSS Center for Biological Signaling Studies - from analysis to synthesis |
| University of Freiburg | BrainLinks - BrainTools |
| University of Göttingen | Nanoscale microscopy and molecular physiology of the brain |
| University of Hamburg | Integrated climate system analysis and prediction |
| University of Hamburg | Hamburg Centre for Ultrafast Imaging (CUI): Structure, Dynamics and Control of Matter at the Atomic Scale |
| Hannover Medical School | REBIRTH _ From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Energy |
| Heidelberg University | Cellular Networks: From Molecular Mechanisms to a Quantitative Understanding of Complex Function |
| Heidelberg University | Asia and Europe in a Global Context: The Dynamics of Transculturality |
| University of Kiel | The Future Ocean |
| University of Kiel | Inflammation at interfaces |
| University of Cologne | Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-associated Diseases |
| University of Konstanz | Cultural foundations of social integration |
| Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz | Precision Physics, Fundamental Interactions and Structure of Matter |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | Nanosystems Initiative Munich (NIM) |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | Center for integrated Protein Science(CIPSM) |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | Munich-Centre for Advanced Photonics (MAP) |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology |
| Technical University of Munich | Origin and Structure of the Universe - The Cluster of Excellence for Fundamental Physics |
| University of Münster | Religion and Politics. Dynamics of Tradition and Innovation |
| University of Münster | Cells in Motion |
| Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg | Hearing4all |
| Saarland University | Multimodal Computing and Interaction |
| University of Stuttgart | Simulation Technology |
| University of Tübingen | Werner Reichardt Center for Integrative Neurosciences (CIN) |
Source: Wikipedia/Academics.de
© academics
First round (2006 & 2007)
| University | Cluster of Excellence |
|---|---|
| 2006 | |
| RWTH Aachen University | Integrative Production Technology for High-Wage Countries |
| RWTH Aachen University | Ultra-High-Speed Mobile Information and Communication (UMIC) |
| Freie Universität Berlin/Humboldt University of Berlin | Topoi. The Formation ands Transformation of Space and Knowledge in Ancient Civilizations |
| University of Bonn | Mathematics: Foundations, Models, Applications |
| Dresden University of Technology | From Cells to Tissues to Therapies: Engineering the Cellular Basis of Regeneration |
| Dresden University of Technology | Center for Advancing Electronics Dresden (cfaed) |
| Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt am Main | Macromolecular Complexes |
| University of Giessen | Cardio-Pulmonary System |
| University of Göttingen | Microscopy at the Nanometer Range |
| Hannover Medical School | From Regenerative Biology to Reconstructive Therapy |
| Heidelberg University | Cellular Networks: From Analysis of Molecular Mechanisms to a Quantitative Understanding of Complex Functions |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology | Center for Functional Nanostructures |
| University of Kiel | The Future Ocean |
| University of Konstanz | Cultural Foundations of Social Integration |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | Center for Integrated Protein Science Munich |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | Munich Center for Advanced Photonics |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | Nanosystems Initiative Munich |
| Technical University of Munich | Cognition for Technical Systems |
| Technical University of Munich | Origin and Structure of the Universe - The Cluster of Excellence for Fundamental Physics |
| 2007 | |
| RWTH Aachen University | Tailor-Made Fuels from Biomass |
| Freie Universität Berlin | Languages of Emotion |
| Humboldt-Universität Berlin | NeuroCure: Towards a Better Outcome of Neurological Disorders |
| Technical University of Berlin | Unifying Concepts in Catalysis |
| University of Bielefeld | Cognitive Interaction Technology |
| University of Bremen | The Ocean in the Earth System |
| Darmstadt University of Technology | Smart Interfaces: Understanding and Designing Fluid Boundaries |
| University of Erlangen-Nuremberg | Engineering of Advanced Materials - Hierarchical Structure Formation for Functional Devices |
| Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt am Main | Formation of Normative Orders |
| University of Freiburg | Centre for Biological Signalling Studies - From Analysis to Synthesis |
| University of Hamburg | Integrated Climate System Analysis and Prediction (CliSAP) |
| University of Hannover | Centre for Quantum Engineering and Space-Time Research (QUEST) |
| Heidelberg University | Asia and Europe in a Global Context: Shifting Asymmetries in Cultural Flows (EXC270) |
| University of Kiel | Inflammation at Interfaces |
| University of Cologne | Cellular Stress Responses in Aging-Associated Diseases |
| University of Münster | Religion and Politics in Pre-Modern and Modern Cultures |
| Saarland University | Multimodal Computing and Interaction |
| University of Stuttgart | Simulation Technology |
| University of Tübingen | CIN - Centre for Integrative Neuroscience |
Source: Wikipedia/Academics.de
©academics
Universities of Excellence
Universities are recognised as ‘Universities of Excellence’ due to their strategies to promote outstanding research and their ability to compete on an international level.
On 19 July 2019, the Excellence Commission announced the first Universities of Excellence that will be funded under the new Excellence Strategy. Out of 19 applications, ten universities and one university Consortium of Excellence were selected to receive permanent institutional funding as well as the sought-after title as Universities of Excellence.
2019
| University |
|---|
| RWTH Aachen University |
| Berlin University Alliance |
| University of Bonn |
| Technical University of Dresden |
| University of Hamburg |
| Heidelberg University |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) |
| University of Konstanz |
| Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München |
| Technical University of Munich |
| University of Tübingen |
Source: German Research Foundation (Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft, DFG)
© academics
Second round (2012-2017)
| University |
|---|
| RWTH Aachen University |
| Freie Universität Berlin |
| Humboldt-Universität Berlin |
| University of Bremen |
| TU Dresden |
| Heidelberg University |
| University of Cologne |
| University of Konstanz |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich |
| Technical University of Munich |
| University of Tübingen |
Source: Wikipedia/Academics.de
© academics
First round (2006-2011)
| University |
|---|
| RWTH Aachen University |
| Freie Universität Berlin |
| University of Freiburg |
| University of Göttingen |
| Heidelberg University |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology |
| University of Konstanz |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich |
| Technical University of Munich |
Source: Wikipedia/Academics.de
© academics
Graduate schools
In order to qualify for Excellence Initiative funding, graduate schools had to produce excellent research and allow young scientists to excel in their chosen field. The following universities received funding during the first two rounds of funding.
Second round (2012-2017)
| University | Graduate School |
|---|---|
| RWTH Aachen University | Aachen Institute for Advanced Study in Computational Engineering Science |
| Otto-Friedrich University Bamberg | Bamberg Graduate School of Social Sciences |
| University of Bayreuth | Bayreuth International Graduate School of African Studies |
| Freie Universität Berlin | Graduate School of North American Studies (John F. Kennedy-Institute for North American Studies) |
| Freie Universität Berlin | Berlin Graduate School Muslim Cultures and Societies |
| Freie Universität Berlin | Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School of Literary Studies |
| Freie Universität Berlin | Graduate School for East Asian Studies |
| Freie Universität Berlin und Humboldt University of Berlin | Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies |
| Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt University of Berlin | BSIO Berlin School of Integrative Oncology |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | Berlin School of Mind and Brain |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | School of Analytical Sciences Adlershof |
| Berlin Institute of Technology | Berlin Mathematical School |
| Bielefeld University | Bielefeld Graduate School in History and Sociology (BGHS) |
| Ruhr University | Ruhr University Research School Plus |
| University of Bremen | Bremen International Graduate School of Social Sciences (BIGSSS) |
| Technische Universität Darmstadt | Computational Engineering |
| Technische Universität Darmstadt | Darmstadt Graduate School of Excellence Energy Science and Engineering |
| TU Dresden | Dresden International Graduate School for Biomedicine and Bioengineering |
| University of Erlangen-Nuremberg | Graduate School of Advanced Optical Technologies |
| University of Freiburg | Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine (SGBM) |
| University of Giessen | International Graduate Centre for the Study of Culture |
| University of Göttingen | Göttingen Graduate School of Neuroscience, Biophysics and Molecular Biosciences |
| Heidelberg University | Heidelberg Graduate School of Fundamental Physics |
| Heidelberg University | Heidelberg Graduate School of Mathematical and Computational Methods for the Sciences |
| Heidelberg University | Harmut Hoffman-Berling International Graduate School of Molecular and Cellular Biology |
| University of Jena | Jena School for Microbial Communication |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology | Karlsruhe School of Optics and Photonics (KSOP) |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology | Karlsruhe School of Elementary Particle and Astroparticle Physics: Science and Technology (KSETA) |
| University of Kiel | Integrated studies on human development in landscapes |
| University of Cologne | Bonn-Cologne Graduate School for Physics and Astronomy |
| University of Cologne | a.r.t.e.s. Graduate School for the Humanities Cologne (AGSHC) |
| University of Konstanz | Konstanz Research School Chemical Biology |
| University of Konstanz | Graduate School of Decision Sciences |
| Johannes Gutenberg University of Mainz | Materials Science in Mainz |
| University of Mannheim | Graduate School in Economics and Social Sciences: Empirical and Quantitative Methods |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | Graduate School of Quantitative Biosciences Munich (QBM) |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich | Far Worlds: Archeology College Munich |
| Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich and University of Regensburg | Graduate School for East and Southeast European Studies |
| Technical University of Munich | International Graduate School of Science and Engineering (IGSSE) |
| Saarland University | Saarbrücken Graduate School of Computer Science |
| University of Stuttgart | Graduate School for advanced Manufacturing Engineering in Stuttgart (GSaME) |
| University of Tübingen | Graduate School LEAD (Learning, Educational Achievement, and Life Course Development |
| Ulm University | International Graduate School of Molecular Medicine Ulm (IGradU) |
| Julius Maximilian University of Würzburg | Graduate School for Life Sciences |
Source: Wikipedia/Academics.de
© academics
First Round (2006 & 2007)
| University | Graduate School |
|---|---|
| 2006 | |
| RWTH Aachen University | Aachen Institute for Advanced Study in Computational Engineering Science |
| Freie Universität Berlin | Graduate School of North American Studies (John F. Kennedy-Institute for North American Studies) |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | Berlin School of Mind and Brain |
| Technical University Berlin | Berlin Mathematical School |
| Ruhr University Bochum | Ruhr University Research School |
| University of Bonn | Bonn Graduate School of Economics |
| University of Bremen | Global Change in the Marine Realm |
| Dresden University of Technology | Dresden International Graduate School for Biomedicine and Bioengineering |
| University of Erlangen-Nuremberg | Erlangen Graduate School in Advanced Optical Technologies |
| University of Freiburg | Spemann Graduate School of Biology and Medicine |
| University of Giessen | International Graduate Centre for the Study of Culture |
| Hannover Medical School | Hannover Biomedical Research School |
| Heidelberg University | Heidelberg Graduate School of Fundamental Physics |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology | Karlsruhe School of Optics and Photonics |
| University of Mannheim | Empirical and Quantitative Methods in the Economic and Social Sciences |
| Ludwig Maximilian University Munich | Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences |
| Technical University Munich | International Graduate School of Science and Engineering |
| Saarland University | Multimodal Computing and Interaction |
| University of Würzburg | Graduate School for Life Sciences |
| 2007 | |
| University of Bayreuth | Bayreuth International Graduate School of African Studies |
| Freie Universität Berlin | Muslim Cultures and Societies: Unity and Diversity |
| Freie Universität Berlin | Friedrich Schlegel Graduate School of Literary Studies |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | Berlin-Brandenburg School for Regenerative Therapies |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | Berlin Graduate School School of Social Sciences |
| University of Bielefeld | Bielefeld Graduate School in History and Sociology |
| University of Bonn | Bonn-Cologne Graduate School of Physics and Astronomy |
| University of Bremen | Bremen International Graduate School of Social Sciences |
| Darmstadt University of Technology | Graduate School of Computational Engineering 'Beyond Traditional Sciences' |
| University of Göttingen | Göttingen Graduate School for Neurosciences and Molecular Biosciences |
| Heidelberg University | Heidelberg Graduate School of Mathematical and Computational Methods for the Sciences |
| Heidelberg University | The Hartmut Hoffmann-Berling International Graduate School of Molecular and Cellular Biology |
| University of Jena | Jena School of Microbial Communication |
| University of Kiel | Graduate School for Integrated Studies of Human Development in Landscapes |
| University of Konstanz | Konstanz Research School "Chemical Biology" |
| University of Leipzig | Building with Molecules and Nano-Objects |
| University of Lübeck | Graduate School for Computing in Medicine and Life Sciences |
| University of Mainz | Materials Science in Mainz |
| Saarland University | Saarbrücken Graduate School of Computer Science |
| University of Stuttgart | Graduate School for advanced Manufacturing Engineering in Stuttgart (GSaME) |
| University of Ulm | International Graduate School in Molecular Medicine Ulm |
Response to the German Universities Excellence Initiative
Response to the Excellence Initiative has generally been positive; a huge number of universities have benefitted from the funding and have gained more distinct profiles. The increased support for young scientists is also a significant benefit, and has made German universities a more attractive option for researchers across the world. The Excellence Initiative played an important part in attracting more than 4,000 foreign scientists to Germany.
A commission chaired by Dieter Imboden of the Federal Institute of Technology (Eidgenössische Technische Hochschule Zürich, ETH Zürich) was mostly positive. Its report, published in 2016, stated that the Excellence Initiative “has made the German university system more dynamic and has become a tangible symbol for the will to improve the international competitiveness of German universities”. While the Excellent Initiative had not yet reached all its goals, the report said it had set the system “on the right path”.
There has been some criticism of the Excellence Initiative, with claims that the ‘reputation hierarchy’ has remained unchanged, with too much focus placed on professorship appointments and publication in prestigious international journals, which tend to favour basic science over applied science. It could also be argued that the focus on research is too narrow, as excellent teaching and mentorship is equally important.
Nonetheless, the substantial funding and the number of institutions that have benefitted financially mean that on the whole, the impact of the Excellence Initiative has been very positive. It has had a transformative effect on many university research projects, and the future looks even brighter.
Authors
Alexandra Turney
Source
academics - July 2019
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FAQs
What is the Excellence Initiative of the German? ›
The Excellence Initiative of the German Council of Science and Humanities and the German Research Foundation (DFG) aims to promote cutting-edge research and to create outstanding conditions for young scholars at universities, to deepen cooperation between disciplines and institutions, to strengthen international ...
Is B2 enough to study in Germany? ›You will need an official language certificate from a recognised language centre, such as the Goethe-Institut or a telc-certified institute. Depending on the German federal state, level B1 or B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) is required.
How much GPA is required for MS in Germany? ›The minimum CGPA required to do an MS in Germany is 7 or 70%. However, if you want to get admission to a world-class university, you need the best score in IELTS, and your CGPA must be around 8.5.
What GPA is required for German universities? ›The minimum grade requirements in German universities may vary depending on the courses, universities etc. However, the minimum grade required for a middle profile course is GPA 2.5, GPA 1.5 for high profile study programs and there are no specific requirements for low profile courses.
What is the Harvard of Germany? ›The University of Mannheim is also called 'the Harvard of Germany' for its excellent reputation in business and economics. Mannheim is a city located 70 km south of Frankfurt, in the Bundesland (state) Baden-Württemberg.
What is the German education system known for? ›Overall, Germany is one of the best performing OECD countries in reading literacy, mathematics and sciences with the average student scoring 515 in the PISA Assessment Test, well above the OECD average of 497 points.
Is B2 German fluent? ›Is B2 German Considered Fluent? It's generally considered that reaching B2 is having basic fluency. You'll have a vocabulary of about 4000 words.
What level of German is fluent? ›How many German language levels are there? The German language has 6 CEFR levels – starting with A1 (absolute beginner), and ending with C2 (completely fluent).
Can you get B2 German in 3 months? ›B2 also takes around 3 months if you spend around 8 hours a week. P.S.: There are some people who are good at learning languages and remembering stuff who finished it all in 3-4 months. It all depends on how easy this comes to you and how much time you're spending on it.
What is a 4.0 GPA in Germany? ›| Grade | Scale | Grade Description |
|---|---|---|
| 3- | 3.30 - 3.69 | Satisfactory (Befriedigend) |
| 4+ | 3.70 - 3.99 | Sufficient (Ausreichend) |
| 4 | 4.00 - 4.29 | Sufficient (Ausreichend) |
| 4- | 4.30 - 4.69 | Poor (Mangelhaft) |
Which master's degree is most in demand in Germany? ›
- Medicine and Dentistry.
- Law.
- Industrial Engineering.
- Engineering.
- Mathematics and Computer Science.
- Natural Sciences.
- Business and economics.
- Architecture.
German universities (except for law schools) grade with a scale of 1 to 5: 1.0–1.5 sehr gut (very good: an outstanding achievement) 1.6–2.5 gut (good: an achievement which lies substantially above average requirements) 2.6–3.5 befriedigend (satisfactory: an achievement which corresponds to average requirements)
Can you get into Harvard as a German? ›We welcome applications from all over the world. Our admissions and financial aid processes are the same for all applicants - regardless of nationality or citizenship.
What's the easiest German university to get admission to? ›Some of the easiest German universities to get into include – Heidelberg University, the University of Bonn, the University of Freiburg, and the University of Berlin.
What is a 3.9 GPA in Germany? ›| CGPA (Best: 4.0, Worst: 2.0) | German Grading System (Best: 1.0, Worst:5.0) |
|---|---|
| 4.0 | 1.0 (Very Good) |
| 3.9 | 1.15 (Very Good) |
| 3.8 | 1.30 (Very Good) |
| 3.7 | 1.45 (Very Good) |
MIT is one of the world's leading universities in the areas of science, technology, economics, management, and social sciences. The MIT name is synonymous with maintaining the highest levels of teaching and research.
Are German universities prestigious? ›In total, 50 universities in Germany are counted among the very best in the world. More than 500 degrees (bachelor's and master's programmes) are taught in English at top German universities. Whatever subject you are interested in, you can study that degree in English in Germany.
Why are German universities the best? ›German universities provide academic programs, while universities of applied sciences offer a range of attractive, practice-oriented opportunities. The study programs are a perfect blend of theory and practical aspects of a subject. This will greatly facilitate your career and let you get the best of opportunities.
How is German school system different from American? ›The biggest difference between the American school system and German school system are the grades. Germany doesn't have the major and daily grades system, or final exams and the end of the semester. And they don't have multiple choice tests.
How long is school day in Germany? ›The School Day
Classes normally start between 7:30 and 8:15 a.m. and can end between 12 noon and 1:30 p.m. Class periods are normally 45 minutes long with a short break in between.
What curriculum does Germany use? ›
The gymnasium curriculum is highly academic, requiring two foreign languages and offering high-level mathematics and science courses. The realschule curriculum is also academic, though less demanding than that of the gymnasium; only one foreign language (usually English or French) is required.
Can I reach B2 German with Duolingo? ›Whether you're a total beginner or you're looking to brush up, Duolingo's German course is definitely one of the best options currently available. The course is now hitting the same heights as the French and Spanish courses — which Duolingo reckon can get you to a B2 level on the CEFR.
Can I learn B2 German in 1 year? ›Even though most of them learn relatively fast and achieve B1/B2 level in about 12 months, just a few of them get to B2 level in 4-8 months.
How long does it take to go from B2 to C1 in German? ›| Assess your current level & test your German online! | Super Intensive course (30 lessons/week) | |
|---|---|---|
| B1 | intermediate | 6 weeks |
| B2 | upper intermediate | 6 weeks* |
| C1 | advanced | 6 weeks* |
| C2 | highly competent | individual |
- A1 (Lower Beginner) ...
- A2 (Upper Beginner) ...
- B1 (Lower Intermediate) ...
- B2 (Upper Intermediate) ...
- C1 (Lower Advanced) ...
- C2 (Upper Advanced/Fluent) ...
- Goethe-Zertifikat. ...
- Goethe-Test PRO.
You would on an average need 7-9 months to reach at B2 level and get good rating or they call it “Noten” . The real catch is how intensive are those months. How many hours you are putting every day, how much you are speaking, reading and writing.
Is German harder or Spanish? ›Overall, Spanish might be easier than German at the beginning stages, but the two tend to even out in difficulty once learners get to the more advanced stages. German has more complicated grammar rules that need to be mastered early on, but once learners get familiar with them, they find that they're pretty consistent.
How difficult is B2 German? ›Reaching B2 is generally considered by most people as having basic fluency. You'll have a working vocabulary of around 4000 words. It's not always effortless and it's not always perfect, but neither you nor your native speaking partners are having a really hard time in most circumstances at this point.
How many words should I know for German B2? ›However, if you wish to take German B2 test, you should know around 4000 German words. To reach B2 in German, first of all you need a German language app, functional grammar which you while conversations and lay some strict daily goals.
Can I learn B1 German in 1 year? ›They say that you need to have completed at least 350 45-minute German lessons/practice sessions to reach B1, which would take roughly a year and a half since most people can't take a lesson every single day in a row.
Is a 7.8 GPA good? ›
But a GPA of 6.96 ~ 7 is Okay-ish. Average. 9-10 is brilliant. 8-9 is about average and very good.
What is 70 percent in German GPA? ›The minimum percentage for a graduate to achieve is 50%. So, if you were an average student in such colleges, your CGPA/ Percentage could be 7.0 or 70%. Using German Grade Conversion, if your GPA on the German scale would be 2.80.
Is 1.8 GPA good in Germany? ›(1.7 to 2.3) – good, seen as a relatively good result (A- to B)
Which is better for Masters USA or Germany? ›Top Universities to Study in USA vs Germany
The first thing that comes to the mind of an international student while comparing education in Germany vs USA is the university ranking. In a comparison between rankings of universities in USA vs Germany, it is quite evident that US universities perform better in rankings.
- Researchers in Biotechnology and Neuroscience. Researchers in biotechnology and neuroscience are among the highest paying jobs in Germany. ...
- Surgeons & Doctors. ...
- Engineering professions. ...
- Sales managers. ...
- Financial sector jobs. ...
- SAP HR Consultant. ...
- Tax Advisor. ...
- Actuary.
Both the USA and Germany are countries where you will enter a world full of job opportunities once you enter the professional world. But if you wish to do a comparison of USA vs Germany, then the USA is better in this aspect.
What is the highest GPA ever in the world? ›A GPA higher than 5.0 is rare, but school point systems are occasionally structured so that students taking advanced classes can rack up bonus points. One student even managed to land a stunning 10.03 GPA by taking 17 advanced classes at a school that awarded bonus points.
What country has the highest GPA? ›While the highest GPA is 4.00 in US, it is 4.5 in Korea, 10 in Vietnam and 13 in Denmark, indicating that the same letter grades not only have different values in different nations but there are also different scale lengths as well.
How long is master degree in Germany? ›Most master's in Germany take four semesters (two years) to complete, though some are shorter or longer.
Does Harvard prefer AP or IB? ›Does Harvard prefer IB or AP courses? Harvard does not explicitly state a preference for IB or AP courses. To receive credit for IB classes, accepted students must earn an IB diploma. Incoming students must earn a score of 5 on at least four AP exams to earn college credit at Harvard.
Are German degrees recognized in USA? ›
Do German degrees transfer to America? Yes. If you have a degree from Germany (or virtually anywhere else), it will be recognized in the US.
Do German universities accept Americans? ›The US students who want to study in Germany must apply for a temporary residence permit. First, you must register your address of residence in Germany and collect the required funds to cover the cost of living and studying if you haven't yet. Once you do that you're ready to apply.
Can I study in Germany if I don't speak German? ›Yes! In Germany you will find excellent studies which are run in English language fully. Applicants from any country may apply for these studies. There are studies with fees, studies free of fees, and scholarships available.
Do Foreigners Get Free university in Germany? ›Everyone can study in Germany tuition-free!
That's right: Germans, Europeans, and all non-Europeans can study in Germany free of charge - without tuition fees. It does not matter if you are from the EU or EEA. This applies to almost all study programmes at public universities.
Generally, you should be able to get by with little to no German. However, we encourage students looking to come to Germany, to explore some free online German language courses to have some basics in German. Depending on the city you are planning to study in, you may need more German skills.
Will Harvard accept a 3.9 GPA? ›With a 3.75 to 3.99 GPA, you have a decent chance of success. A GPA between 3.50 to 3.74 makes Harvard a reach school. GPAs between 2.50 to 3.49 gives you an extremely low chance of success. Anything below 2.50 means you will most likely not be accepted.
What grade is a 16 year old in Germany? ›The secondary school system in Germany
There is the lower phase (sekundarstufe I), which in most states takes place between ages 10 and 15/16 (or from grades 5 to 9/10). This is compulsory for all students. The upper phase (sekundarstufe II) continues until students are 18 and is optional.
1 to 1.5 – Very good. You have successfully completed a major part of your exam, but there are some minor areas you must improve. 1.6 to 2.5 – Good.
Is B2 level good enough? ›Reaching B2 is generally considered by most people as having basic fluency. You'll have a working vocabulary of around 4000 words. It's not always effortless and it's not always perfect, but neither you nor your native speaking partners are having a really hard time in most circumstances at this point.
What level is B2 German? ›The Goethe-Zertifikat B2 is a German exam for young people and adults. It certifies that candidates have acquired advanced language skills and corresponds to the fourth level (B2) of the six-level scale of competence laid down in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Is B2 level English enough for university? ›
What level of English is needed to study at a university in the United States? If you want to study at a university in the United States, you must obtain a visa, which will depend, in part, on being able to communicate in the language with a minimum level of English of B2 .
Is B2 English level good for international students? ›A B2 level of English would allow you to function in the workplace in English, and indeed, many non-native English speakers in international workplaces have this level of English.
Is B2 exam hard? ›DELF B2 is not hard but if you want to succeed you have to use the right structure, and grammar point at the right moment. This exam is very straight and demanding. Actually, it's good because you have to get better if you want to take it. That's something everyone can achieve with a bit of work.
Is B2 fluent or intermediate? ›B2 | Upper Intermediate
At the B2 CEFR level, a language learner can: Understand the main ideas of a complex text such as a technical piece related to their field.
However, if you wish to take German B2 test, you should know around 4000 German words. To reach B2 in German, first of all you need a German language app, functional grammar which you while conversations and lay some strict daily goals.
Is Duolingo German B2? ›Whether you're a total beginner or you're looking to brush up, Duolingo's German course is definitely one of the best options currently available. The course is now hitting the same heights as the French and Spanish courses — which Duolingo reckon can get you to a B2 level on the CEFR.
How long does it take to go from A1 to B2 German? ›| Assess your current level & test your German online! | Super Intensive course (30 lessons/week) | |
|---|---|---|
| A1 | beginner | 6 weeks |
| A2 | elementary | 6 weeks |
| B1 | intermediate | 6 weeks |
| B2 | upper intermediate | 6 weeks* |
At Duolingo, we're developing our courses to get you to a level called B2, at which you can get a job in the language you're studying. Reaching that kind of proficiency requires dedication, varied practice opportunities, and a lot of time.
How long does it take to learn English from B2 to C1? ›A higher level of fluency – top B2 (upper intermediate) into C1 (advanced/operational proficiency) (ILR 2+ to 3+) is said to take 550 to 900 hours.
Who is better B1 or B2? ›
Generally speaking, a B1 visa is for business-related projects, while a B2 visa is for tourism and pleasure-travel. The government can also issue a B1/B2 visa to business travelers who plan to travel within the US for tourist activities during their stay in the United States.
Is B2 enough to study in USA? ›Yes. Many American colleges and universities accept B2 First, C1 Advanced and C2 Proficiency as proof that you have the right level of English to study one of their courses.
What can a B2 speaker do? ›Level B2 corresponds to a more advanced, more independent level than previous levels. A B2 user can communicate easily and spontaneously in a clear and detailed manner. This is not yet an experienced speaker, but a B2 user is able to understand and be understood in most situations.