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Facts about IU International University of Applied Sciences
Quality of Teaching
IU is state-recognised and system-accredited until 2033, the longest accreditation period available, confirming that our curricula, examinations, teaching materials, and evaluations meet recognised quality standards. The German Council of Science and Humanities conducts additional institutional accreditation procedures at regular intervals, with findings continuously incorporated into the development of our programmes and organisation.
As a state-recognised university, we award Bachelor's and Master's degrees compliant with official quality standards, with a strong focus on teaching and practical relevance. Research is an integral part of our profile and steadily expanding. In recent years, we have grown very rapidly. This has posed significant organizational challenges. We have specifically refined our internal processes, particularly in quality management and student support.
We support around 130,000 students across different study models. This requires strong organizational structures, which we continuously improve.
Since the end of 2024, we have significantly expanded our quality management system and introduced additional KPIs as well as clear service and processing standards (e.g. response and grading times).
More than 750 professors provide academic and practical expertise. Satisfaction rates are high: 86.4% in distance learning and 88.6% in dual study programs.
A recent study conducted by Kantar Profiles with over 4,000 respondents shows:
94% are satisfied with course content
91% are satisfied with teaching quality
89% would choose the same program again
Among students with previous university experience:
93% rate IU teaching as better
91% rate support as better
94% find assessments fairer
IU combines teaching and research. Our research is application-oriented and focused on transferring knowledge into practice.
Over 1,000 publications in 2025 demonstrate growing visibility and quality.
Visa Situation for International Students in Berlin
In early 2025, the Berlin Immigration Office tightened its requirements. The affected format was “myStudies English (MSE)”.
The authority argued that MSE did not meet full-time study requirements. It was replaced by “Campus Studies English (CSE)” in October 2025. Importantly, teaching quality and accreditation were not questioned.
Students must now prove full tuition payment or secured income.
Introduced CSE as a full-time format
Offered transfer options
Implemented new examination regulations
Covered legal costs in specific cases
Established a dedicated visa support team
Physician Assistant Program
We developed this program as a flexible, part-time qualification for healthcare professionals.
The German Medical Association recommends in-person study formats.
Paused new applications
Initiated dialogue with stakeholders
Ensured current students can complete their studies
Architecture Programs
There were uncertainties regarding eligibility for professional registration.
The Bachelor's program has been reaccredited and meets chamber requirements (for dual study only). Since October 2024, it is officially eligible.
Distance learning programs are not eligible for chamber registration.
IU as a Private University
Being entrepreneurially managed enables flexibility and investment in teaching and infrastructure.
Through a combination of equity and debt capital. Financial stability is regularly confirmed by external partners.
We have strategically shifted toward sustainable growth and operational excellence.
Improvements include:
Clear responsibilities
Investment in quality and systems
Stricter quality checks
Faster processes
Comprehensive quality management
Accessible higher education for diverse life situations.
IU complements traditional universities with practical relevance and agility.