- Founded
- 2017
- Students
- 600
- Programmes
- 6
- Taught in English
- 6
About CODE University of Applied Sciences
CODE University of Applied Sciences is a state-recognised private university of applied sciences in Berlin, founded in 2017 by tech entrepreneurs including Thomas Bachem and Manuel Dolderer. It operates under the legal entity CODE Education GmbH and is supervised by the Berlin Senate Chancellery for Science and Research.
The university focuses exclusively on the intersection of technology, design, and entrepreneurship. It offers three bachelor's programmes (Software Engineering, Business Management & Entrepreneurship, Digital Design & Innovation) and two master's programmes (Technology & Management, Innovation Design). Teaching is entirely in English and the curriculum is project-based and practice-oriented, with students expected to drive their own learning.
CODE enrolls over 600 students from more than 80 countries and has established partnerships with companies including Porsche, Telekom, and SAP, as well as academic institutions such as Stanford and NTNU. Since its founding, CODE students and alumni have co-founded more than 60 companies.
Private, state-recognised university of applied sciences founded in 2017 by tech entrepreneurs
All programmes taught entirely in English - no German language requirement for study
Project-based, student-driven curriculum integrating technology, design, and entrepreneurship
Students from 80+ countries; strong international community
60+ companies co-founded by CODE students and alumni since 2017
Rolling admissions with flexible tuition payment models including interest-free instalment plan
Key facts
- Type
- Fachhochschulen / HAW
- Founded
- 2017
- Students
- 600
- International
- Students from 80+ countries
- Programmes
- 6
Study programmes
6 accredited degrees at CODE University of Applied Sciences, 6 of them taught in English.
Showing 1–6 of 6 programmes
Admissions & fees
What it costs
CODE is a private university; tuition is charged to all students regardless of nationality - there is no tuition-free status. Two main payment models: 'Pay Directly' at €1,250/month for 36 months (3 years), with discounts for upfront or annual payment; or 'Stretch Pay' at €650/month over 6 years (3 years during studies + 3 years after), interest-free. No separate non-EU surcharge. BAföG (German state support) is available for eligible German and some EU students. KfW student loans (€100-€650/month) available for ages 18-44. 72% of CODE students work by semester three. Semester contribution (Semesterbeitrag) amount is not published on the official site.
Admission requirements
Applicants must hold a higher education entrance qualification recognised in Germany (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung or equivalent). International students should verify their qualification's eligibility via the DAAD database or contact admissions. English proficiency at B2 level minimum is required; CODE accepts standard certificates. APS certificates (required for applicants from India, China, or Vietnam) are not explicitly referenced on the CODE site - applicants from those countries should check APS requirements independently before applying. Admission is based on demonstrated curiosity and growth mindset rather than grades alone; all applicants go through the same evaluation process. Rolling admissions: applications are accepted year-round. Applicants needing a visa should allow up to three months for visa processing.
Application deadlines
Rolling admissions year-round. Applications for Fall 2026 intake have a deadline of 30 June 2026. International students requiring a German student visa should apply as early as possible to allow up to three months for visa processing.
How international applicants apply
Direct application - uni-assist is not used. Candidates register and apply through CODE's own portal (code.berlin/apply); admission assesses motivation and potential rather than grades. No proof of German proficiency required; contact [email protected]. Non-EU applicants should plan up to three months for the visa process.
Languages of instruction
English only. All programmes, teaching, and campus communication are conducted in English.
Entry requirements, intake dates and language levels differ for every degree.
Scholarships at CODE University of Applied Sciences
1 scheme run or administered by the university. Always confirm current amounts and deadlines on the official page.
Campuses & locations
Donaustr. 44, 12043 Berlin. Main and only campus, relocated to this purpose-built building in August 2024.
Living in Berlin
Berlin is Germany's capital and largest city, widely regarded as a hub for technology start-ups, creative industries, and international talent. The CODE campus is located in Neukölln, a diverse and culturally active inner-city district. Berlin's cost of living is lower than Munich or Frankfurt but rising; CODE recommends budgeting at least €1,200/month for housing and living expenses.
Student life & support
CODE fosters a strongly entrepreneurial campus culture. Students from over 80 nations study together in English, and a buddy programme supports incoming international students. The project-based curriculum means students collaborate on real products from day one. Over 60 companies have been founded by CODE students and alumni. The campus is located in Berlin-Neukölln, giving students access to Berlin's extensive start-up ecosystem, cultural life, and public transport network.
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