At IU International University of Applied Sciences, we’re redefining education for the digital age. With on-campus programmes taught in English, world-class teaching, and a global outlook, we help students unlock their potential and build careers with purpose.
Our Mission and Vision
At IU, we design our programmes to be career-focused, innovative and flexible—without ever compromising on quality. As a digital learning pioneer, we deliver measurable improvements in student outcomes through cutting-edge technology and application-oriented research.
By combining academic expertise, excellent student support, and a focus on both subject knowledge and transferable skills, we prepare our graduates to succeed in the global business world.
IU's Timeline
Founded with the belief that education should be accessible, flexible, and career-oriented, IU has grown into one of Germany’s largest and most innovative private universities. What started as a small institution has evolved into a global learning community that champions academic quality and practical relevance.
IU is Founded as IUBH
Is established in Bad Honnef, Germany, with a strong focus on hospitality and tourism management, with a mission to provide high-quality, career-oriented education.
Expansion of Programmes
IU expands its academic offering to include business, management, and other in-demand fields—always with a practical, hands-on approach and strong industry links.
Embracing Digital Learning
Recognising the potential of online education early on, IU begins developing digital learning formats and infrastructure to offer greater flexibility for students.
Launch of Online Programmes
IU officially launches fully online degree programmes, making education more accessible to students worldwide. This move marks a turning point in IU's digital transformation.
Growth and Recognition
IU becomes one of Europe’s largest private universities, surpassing 100,000 enrolled students. The university gains national and international recognition for quality, flexibility, and digital innovation.
Re-named for a Global Outlook
The university is renamed IU International University of Applied Sciences, reflecting its international focus and growing global student community.
Syntea Launching
IU's innovates in digital tools for learning developing Syntea, an AI-powered teaching assistant designed to support our students, as it is specifically trained in our course materials.
Importance of In-person Teaching
IU enhances the on-campus experience by increasing in-person classes—while continuing to leverage powerful digital tools to give students the best of both worlds.
Our Offer
Here are some facts and figures that will assure you top-quality education:
130,000+
students from over 190 countries.
25+
years of expertise in higher education.
25+
cutting-edge Bachelor, Master and MBA programmes.
15,000+
business partners
7,000+
international alumni
96%
recommendation rate
Our Campus
Berlin Campus
Launch your career in Europe’s innovation capital: connect directly with Berlin’s thriving tech and start-up scene and gain hands-on experience with future-focused companies.
Join a truly international community, allowing you to build global networks and prepare for a career without borders.
Guided by Industry Experts
Our Advisory Board comprises distinguished leaders from global corporations, innovative start-ups, and renowned academic institutions who provide strategic guidance to ensure our programmes remain at the forefront of education and industry needs.
Meet Our Advisory BoardOur Quality and Top-Level Education Recognitions
IU is a state-accredited university, and our programmes meet rigorous academic standards set by top accreditation bodies. Our commitment to quality is reflected not only in our curriculum but also in our teaching excellence, student support, and digital innovation.
We’ve also been honoured with awards and top rankings for our learning model, student satisfaction, and commitment to continuous improvement.
More about our qualityWhich IU is Right for You? Understanding IU.org and IU.de
Although both IU.org and IU.de are part of IU International University of Applied Sciences, they serve different student needs, so choosing the right one depends on your study goals, language preferences, and career plans.
IU.org - For international students
Location: On-campus studies in Berlin, with 3-4 days of face to face lectures each week.
All programmes are taught in English
Bachelor’s, Master’s, and MBA degrees in fields like business, IT, data, and management, focused on practical skills and employability.
Strong industry links, personalised career support, and eligibility for Germany’s 18-month post-study work visa.
IU.de – For German-speaking students
Programmes are mainly in German, with flexible formats:
Fernstudium (fully online),
myStudium (hybrid), and
Duales Studium (work-integrated). Ideal for those balancing study with work or seeking a broader subject range within Germany.
IU.org is your gateway to an English-taught, on-campus career launch in Germany; IU.de offers flexible, German-language study options for local and bilingual students.
Don’t settle on your education. With IU, you get an award-winning education that’s recognised around the world, all at an affordable price. Join 130,000+ IU students from all over the globe and choose the right programme for you from our degree portfolio.
Discover Bachelor ProgrammesDiscover Master ProgrammesDiscover MBA ProgrammesStronger Together
Our global partnerships are at the heart of what we do. Whether through academic alliances like the IU Oxford Certificate Programme or collaborations with international bodies such as UNESCO and WES, we are committed to providing our students with high-impact learning experiences and worldwide recognition.
We also work hand-in-hand with a growing network of over 400 trusted agents and strategic partners. These collaborations ensure that prospective students around the world can access personalised support, practical tools, and flexible study pathways.
Explore our partnersEmbracing Diversity at IU
“Variety is the very spice of life, That gives it all its flavor.”
William Cowper's poem, “The Task” (1785)
At IU, we believe strongly in equal opportunity for all. The concept of diversity and gender equality is and has always been a core pillar of the organisation and shapes our working and studying culture.
Aside from increasing the number of female students, professors, and lecturers, we do our best to adapt our study options to meet our students’ needs, especially those with disabilities or from under-represented groups – so you can complete your degree without worries.
Need help? Simply reach out to our Student Services Team or our Examination Office Team for assistance.
Award-winning education at IU
Do you have any questions?
Visit our FAQ page or get in touch with our Study Advisors.
