The university is becoming increasingly international

"Even though some international students have asked about the current political situation, the attractiveness of Friedrich Schiller University has once again convinced many students from all over the world to come to Jena," says Dr Claudia Hillinger, Head of the University's International Office, referring to the preliminary student statistics at the beginning of lecture period. As there were visa problems in some places, the number could have been even higher. But even so, the proportion of international students has risen to 15 per cent of the university's total of almost 16,500 students in the current winter semester 2024/25 for the first time. At over 3,600, the number of first-semester students is on a par with the previous year. More than a third of them come from Thuringia.

The University of Jena is well positioned in the competition for students

"Competition for the best students is becoming increasingly fierce across Germany," says Prof. Dr Karina Weichold, Vice President for Studies and Teaching. "The fact that the number of first-semester students is on a par with the previous year and that the number of international students has increased proves that Friedrich Schiller University is well positioned in this competition, as research and teaching are of particular importance. We are pleased with our university's offer of professorship as an open-minded institution of higher education with excellent study conditions and outstanding research. We will offer our new students excellent learning conditions from enrolment to successful graduation and provide them with the best possible support during their studies," said the Vice President.

The figures will change over the next few weeks as the enrolment process is still ongoing.