Diverse. Inclusive. Creative.
Shape the cities of tomorrow – with an architecture degree from an international university
that offers creative freedom and meets the standards of the Architects’ Chamber.
Become an architect at one of Germany's top international universities! The BA Architecture program at Berlin International, taught entirely in English, prepares you for a global career with a focus on sustainable, innovative, and functional design. Rooted in Berlin’s creative scene, it combines hands-on learning with insights into technology, culture, and social contexts.
Berlin International is the only private German university offering an English-taught program that meets Chamber of Architects' requirements, enabling graduates to earn the protected title of "Architect."
At Berlin International, we prioritize a student-centered, hands-on learning experience. Our teaching approach is built around project-based learning, where students collaborate in teams and work on real-world challenges to foster both professional and personal growth. With all programs taught entirely in English, and a diverse academic community from over 93 countries, we offer a uniquely international environment that prepares you for success in the global marketplace.
As an architect, a wide range of career opportunities await you. Upon graduation, you’ll be able to work on the design and transformation of buildings in various scales and typologies. The field goes beyond architecture – architects are highly sought after in the arts and creative industries, as well as in cultural institutions and the construction industry.
Potential professional environments:
German students and certain international students who have lived in Germany for several years can apply for BAföG, a government-backed loan that only partially requires repayment. For eligibility and application details, visit the BAföG Information Pages.
Non-German citizens may be eligible for financial support from their home countries. Countries like Denmark, Sweden, and the Netherlands offer aid for students studying abroad. The Student Affairs team can help with required forms.
The DAKA Berlin, a non-profit credit union, provides additional funding for students regardless of age, income, or nationality. Learn more about DAKA.
General scholarships are available, and we can provide a list of useful websites to aid your search.
Students can work part-time while studying. Those with student visas must adhere to work restrictions (usually 140 full days or 280 half days per year). Berlin International also offers part-time positions on campus.
In a supportive and practice-driven environment, internationally experienced lecturers will guide you in discovering your talents and shaping your career as an architect.
First Year: Build foundational skills in design, construction, and architectural history.
Second Year: Deepen knowledge in construction, materials, and design theory.
Third Year: Collaborate on interdisciplinary projects for real clients and explore building law and physics.
Final Year: Prepare for your career with specialized courses and complete a bachelor thesis and design project of your choice.
You will complete your application electronically through our online portal. You will first register, then enter your personal details, and finally upload the required documents. These are:
- Passport
- Official Senior High School diploma with transcript (German Abitur / Fachabitur or equivalent)
- Official University certificates and transcript of grades - if applicable
- English Language Test (CEFR level B2 or above)
- Portfolio with a minimum of 10 works
- Certification of the Academic Evaluation Center (APS) - for educational qualifications from China, India and Vietnam only
If you are still waiting for your final documents to be issued, then please submit your most recent transcript of grades as well as a statement of your predicted qualification and grades. This will allow us to process your application on a conditional basis. You will need to provide the official final certificate and transcripts when you receive them.
Start into Fall Semester 2025-26:
New students may only start in the fall semester. Transfers into a higher academic semester may be possible in the spring semester, depending on the compatibility of previous studies with our curriculum. Berlin International offers courses on an annual basis.
To view all dates within the academic year, please see the Academic Calendar.
All programs are fully taught in English; therefore, proof of English language proficiency is required. German knowledge is not necessary.
If your English proficiency is at CEFR Level B2 or above, you may submit one of the following valid test scores:
Scores must have been earned within the last two years.
If you have not completed high school in a majority-English speaking country (USA, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand) or a bachelor's degree fully in English, an approved language exam is required for admission.
If you do not yet meet CEFR Level B2, but fulfill other admission criteria, you can enroll in our English Preparatory School. This 1-year intensive program will help you achieve the necessary language skills before starting your degree.
To qualify for our Bachelor’s programs, applicants need the German Abitur/Fachabitur or an equivalent qualification. Foreign qualifications must meet German standards, which vary by country. Common requirements are outlined here:
For more details on admission standards, consult the DAAD database or the Kulturministerkonferenz website (German).
If your current qualifications don't meet German standards, you may need a preparatory course. There are two main options:
Note: Admission is only possible for applicants who meet these requirements. Selection depends on faculty review and seat availability.
About us
At BI, you’ll learn in an international community of students from over 93 countries—preparing you for a global future.
in Architecture, Interior Design, Graphic Design & Business Administration
in Interior Design & Business Administration
Student Stories
Discover what makes BI special—straight from our students. From inspiring lectures to life in a diverse, international community—our students share their BI journey.
There are so many different cultures and stories at BI that makes it a fascinating community. Because our professors and lecturers are from all over the globe, we get all these different inputs and architectural ideas that will help us in our future careers.
It is amazing how international my classmates are. We all have diverse backgrounds and experiences but are united by sharing the same passion for graphic design. This diversity brings a fresh perspective to my studies and my personal life.
My advice to the future students of BI is to take a chance and don’t miss the opportunity to be in a multicultural environment at a university that will help chart the path towards your future self.
Berlin International has a unique and supportive community consisting of both international staff and students. The teachers here give constructive feedback and value each student's contribution.
BI has pushed me to challenge myself in a safe space. I believe this is a positive environment with incredible teachers, staff, and peers who are always willing to help and want to see you succeed.
The cultural diversity of BI naturally broadens the horizons of every student. Being with people who think differently automatically shifts your perspective and improves your thinking methodology.
The reason I chose BI is the MBA curriculum. It not only includes the major management fundamentals but also offers subjects in Data Analytics and Digital Business Management, which are the new norms of the business world.
BI has a very diverse student body, representative of the global population, that is academically and personally enriching. I am impressed by the various backgrounds of the instructors and professors. I’m also impressed by the university's prime location in the center of continental Europe.
different nationalities are studying and teaching at Berlin International
of our students are international and from four continents
of our faculty have international university experience
personal contact to professors and lecturers