Universität Jena - Science Only
One of the 20 oldest universities in Germany, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena (est. 1548) lies in the heart of Jena in central Germany, between Frankfurt and Dresden.
Surrounded by mountains and cut by the Saale River, the university city of Jena has become one of the top economic centres of Eastern Germany. The university itself has a population of about 19,000 students, which makes up nearly 20% of the total population of the city. Universität Jena currently sits in the top 2% of universities worldwide (ranked #326 by QS World Rankings 2019), demonstrating its growth as a burgeoning centre of learning and innovation.
Key information
Program details
The information below was last updated in 2025
Uni Jena offers a wide variety of science programs, including the following science programs: Biology, Cellular, Molecular and Microbial Biology, Computer Science, Chemistry, Geoscience, Physics, Mathematics and Nanoscience. They do offer a selection of courses in English, primarily in the field of Nanoscience and Cellular/Molecular/Microbial Biology.
Most courses at Jena are taught in German. UCalgary students who will be in 4th year or higher of their undergraduate degree at the time of the exchange may be eligible to take Masters-level courses, which has more English instruction available.
View more information about courses online. There is also a quick reference list of English vs German subjects available.
Students at Uni Jena typically take 30 ECTS credits per semester. 6 ECTS credits = 3 UCalgary units (1 half course equivalent)
The exchange agreement with Jena falls under TASSEP. TASSEP is the Trans-Atlantic Science Student Exchange Program, a consortium designed specifically with the curricular needs of science students in mind. Canadian science students have access to a variety of European Partners in the consortium.
The academic year is divided into two semesters. The "Winter" Semester runs from early October to late February/early March and the "Summer" Semester runs from early April to late July/early August.
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Costs
Exchange students pay their tuition and academic fees to the University of Calgary. Other expenses are paid directly to the service provider. Also, remember to include things like visas, insurance, vaccinations, etc. in your budget planning.
This is a helpful link for the cost of living on the Living in Jena page
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Funding
Did you know that you can take your UCalgary funding with you on exchange? Since you remain a degree-seeking student at UCalgary while studying abroad, you remain eligible for any awards and scholarships you are otherwise eligible to receive from the university, as well as student loans.
Our office administers several awards, including the Global Access Fund and the Global Learning Award. Students may only receive these awards once. Please see the funding page, linked below, for more information.
Internal and external Funding opportunities for study abroad in Germany, including DAAD awards, the AGEC award, etc. are available on the funding page.
The Studentenerk Thuringen administers 21 student dorms in Jena, usually in apartment style with single rooms and shared kitchen and bathroom. Prices are set for 6 month periods so even if your stay is shorter, it means your monthly cost will be higher. Rooms are not guaranteed so it is best to apply early. There is also a service package available that includes room, student fees, student activities and lunch on weekdays. Details on housing can be found on the housing page.
This exchange is open to regular, full-time students in the Faculty of Science, who have completed at least 2 full years (4 semesters) at the post-secondary level, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.7 (B-).
TASSEP is the Trans-Atlantic Science Student Exchange Program, a consortium designed specifically with the curricular needs of science students in mind. Canadian students have access to European Partners in the consortium.
Courses at Jena are primarily taught in German. If courses are all taken in English, we still recommended that applicants have completed a minimum of German 204 (or have an A2 level of German) before departing for this exchange. For most courses, applicants should have a command of German at the B2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Language (CEFR) at a minimum, or have completed at least two 300-level or above courses in German. Certification of language proficiency may be required. Students do have the opportunity to take German language courses during their stay.
What's so special about Jena?
A unique feature of Jena is that it actually encompasses 2 city centres - the former town of Lobeda was taken over by the booming city in 1946 and has created an interesting second old town square within city limits as a result. Jena also offers great hikes, affordable living costs, and a great student community and cafe culture.
Do I need to speak German?
For studies in German it is required. In daily life English speakers are able to function fairly well in German society with a basic knowledge of the language for shopping and eating out, etc. but it can be more difficult in terms of navigating housing or filling out forms.
What supports or services are available at Jena?
Jena offers a variety of supports for LGBTQ+ students and staff, as well as for students with disabilities and chronic illnesses.
For information on accessibility and support services of campuses across Europe, please check out Inclusive Mobility. For city-specific services and places in Europe, the Jaccede interactive platform (website and/or smartphone app - both Android and iOS) also provides a searchable user-built database to identify important accessibility information of public places and locations.
Have questions?
The exchange advisor for this program is: Tara Jorgensen
How to Apply
Download the application guide
This PDF contains instructions to complete your application and what to do after you have applied.
Identify three programs of interest
We strongly recommend applying to your top three programs, as placement may be competitive. Your applications will be assessed in the order that you rank (first, second, third choice).
Check requirements and deadlines
These may vary, so check each program web page and make sure you're aware of any differences! Pay attention to the eligibility requirements and whether supporting documents are needed.
Start your application
Once you have gathered everything you need, you can begin your application!
Please note: Applications will not be considered complete until all required documents are submitted in full.
International travel presents challenges that are not found when attending classes on campus. There may be a lack of resources, accessibility issues, or demands on the physical and mental self, which may challenge you when away from your usual support systems and structures. Adequate preparation is essential.
For this reason, it is imperative to evaluate all aspects of your own physical, psychological, emotional, and spiritual condition against the rigours of your desired global program. If you are unsure whether this program is a good fit for you, or if you have any circumstances that could impede your enjoyment and participation, please contact us. Our global experience advisors are happy to assist in finding the best options for you and arranging any supports necessary for your success.
If you have or are seeking a certificate from Student Accessibility Services, you should provide this early to your global experience advisor to ensure that the program you are seeking can support your needs. Additional considerations can be found on our Identities Abroad resources.
Please note: All participants must adhere to COVID-19 and other vaccination-related requirements for the destinations visited on this program. Failure to do so may have consequences such as being denied access to accommodation/housing, program activities, or to the host country itself.