Vallendar, Germany (near Koblenz)
WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management was founded in 1984 by the initiative of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Koblenz, who established the private university to address deficits in business education that existed at the time. WHU is now considered one of the most respected business colleges in Germany and enjoys an excellent reputation abroad. WHU aims to achieve 4 things with its students: Practical orientation, internationality, personality development and technological orientation. With a focus on these 4 things, and helped by the small size of the university, WHU students are among the best in Europe and the faculty is open to helping students outside the classroom.
Please note: students are not accepted into the program until they submit their application and deposit to the UF International Center. You can start your online application today!
The City
WHU is located in the small and beautiful hilly town of Vallender, with Koblenz as its closest large city. They are embedded in the picturesque landscape of the Central Rhine Valley UNESCO World Heritage site and surrounded by four low mountain ranges, spotted with vineyards. The abundance of cultural monuments, historic buildings, cozy lanes, narrow alleyways, and the relaxed and happy atmosphere of its squares and river promenades, make Koblenz a friendly town where guests feel right at home. Students typically go out to eat, drink, and shop in Koblenz. Well-known metropolises such as Frankfurt or Cologne are both just a little over one hour away.
Student Life
Students at WHU are very social and active in school-sponsored functions. The environment is ideal for meeting and getting to know many German students. There are various student initiatives such as a theatre group, stock exchange club, rowing club and more that enriches student life at WHU. Exchange students will be given a social buddy and also an academic buddy to help ease into life at WHU!
Term Dates
Fall Semester: Early September to late December
Spring Semester: Early January to late April
Courses Available
WHU offers a variety of business courses for students to choose from. Use our course equivalency database to find out which courses at WHU can apply to your UF degree. Please see an academic advisor for information pertaining to requesting additional equivalencies.
Language of Instruction
Courses are taught in English or German. UF students are able to take a full load of business courses in English. Students can take an intensive German course for credit.
Grade Conversion
| WHU points from | WHU points to | UF grade |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2.5 | A |
| 2.6 | 3.5 | B |
| 3.6 | 4.0 | C |
| 4.1 | 5.5 | D |
| 5.6 | 6.0 | E |
Credit Conversion
| ECTS Credit | UF Credit |
|---|---|
| 3 ECTS credits | 2 UF credits |
| 5 ECTS credits | 3 UF credits |
| 6 ECTS credits | 4 UF credits |
SWS contact hour * 2.25 = ECTS credit (Ex: 2 SWS = 4.5 ECTS)
1 ECTS credit = .6 UF credit (rounded)
Estimated Expenses
| Rough Expense Comparison | Semester at UF | Semester at WHU |
|---|---|---|
| UF Tuition | $3,190 | $3,190 |
| UFIC Admin. Fee | - | $425 |
| Health Insurance | - | $170 |
| Airfare | - | $1,600 |
| Housing / Utilities | $2,995 | $3,000 |
| Computer / Cell Phone | $585 | $250 |
| Food | $2,300 | $1,200 |
| Books | $445 | $300 |
| Transportation | $560 | $300 |
| Visa | - | $141 |
| Total | $10,075 | $10,576 |
- UF Cost of Attendance determined by Office of Student Financial Aid and Scholarships
- WHU Cost of Attendance determined by UF International Center
- WHU estimated living expenses for international students
Accommodation
WHU has a housing coordinator who arranges housing for exchange students. There are various types of dorms and apartments from which you can choose. Most are about a 10-20 minute walk from the university and at least semi-furnished. These university housing options generally are a great place to meet both international and local students. Fully furnished, private apartments are also an option which WHU will help arrange. Students will complete an online housing application and placements are secured on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Travel Opportunities
Getting to Koblenz by taxi or bus takes about 10-15 minutes. The largest and nearest airport hub is Frankfurt, which is about an hour and a half drive. Traveling throughout Germany and Europe by train is easy and convenient, especially for students living near Koblenz. Additionally, several locations around the university also make for great day trips. The towns of Karlsruhe, Heidelberg, Strasbourg and Stuttgart are all nearby, and each provides a unique cultural experience.