Spiegel article on the IU: Presentation of quality deficiencies relevant to residency law at the IU?

In the IU International University case, Der Spiegel is now also reporting extensively on the controversial distance learning programs . After the TAZ newspaper already described the fates of two Indian students at IU and how they gained access to the private university through expensive placement agencies , became heavily indebted, and ended up in Germany under precarious living and working conditions as couriers and in the restaurant industry, Der Spiegel has now also published a related article about IU.

Key statements from Der Spiegel about the IU

SPIEGEL reports that IU International University has experienced unusually rapid growth in recent years – accompanied by a massive marketing and sales strategy that presents itself more like a start-up than a university . According to SPIEGEL, however, this "hypergrowth" leads to considerable risks: degree programs are sometimes introduced hastily without securing the necessary accreditations, as is the case with the non-professional architecture bachelor's degree or the later discontinued distance learning program for Physician Assistants. Students, the article states, sometimes feel treated more like customers than learners and often start with unrealistic expectations, fueled by intensive advertising campaigns .

As SPIEGEL reports, the rapid growth also appears to be overwhelming IU's internal structures. Students have reported canceled in-person classes, poor accessibility of administrative offices, delayed exam grading, and constantly changing contact persons. Although IU advertises "maximum flexibility" and comprehensive support, SPIEGEL reports that actual experiences are often contradictory. The article thus paints a picture of a university that prioritizes its expansion over academic rigor—with consequences that ultimately fall primarily on the students. The current status of the IU proceedings before the Berlin Administrative Court (VG Berlin) confirms this assessment .

Defense of the IU International University

The Spiegel article, however, is also viewed critically by experts , as it presents a one-sided view that ignores important contextual factors such as system accreditation, improved degree programs, and the special role of international universities for people without traditional university access. While international universities certainly have areas for improvement, they simultaneously fulfill a crucial societal function by providing flexible educational pathways for students who would have little chance in the state system. A LinkedIn post by Prof. Dr. Maria Weege also critically assesses the recent Spiegel article on international universities and explicitly counters the accusation of specifically targeting "poor" high school graduates by emphasizing that grades say little about potential and aptitude. The post advocates for equal opportunities , defends the role of international universities in dismantling educational barriers, and even considers target group-oriented marketing a legitimate contribution to "Education for Everyone."

Legal perspective on the Spiegel article about the IU

From a legal perspective, the SPIEGEL article on IU International University sheds light on structural quality deficiencies that will also be relevant in administrative court proceedings . When students report canceled classes, lack of accessibility, delayed exams, and unclear accreditation of degree programs, this directly touches upon questions of the proper conduct of studies —an aspect that regularly plays a central role in immigration law, particularly in proceedings before the State Office for Immigration (LEA) and the Berlin Administrative Court . Such reports can influence the official and judicial assessment of individual cases, for example, when there are doubts about the seriousness or feasibility of the studies. At the same time, the influence of these allegations on current and future proceedings should not be overestimated. From a legal standpoint, it remains crucial that IU is still a state-accredited university and that its degree programs are, in principle, formally recognized .

Conclusion: Criticism and public opinion on IU International University 2025

The SPIEGEL article on IU International University highlights the tensions between rapid growth, a market-oriented educational strategy, and students' legitimate expectations regarding quality, reliability, and support. The described shortcomings must be taken seriously and can—particularly in the context of migration and residency law—have concrete legal implications if doubts arise about the proper conduct of a course of study . At the same time, the public debate shows that the evaluation of IU must be nuanced: there is a fine line between legitimate criticism and the blanket delegitimization of private educational institutions.

Legally, the crucial point remains that the IU continues to be state-accredited and thus formally recognized as a university. Individual structural deficiencies or media criticism do not replace an individual legal review of each student's course of study. For those affected, this means: Students should neither underestimate the risks that can arise from organizational shortcomings, nor can a general denial of the IU's credibility be assumed from a legal perspective at present. The upcoming administrative court decisions will significantly shape the actual impact these allegations will have on immigration law in the future.

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