»Æ¹ÏÊÓƵֱ²¥

»Æ¹ÏÊÓƵֱ²¥ comes with its own set of requirements.

If you’ve found that your qualifications fall short, you might have come across Studienkollegs. They’re like prep classes that help you get ready for college in Germany.

Before we explain all about Studienkollegs, check your eligibility for studying in Germany using this or the if you haven’t already done so.

If you don’t meet all the requirements, you may be eligible for Studienkolleg and the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) as alternatives.

What is Studienkolleg (Preparatory Course)?

In Germany, Studienkolleg refers to both institutions (preparatory schools) and the courses they offer (preparatory courses).

Studienkollegs are one-year preparatory programs that help international students get ready for university studies. They provide subject-specific and language training to bridge educational gaps and prepare students for the Feststellungsprüfung (university qualification exam).

Who Should Attend a Studienkolleg?

If you’re an international student with qualifications that don’t match the direct entry requirements for German universities, a Studienkolleg is the perfect next step for you.

Studienkollegs cater to students who may not be equivalent to the German Abitur or don’t fulfill the specific entry criteria for their desired degree program.

Studienkolleg Types

There are two types of Studienkollegs to cater to different academic pathways:

• Studienkollegs affiliated with a University (Universität)
• Studienkollegs affiliated with a University of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschule)

Graduates of a Studienkolleg program tailored for university studies can apply to all types of higher education institutions, while those from Studienkollegs affiliated with universities of applied sciences are generally eligible only for admission to universities of applied sciences.

Focus Courses at Studienkollegs

Focus courses (Schwerpunkt-Kurse) at the Studienkolleg are specialized programs that help you get ready for your desired academic disciplines.

The courses offered differ between Studienkollegs affiliated with universities and those affiliated with universities of applied sciences.

Studienkollegs affiliated with universities offer these types of focus courses:

Course	Subject Area
G	Humanities and foreign language programs
S	Linguistic programs
W	Social and economic sciences programs
T	Natural science, technical, scientific, and mathematical programs
M	Medical and biological programs

Studienkollegs at universities of applied sciences offer the following courses:

Course	Subject Area
TI	Technical and engineering programs
WW	Economics programs
GD	Artistic programs
SW	Social sciences programs

Public vs Private Studienkolleg

When considering Studienkollegs in Germany, it’s also important to distinguish between public and private ones.

Public Studienkollegs are institutions funded by the government or state authorities, offering tuition-free preparatory courses for university studies. They provide state-recognized degrees and certificates that are widely accepted throughout Germany.

On the other hand, private Studienkollegs often charge tuition fees for their programs and may have varying levels of recognition for their certificates. While some private Studienkollegs offer flexible admission criteria, not all may have the same recognition as state-run institutions.

To see the complete list of nationwide preparatory schools and their recognition status, . (German)

Who Decides Which Type of Preparatory Course I Must Take?

The decision on which type of preparatory course you must take is made by the university you’re applying to. The international office at your chosen higher education institution can assist you in finding the appropriate Studienkolleg course tailored to your needs and goals.

How Much Does Studienkolleg Cost?

The cost of preparatory courses in Germany varies:

• Public Studienkollegs. Tuition-free, but you may need to pay administrative and semester fees, typically ranging from €100 to €400 per semester.
• Private Studienkollegs. More expensive, with tuition fees often between €5,000 to €8,000.

Here are some Studienkollegs and their associated costs:

Institution	Type	Cost
Studienkolleg Hamburg	Public	University semester fee (e.g. University of Hamburg €332)
Studienkolleg (STK) – TU Darmstadt	Public	University semester fee (e.g. Technical University of Darmstadt €368.18)
TUDIAS Studienkolleg	Private	€7,300
Studienkolleg Paderborn	Private	€7,000

How to Apply for a Studienkolleg in Germany?

Here are the steps you need to take to apply for a spot in a Studienkolleg:

Check if Your Previous Qualification Is Recognized in Germany

Before applying to a Studienkolleg in Germany, verify if your previous academic qualifications are recognized. Consult resources like the DAAD entrance qualification database or Anabin for information on the recognition of foreign secondary school-leaving certificates.

If your qualification doesn’t qualify you for direct admission to a German university but makes you eligible for Studienkolleg, then you can proceed with the application process.

Shortlist Universities You Want to Apply To

Next, you will have to shortlist the universities you wish to apply to. While applying to multiple universities is an option, it’s essential to narrow down choices to determine the appropriate Studienkolleg.

Some universities have their preparatory programs and may forward your application if needed, while others only accept students from specific Studienkollegs. For instance, the University of Stuttgart redirects students to Studienkollegs at KIT or Heidelberg University.

Review the Application Method

Depending on your chosen university and Studienkolleg, you will have to undergo one of the three application forms:

1. Directly Applying to a University Program

Some universities, like Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU), require applicants to apply for a study program (through ) before being considered for the Studienkolleg.

Once accepted to the university, you’ll receive an invitation to the preparatory course entrance examination at Studienkolleg München. If you are successful, you can enroll in a one-year preparatory course at either of the two Munich universities.

2. Applying Through Uni-assist

Uni-assist is a centralized organization in Germany that assists international students with university applications. Before applying, if your desired university accepts applications through uni-assist.

If so, you can use the My Assist platform to apply for a course. During the application process, you’ll be asked if you’re applying for admission to a Studienkolleg. If not asked, uni-assist will handle your application for the Studienkolleg automatically.

3. Directly Applying to the Studienkolleg

Some Studienkollegs, usually privately run, accept applications directly. For instance, Studienkolleg Mettingen requires you to fill out an application form and email it along with the required documents.

Gather Documents and Send Your Application

To apply for the Studienkolleg, you need to gather and submit several documents. These typically include:

• Application form as specified by your desired university or Studienkolleg
• Proof (copy) of university entrance qualification (school-leaving certificate)
• Transcripts (copies) from previous education
• Proof of German proficiency at B2 level according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (some Studienkollegs accept level B1) or 500‒800 hours of instruction. Some commonly accepted qualifications for B2 level German are:
  • DSH-1
  • TestDaF level 3
  • Graded B2 certificate
  • Certificate of participation for a C1 course (in progress or completed)
• Copy of your passport or national ID
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• APS certificate (For Indian, Chinese, and Vietnamese applicants)

Please submit all documents in their original language along with a certified translation (German or English) if necessary.

Remember:

You also have to be mindful of application deadlines when gathering your documents. Studienkolleg deadlines are usually earlier than university study deadlines.

The deadlines for the summer semester range from mid-November to January, and for the winter semester, they span from mid-March to mid-July.

Check with your university or Studienkolleg for the most accurate information.

Take the Entrance Examination (Aufnahmeprüfung)

The “Aufnahmeprüfung,” or entrance exam, is a crucial step for gaining admission to a Studienkolleg. Once you’ve received an invitation, you will have to undergo this exam, which is entirely conducted in German. Most Studienkollegs require in-person attendance for the exam.

The content and format of the entrance exam can vary slightly depending on the Studienkolleg and the specific course of study. However, it typically includes tests in German language proficiency and mathematics, along with subject-specific tests covering topics such as economics, physics, or other relevant subjects.

Studienkolleg Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Below you’ll find additional information and answers to frequently asked questions about pursuing a Studienkolleg in Germany.

What Qualifications Are Accepted for Entry to German Universities?

To enter German universities, you generally need a “Hochschulzugangsberechtigung” (university entrance qualification). This is a school-leaving certificate that qualifies you for university study. The qualifications accepted include:

• German Abitur
• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• GCE Advanced Level (A-levels)
• Advanced Placement (AP) tests
• Equivalent qualifications from other countries, subject to recognition.

provides detailed evaluations of foreign secondary school-leaving certificates for Germany. Simply specify your country and certificate to access recognition information and additional requirements.

How Long Does a Studienkolleg Program Last?

Studienkolleg programs in Germany generally take about two semesters, or one academic year, to complete. In rare cases, exceptional performance might allow students to finish in just one semester, which lasts around six months.

Are There Any Studienkollegs That Offer Courses Taught in English?

Even if you intend to enroll in a bachelor’s program taught in English, you must still meet the German language proficiency requirements because Studienkollegs mainly provide courses in German.

Does Completing a Studienkolleg Guarantee Admission to a German University?

Completing a Studienkolleg boosts your admission prospects to a German university by equipping you with valuable skills. However, admission isn’t guaranteed and depends on various factors, including your exam performance, available spots, and other university requirements.

What Does the Curriculum of a Studienkolleg Include?

The curriculums of Studienkollegs usually focus on three main pillars:

• Cultural Integration. Emphasis on understanding German culture, customs, and societal norms to navigate effectively in the local environment.
• Language Proficiency. Intensive language training to achieve proficiency up to level C1 of the Common European Framework of Reference, covering reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills in German.
• Subject Competencies. Specialized instruction in subjects relevant to the chosen academic field, focusing on foundational knowledge, methods, and problem-solving abilities.

Subject competencies are covered in the focus courses, which offer a variety of subjects tailored to different academic paths. For example:

Focus Course	Subjects
G	German, German Literature, Social Science, History
S	German, Secondary Foreign Language, History, Social Studies/Mathematics
W	German, English, Mathematics, Economics
T	German, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry/Computer Science
M	German, Biology, Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics
TI	German, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Computer Science, Technical Drawing
WW	German, Mathematics, Economics/Business, Computer Science, English, Social Studies

Can I Skip a Studienkolleg Course?

You have two options if you’re considering skipping the Studienkolleg:

1) Participation in the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) as an external candidate

Some Studienkollegs let you take the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) independently as an external candidate, but this means you have to prepare for the exam by yourself, which can be tough.

It also involves meeting specific prerequisites such as:

• Conditional admission to the university
• Demonstrated inability to attend the preparatory course (for example employment, children, etc.)
• Above average grades in previous education
• Very good command of the German language (demonstrated through test scores such as TestDaf (level 4 on each section) or DSH 2
• Attendance of at least one or two consultations at the Studienkolleg
• Permission granted by the head of the Studienkolleg

Each Studienkolleg sets its own requirements for external FSP candidates, so conditions may vary.

2) Completing one year of college or university studies in your home country

In some cases, this may allow you to qualify for university studies and skip the Studienkolleg. However, you will still have to provide higher German language certification to demonstrate proficiency (among other requirements).

Ultimately, we advise against skipping Studienkolleg altogether. This course is designed to prepare you for the FSP and to facilitate a smoother transition to university studies. It provides comprehensive support and guidance tailored to your needs, ultimately increasing your chances of success in the exam and beyond.

What Visa Do I Need for Studienkolleg in Germany?

If you’re not from an EU/EEA country or partner country, you’ll need to apply for a visa based on your circumstances to study at a Studienkolleg in Germany:

• Student Applicant Visa. If you’re still in the process of applying to a university or preparatory college and need to undergo the Aufnahmeprüfung (entrance exam) for the Studienkolleg, you’ll need this visa. It permits you to remain in Germany for an initial period of up to three months, with a potential extension of six months. Once you receive admission, you can proceed to apply for a residence permit for study purposes.
• Student Visa. If you’ve already been accepted into a university or preparatory college, you’ll require a student visa. This visa is initially granted for three months, during which you’ll need to apply for a residence permit at the Immigration Office in your German place of residence.

To learn more about visa requirements, refer to our comprehensive guide on the German Student Visa.