Studienkolleg or Foundation Year in Germany

If you're an international student planning to study Bachelors in Germany, you might find that your educational qualifications from your home country don't fully match the requirements of the German higher education system. But don't worry—this doesn’t mean you can’t study in Germany. There are still ways to pursue your degree even if your current qualifications aren’t recognized as equivalent. To be sure about the process, it’s essential to check the application requirements for both bachelor’s and master’s programs in Germany.

What is Studienkolleg?

A Studienkolleg is a preparatory institution designed to help international students bridge the gap between their current qualifications and the requirements for studying at a German university. The main goal of a Studienkolleg is to prepare students for the final exam, known as the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP), which, once passed, allows them to enroll in a degree program at a German university.

At a Studienkolleg, students can take courses to improve their German language skills—whether they need to learn the basics or advance to a higher level. In addition to language training, Studienkollegs also help students get accustomed to the academic environment and study structure of German universities.

There are both public and private Studienkollegs in Germany. Public Studienkollegs are free and typically offer a broad range of course topics. On the other hand, private Studienkollegs charge tuition fees but might be more suitable for students who need specific courses tailored to their university goals. However, it's important to note that some German universities may not accept certifications from certain private Studienkollegs, so it's essential to verify this before applying.

Types of Studienkollegs

Studienkollegs are mainly of two types: University and Applied Science. This distinction is crucial because the type you choose will determine the academic path available to you.

Universities are research-oriented institutions that emphasize theoretical approaches over practical applications. At these universities, students can pursue all levels of education, including doctoral degrees.

On the other hand, Universities of Applied Sciences (UAS) focus on the practical application of research. Their curricula often include project-based courses in collaboration with companies, mandatory internships, and classes taught by industry professionals. However, only a few Universities of Applied Sciences offer opportunities for doctoral studies.

Note:

1. If a student successfully passes exams for a “University” Studienkolleg, then they can choose to study at either a University or a University of Applied Sciences (UAS).

2. If a student chooses a Studienkolleg affiliated with a University of Applied Sciences, then they can only study at a UAS.

A general breakdown of subjects accordingly:

University Studienkollegs	University of Applied Sciences Studienkollegs
• G-course: humanities or German studies. • W-course: business, economics, & social sciences. • T-course: mathematics, science, & technical. • M-course: medical, biology, & pharmaceutical. • S-course: languages.	GD-course: design & art. SW-course: social science. WW-course: economics & business. TI-course: technical & engineering.
Qualifies for a study at Universities AND Universities of Applied Sciences.	Qualifies for a study at Universities of Applied Sciences.

What do the letters G, W, T etc. stand for?

The letters refer to the field of study in German. For University Studienkollegs it is one letter only:

• G: Geisteswissenschaften (humanities).

• W: Wirtschaft (business).

• T: Technik (tech).

• M: Medizin (medicine).

• S: Sprachen (languages).

For Studienkollegs at Universities of Applied Sciences the courses have two letters:

• GD: Gestaltung/Design (design).

• TI: Technik/Ingenieurwissenschaften (tech/engineering).

• WW: Wirtschaftswissenschaften (business/economics).

• SW: Sozialwissenschaften (social sciences).

Language

There are a few Studienkollegs that offer courses in English, as listed below. However, since the primary purpose of a Studienkolleg is to prepare students for studies in Germany, most courses are taught in German. To enroll in a Studienkolleg, students generally need to demonstrate German language proficiency at the B2 level (upper-intermediate according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages - CEFR). However, some Studienkollegs may accept students with a B1 level in German.

Students can prove their language proficiency by providing a language certificate from an official language institution or exam. Accepted certificates include TestDaF, DSH, TELC, and Goethe.

English-taught Studienkollegs Even at English-taught Studienkollegs, German language courses are offered to help students prepare for life in Germany, even if their main program is in English. In some cases, these Studienkollegs only provide direct entry into their affiliated university after completing the program and passing the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP).

Fees

As mentioned earlier, there are different types of Studienkollegs, including those based on the type of university (e.g., university or applied science) and those categorized as public or private.

Public Studienkollegs: Public Studienkollegs do not charge tuition fees, but students are required to pay a contribution fee. This fee covers administrative costs, on-campus services, and a public transportation ticket. The fees are relatively low, typically ranging from €100 to €400 per semester.

Private Studienkollegs: Attending a private Studienkolleg can be significantly more expensive, with costs ranging from €4,000 to €12,000, including accommodation at some institutions. Since places at public Studienkollegs are limited, not every applicant may be accepted, making private Studienkollegs a necessary option for some students.

Entrance exam

Before being admitted to a public Studienkolleg, students must pass an entrance exam. This exam evaluates whether students have sufficient German language skills to participate in the course and assesses their foundational knowledge in the subject area they choose.

Students should ensure their German language skills meet the minimum requirements, as the exam is conducted in German. Additionally, brushing up on math skills is important, as math may also be included in the exam.

Private Studienkollegs generally do not require an entrance exam for admission.

How to apply

Applying to a Studienkolleg involves a unique process that differs from applying to a university. While students usually apply through a specific pathway, some Studienkollegs do offer the option to apply independently. Below are two methods for applying to a Studienkolleg:

Applying Directly Through the University: The most straightforward way to apply to a Studienkolleg is through the university where the student plans to study. Typically, the university's International Office will assist international students who need to attend a Studienkolleg before starting their degree program. This method ensures that the application process is streamlined and that the Studienkolleg placement aligns with the student’s chosen university.

Applying Independently via Uni-Assist: Some Studienkollegs also allow students to apply directly, although this option is less common and not available at all institutions. For students who wish to apply independently, it is recommended to use uni-assist, a service that guides students through the application process and provides support along the way.

Steps

1. Check Your Eligibility

   • Ensure your school leaving certificate qualifies you to study in Germany. Use resources like the Anabin Database to see if your certificate allows direct entry to a university or if you need to attend a Studienkolleg.

2. Research Studienkollegs

   • Identify which Studienkolleg you need based on your intended field of study and the type of university (University or University of Applied Sciences) you wish to attend.

3. Gather Application Requirements

   • Each Studienkolleg has specific application requirements, deadlines, and documents needed. Check the official websites of the Studienkollegs you are interested in for this information.

4. Determine the Application Method

   • Find out if you can apply directly to the Studienkolleg or if you need to apply through uni-assist, which helps process applications for many German universities and Studienkollegs.

5. Apply for a Visa

   • Visit the website of the German Mission or Consulate in your home country to learn about the student visa application process. Prepare and submit your visa application with all required documents.

6. Prepare for the Entrance Exam

   • Studienkollegs require an entrance exam that usually includes German language skills and possibly other subjects like math, depending on the program. Review the exam format and prepare accordingly, using sample exams provided by the Studienkolleg.

7. Take the Entrance Exam

   • Most students will need to travel to Germany to take the entrance exam. However, in some cases, exams can be taken at external offices, such as those run by the DAAD or Goethe-Institut, in your home country.

8. Begin Your Studies

   • Upon passing the entrance exam, you will be admitted to the one-year Studienkolleg program. This program will prepare you academically and linguistically for studying at a German university. After completing the Studienkolleg, you can apply to your chosen university.

Requirements

Applications requirements vary among Studienkollegs but generally the required documents students should be prepared to submit are the following:

• Application form,

• Resume or CV,

• Academic Certificate/12th Marksheet/degree/diploma,

• German language certificate.

The Feststellungsprüfung (FSP)

The Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) is the final exam taken after completing a Studienkolleg course. It serves as a crucial step in the admission process for studying at a German university. The FSP tests students on the material covered throughout the Studienkolleg course and includes questions on the German language as well as specialized topics related to the student’s intended field of study.

It's important to note that not all Studienkollegs include the FSP as part of their program. Some may have it as a separate requirement. Students should check the specific details of their Studienkolleg program to confirm if the FSP is incorporated into their curriculum and what is required for their completion.