International students get interested in pursuing their higher education at the top three study destinations of the world and Germany is one of them. Students choose it for its high-quality education available at affordable costs. If you are from a non-EU country, you may need to complete a Studienkolleg in Germany before enrolling for a bachelor’s program. This guide gives information about Studienkolleg for international students, its types, application procedures, entrance exams, and costs.
What is Studienkolleg in Germany?
A Studienkolleg in Germany is a preparatory course before a bachelor’s degree designed for international students whose school qualifications do not meet the requirements for studying at a German university. It bridges the academic gap and prepares the students for the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP), the final assessment exam for university admission.
Studienkolleg programs focus on subject-specific knowledge related to the student’s chosen field. It is conducted in German, so a basic proficiency in the language (usually B1 or B2 level) is required.
Why should you attend a Studienkolleg?
Here are the main reasons for attending a Studienkolleg in Germany:
- It helps students bridge any gaps between their previous education and the German higher education system. According to the Indian education system, a student receives 12 years of education (till class 12th), but German universities require 13 years of education to permit you to study a Bachelor’s program. This gap needs to be covered by attending a studienkolleg.
- It is a chance to improve German language skills.
- It provides subject-specific knowledge needed for university studies.
- Adapting to German culture and academic life becomes easy before actual studies begin.
- Studienkolleg completion leads the way to joining a university qualification (Feststellungsprüfung).
Private vs. Public Studienkolleg in Germany
Students who are planning to proceed with bachelor’s studies must know that there are two types of Studienkolleg in Germany: public and private.
Public Studienkolleg:
- Free to study (except for minor administrative fees).
- The admission process is competitive.
- Limited seats are available.
- A high level of German proficiency is needed.
Private Studienkolleg:
- The acceptance rate is higher.
- Tuition fees are between €4,000 to €25,000 per year.
- More flexible admission requirements.
- English-taught preparatory courses are provided in some cases.
Studienkolleg Preparatory Courses
Studienkolleg program categories are based on the field of study. The most common ones are:
T Course Studienkolleg:
The T Course is designed for students interested in technical, engineering, and science-related fields. It prepares them for university studies in Germany. Subjects in this course include:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
M Course Studienkolleg:
The M Course is intended for fields like medicine, pharmacy, or health-related sciences. The subjects taught under the M Course are as follows:
- Biology- Living organisms and processes related to them.
- Chemistry- Chemical reactions, properties, and lab practice.
- Physics- The principle of physics in the context of medical sciences.
- Mathematics- Important mathematical theories and solving methodologies.
W Course Studienkolleg:
Those who intend to take business economics, or social science studies go for the W Course. Subjects included in it are:
- Economics-Economic theories and models, which have been found to apply.
- Business Administration-Core business principles/management/ operations
- Mathematics-Math in the context of economics/businesses
- Statistics-Evaluation of various data, where results from analyses are used appropriately to make educated decisions.
All of these preparatory coursework helps students to become proficient in selected areas of study, along with lessons in (academic) akademische German, so that they’ll be able to follow lectures and complete their academic assignments.
What is the Studienkolleg Entrance Exam?
To gain admission into a Studienkolleg in Germany, students must clear Aufnahmetest, which is an entrance exam. This exam checks the knowledge in subjects like mathematics and the German language. The exam format differs from one Studienkolleg to another but usually has multiple-choice or written questions.
The application process for a Studienkolleg
To apply for Studienkolleg in Germany, international students can use two methods:
Direct Application to the Studienkolleg:
Some Studienkollegs through their official websites accept direct applications. You must check the eligibility criteria and deadlines for each institution.
Application through Uni-Assist:
Most public universities process Studienkolleg through a central application portal called Uni-Assist specifically for international students. The procedure usually involves:
- Creating an account on the Uni-Assist portal.
- Submission of copies of scanned required documents.
- Paying the application fee of €75 for the first application, while there is an additional €30 charge for subsequent applications.
- Waiting for confirmation to take the entrance exam.
Important Documents Needed to Apply to Studienkolleg in Germany
Studienkolleg Germany requirements to get admission are:
- Higher secondary school certificate (class 12th mark sheet & certificate)
- Proof of German language proficiency (B1 or B2 level, depending on Studienkolleg)
- Valid passport
- Motivation letter (for some private Studienkollegs)
- Uni-Assist application form (if applicable)
All these documents should be translated into German and notarized.
Qualified the Entrance Examination: Feststellungsprüfung (FSP)
After passing the Studienkolleg, the students must take the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP). The final examination evaluates their preparedness to enter the German university. A student, who passes FSP, is eligible to seek a bachelor’s course.
Type of Examination:
- Subject-specific written examinations according to the selected course: T, M, or W.
- Oral examinations at some Studienkollegs.
Private Studienkolleg in Germany Fees
Private Studienkollegs charge tuition fees. These fees vary by institution and period of study. A general approximation is as follows:
- Basic courses: €4,000 – €7,000 a year.
- Premium courses: additional coaching and exam preparation with the course – €10,000 – €25,000 a year.
Private Studienkollegs can offer several benefits, including smaller class sizes, personalized attention, and easier admission.
Conclusion
For international students, studying bachelor’s in Germany is not possible without joining a Studienkolleg. Students may opt for either a private or public Studienkolleg depending on budget and admission flexibility. Clearing the Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) would let the student enter one of the top German universities and build successful careers.
If you are an Indian student searching for information regarding applications to the Studienkolleg, Contact us today for expert assistance.