PREP COURSES AND STUDIENKOLLEG (FOUNDATION COURSES)
In the case of your school – leaving document is invalid in Germany,"Studienkolleg", known as the
foundation course, needs to be cleared, followed by a final test, called – "Feststellungsprüfung", towards
gaining a position in a German university. Or else another option in case you feel you are not yet ready,
you may pursue a language course or a preparatory course (called the “Propädeutikum”).
You can check whether your qualifications are enough and whether you need to undergo
"Studienkolleg" (foundation course).
The "Studienkolleg" is also known as a preparatory course in English. But preparatory courses could
be also a "Propädeutika" (as mentioned below), which comprises of other content and also that does
not have the "Feststellungsprüfung" towards the finishing part.
STUDIENKOLLEG / FOUNDATION COURSE –
"Studienkolleg" / the Foundation course are available at universities of applied sciences. And are not
available at all higher education institutions. The programs have a combination of different key topics
that guide students in areas that are subject – specific.
In case you take the "Feststellungsprüfung", known as the university qualification test, at a university of
applied sciences, you have the option to pursue studies there, once you are done. The overseas office at
institution where you complete you higher education, would be able to guide you with the right
"Studienkolleg" – program. "Studienkolleg"- programs vary from each another.
DIFFERENT PROGRAMS AT UNIVERSITIES
M-course – This category is for potential students for dentistry, pharmacy, biochemistry, medicine, ,
bioinformatics, biology and other medical, veterinary medicine , biological or pharmaceutical degree
programmes.
W-course – This category is for prospective students of business administration and economics (BWL
and VWL) and various social science degree and economics courses.
G-course – This category is for potential students of foreign language degree and all humanities related
courses.
T-course – This category is for potential students of mathematical, scientific or technical degree and
natural science degree courses, with the exception of biochemistry and biology courses.
S-course – This category is only for language courses only.
For an entry into the "Studienkolleg"- program, there are some basic criteria as follows –
Excellent German know how (Level B1 of the Common European Framework).
Expenses to support yourself in Germany (financial resource evidence).
An authentic / Valid Visa
Students must partake of entrance test to prove language skills. In case your German language is not
sound, you may partake a language course in Germany itself. In certain universities, this course is taken
consideration, once you apply for admission to a "Studienkolleg"- course.
The foundation course ("Studienkolleg") is free of cost in a” state higher education institution”. But
students doing the program are liable to pay the semester contribution that is commonly paid by all
students.
A "Studienkolleg"- program comprises of two semesters, with 30 hours of studies per week. Students
who have done exceptionally well, can partake "Feststellungsprüfung" (university qualification exam)
after one semester itself.
UNIVERSITY QUALIFICATION EXAM (FESTSTELLUNGSPRÜFUNG)
Towards the finishing period of "Studienkolleg" (foundation course), the "Feststellungsprüfung"
(university qualification exam), is mandatory for students. This exam touches many a subject areas that
are important for the subject you would like to study in the future. language exam is not part of this.
PREPARATORY COURSES (PROPÄDEUTIKA)
In case you want to do a Master’s degree, "Studienkolleg" – course at a university is not required.
However, you may partake a Propädeutikum (preparatory course /introductory course). Also, if you
want to study for your Bachelor's degree in Germany but do not have to attend a "Studienkolleg" –
course, students may join a preparatory course.
In this kind of an introductory program, students are required to prepare mainly for your degree course
that is language and knowledge of your subject. Sometimes there will be an induction towards the
German academic system and academic work methodologies, meaning when you start your degree
programme later on, it will be simpler to adjust to your student life in Germany.
There are courses for overseas students –
For those who are already admitted to study at a higher education institution in
Germany.
For those who are yet to be admitted, but have already met the criteria to study in
Germany.
For those who still need to meet criteria for a higher education entry qualification.
These courses finish within a few weeks or last for 1 or 2 semesters.
CERTAIN FACTS –
Duration of program – 10 months (full time).
Language – German/English
Structure -Full time Foundation/preparatory course in Germany.
Location -Berlin/Bonn