Preparatory Programs in Germany – Studienkolleg

Germany offers tuition-free higher education in German at public universities, but international students must complete a 12th year of study at a Studienkolleg before applying. This preparatory program ensures students are academically and linguistically ready for university studies.

How Can You Enter a German University?

You have two options:
1️⃣ Study for one year at a local university, then apply directly to a German university.

  • Requires B2 - C1 level German proficiency

  • Must pass an entrance exam

  • No adaptation period—students face the same academic expectations as German students

2️⃣ Enroll in a Studienkolleg, a preparatory program designed for international students.

  • Offers German language improvement and academic preparation

  • Helps students adapt to life in Germany

  • After completion, students can apply to any state university in Germany

Types of Studienkolleg

1. State Studienkolleg (Public) – Free but Competitive

✔ Tuition: Almost free (appr. 300 Euro per semester)
✔ German Requirement: B2.2 level
✔ Admission Process: Usually entrance exams in German and subject-specific tests (e.g., Mathematics for technical and business fields)
✔ Exams must be taken in person
✔ Strict application deadlines

2. Private Studienkolleg – Easier Admission & Flexible Dates

✔ Tuition: Approx. €5,000 per year
✔ German Requirement: Lower than public Studienkollegs; language courses available for students who need additional preparation
✔ Admission: No entrance exams—selection is based on a language certificate and school grades (subject to availability)
✔ More flexible application deadlines
✔ Located in states such as Brandenburg and North Rhine-Westphalia, where no public Studienkollegs exist

💡 After completing either type of Studienkolleg, students can apply to any state university in Germany.

Studienkolleg Courses by Specialty

📌 M-Course – Medicine, Biology, Pharmacy
📌 T-Course – Technical & Mathematical Specialties
📌 W-Course – Business, Economics, Social Sciences
📌 G-Course – Humanities
📌 S-Course – Linguistics
📌 TI-Course – Technical & Engineering Specialties
📌 WW-Course – Economic & Business Specialties
📌 GD-Course – Design & Creative Specialties
📌 SW-Course – Social Sciences

🕒 Duration: 2 semesters (1 year)
📌 Extension: Students can repeat a semester twice if needed to improve their final exam results.

Which Studienkolleg is Right for You?

Choosing between public and private Studienkollegs depends on your language skills, academic background, and admission flexibility. At NEXA Group, we provide personalized guidance to help you find the best Studienkolleg for your future career.