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Studienkolleg (preparatory course)

An institution that prepares students, academically and linguistically, for their studies in Germany during a one-year course.

Studienkolleg courses are offered for various subject areas (Focus courses). The Studienkolleg ends with the university qualification exam, the "Feststellungsprüfung". Once you have passed the exam, you can apply for undergraduate courses of study (bachelor, Staatsexamen or Diplom courses) in your subject area. Passing the exam provides you with a subject-restricted University entrance qualification ("fachgebundene HZB").

Studienkollegs at "Universitäten" and "Fachhochschulen":
Both "Universitäten" (universities) and "Fachhochschulen" (universities of applied sciences) may offer Studienkollegs. A university qualification exam provided by a "Fachhochschule" qualifies you to study only at a "Fachhochschule", not at a "Universität". A university qualification exam provided by a "Universität" qualifies you to study at both types of universities: "Universitäten" and "Fachhochschulen".

Entrance test:
Before being accepted for the Studienkolleg, you need to pass an entrance test. This test assesses your command of German and your basic knowledge in your chosen subject area.

Who must complete a Studienkolleg?
Whether you need to pass the university qualification exam in a Studienkolleg before studying will depend on your prior education (University entrance qualification).

You can use our database “Check: university admission“ to check whether you qualify for direct admission to academic studies or for admission to the Studienkolleg (preparatory course).

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See also: Focus course, Feststellungsprüfung (university qualification exam), Undergraduate studies, University entrance qualification ("Hochschulzugangsberechtigung"), Fachhochschule (university of applied sciences), Subject restriction