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What is Studienkolleg? Get Ready to Study in Germany

written by
Natasha Machado
22/11/2024
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5 min
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Dreaming of Study in Germany but not sure if your academic qualifications are accepted? O Studienkolleg may be your answer! This preparatory course has been developed especially for international students who wish to enter German universities. Let's explore everything about this unique opportunity that can make your dream a reality.

What is Studienkolleg?

O Studienkolleg is an official preparatory program for the German education system, designed to help international students adapt to the teaching method of German universities. If you're considering study and work in Germany, this course may be fundamental to your academic success.

The program works as a bridge between your high school education and the German university, offering not only academic knowledge but also the cultural and linguistic preparation necessary to thrive in the German university environment. During the course, you will have contact with experienced teachers who understand the specific needs of international students.

Types of Studienkolleg and their specificities

The German system offers different Studienkolleg modalities, each preparing you for a specific area of study:

  • Course M (Medizin):
    • Preparation for medicine, dentistry, and life sciences
    • Focus on biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics
    • Intensive workload in laboratories
  • T (Technik) Course:
    • Focused on exact sciences and engineering courses
    • Emphasis on advanced mathematics and physics
    • Includes practical engineering projects
  • Course W (Wirtschaft):
    • Aimed at administration, economics, and social sciences
    • In-depth study of business mathematics
    • Introduction to economics and business management
  • Course G (Geisteswissenschaften):
    • Focused on humanities and foreign languages
    • Focus on German literature and history
    • Development of textual analysis skills
  • Course S (Sprache):
    • Specific to language and philology courses
    • Intensive in German grammar and literature
    • Extensive conversation practice

Application process and required documentation

To start your Studienkolleg journey, you'll need to follow a structured application process. The program is highly similar to entering a university abroad and requires:

  1. Basic documentation:
    • Translated and certified transcript
    • High School Completion Certificate
    • Valid passport
    • Certificate of proficiency in German (level B1)
    • Proof of financial resources
  2. Selection process:
    • General knowledge test
    • German proficiency test
    • Interview (in some cases)
  3. Important deadlines:
    • Winter semester: registrations by July 15
    • Summer semester: registrations until January 15

Student life during Studienkolleg

The Studienkolleg experience goes far beyond the classroom. You will have the opportunity to:

  • Participate in international study groups
  • Attend German cultural events
  • Use modern libraries and laboratories
  • Play sports at university facilities
  • Participate in mentoring programs

Housing and student visa

The issue of housing and legal documentation is fundamental to your success in the program:

Housing options:

  • Student accommodation (Studentenwohnheim)
  • Shared apartments (WG)
  • Private residences
  • Host families

Visa process:

  • Apply for a student visa at the German embassy
  • Submit a Studienkolleg acceptance letter
  • Prove financial resources
  • Buy German health insurance

Top cities for Studienkolleg

Some German cities are particularly popular for the program:

Berlin:

  • Wider range of courses
  • Multicultural environment
  • Moderate cost of living

Munich:

  • Excellent infrastructure
  • Close to tourist attractions
  • Strong labor market

Frankfurt:

  • Financial Center
  • Good international connectivity
  • Diverse cultural options

Heidelberg:

  • Traditional university city
  • Intense academic environment
  • High quality of life

Find out more about the biggest cities in Germany!

Costs and financial life

Financial planning is essential to your experience:

  1. Approximate monthly costs:
    • House: 600-1300€
    • Food: 200-300€
    • Transportation: 80-100€
    • Teaching material: 50€
    • Leisure: 100-150€
  2. Job possibilities:
    • Permission to work 120 full days or 240 part-time periods per year
    • Jobs in cafés, restaurants, or as an assistant at the university
    • Internships related to the study area

Preparing for Success

To get the most out of your Studienkolleg:

  • Start studying German as soon as possible
  • Familiarize yourself with the German education system
  • Prepare yourself financially
  • Establish contacts with other students
  • Stay organized with documentation

Be Easy

A Be Easy is prepared to assist you on your entire journey to Studienkolleg in Germany. Our expert team offers complete guidance, from choosing the appropriate course to preparing the necessary documentation. We have experienced professionals who have lived in Germany and are thoroughly familiar with the country's education system. Contact us and discover how we can make your dream of studying in Germany a reality!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy