University preparation in Germany for international students

German education is highly valued in the world, TOP-10 German universities are included in prestigious international ratings, and most of them are open today for foreign students all over the world, who most often choose to study in Germany after high school. But not every students knows how to enter the university in Germany. Nowadays, TOP-10 German universities are attractive for international students due to their tuition fees and high-quality education. 

If you are planning to enter German high educational institutions, you must understand that due to probable differences in educational system you need to have the appropriate entitlement. Besides, every country has its own specific school-leaving certificates and, not all of them can be equal to a German and some foreign school-leaving certificates are not recognized or partially recognized in Germany.

The German educational system provides for a 13-year secondary education cycle. Accordingly, to enter a university in Germany, some graduates need to compensate for two missing years of studeying. Studying abroad after the 11th grade, namely admission to educational institutions in Germany, requires a deeper and fuller preparation from the student.

When it comes to preparing for university in Germany, foreign students have multiple pathways to choose from after completing their 11th grade. The most popular options are:

• Enrolling in a national state or accredited private higher education institution in their home country for at least two years, focusing on a specialty that aligns with their intended field of study in Germany.

• Completing a one-year, full-time German Studienkolleg program right after the 11th grade.

• Pursuing senior-level programs such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) in English or the Abitur in German, typically offered at private schools in Germany.

Among these options, the Studienkolleg route is particularly popular as it allows students to transition to a German university after just one additional year of study, while also facilitating language and academic acclimatization.

Admission and University Preparation Course

Admission to German universities after completing a Studienkolleg course is generally determined by the results of a qualifying exam. Most institutions don't require additional entrance examinations, although some may conduct interviews. Another common requirement is the TestAS, a specialized assessment test designed for foreign applicants. Additionally, the average grade from the student's school certificate is often taken into account when considering their application.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

While the fees for university preparation courses can vary, it's crucial to understand the comprehensive cost of preparing for university in Germany. These costs may include tuition fees for the Studienkolleg, TestAS fees, and potentially other costs related to language courses, materials, and living expenses.

By carefully considering these three steps and understanding the associated university preparation course fees, foreign students can make informed decisions about their educational journey in Germany.

Gaining admission to a German higher education institution requires more than just fluency in German; language barriers often hinder prospective students from realizing their dreams of acquiring a prestigious European education. SMAPSE experts recommend specialized university prep courses in Germany to help students become proficient in the language.

In the SMAPSE catalog, you'll find some of the most prestigious German language schools. These specialized centers offer academic programs in German for both teenagers (16 and up) and adults. These courses not only enhance existing language skills but also equip students with the essential skills required for further education.

Offered by SMAPSE, these German schools give foreign students an opportunity to study in university-like conditions. This immersive experience allows students to quickly adapt to a new academic and cultural environment, learn local traditions, and get accustomed to university rules and discipline. These courses offer intensive daily practice and often include a combined program featuring both language modules and courses relevant to the students' chosen field of study. This comprehensive approach is designed to prepare students not just for university admission, but also for the educational journey that lies ahead.

The SMAPSE catalog makes it incredibly easy to choose the right program and school for Studienkolleg courses after the 11th grade. Its user-friendly interface features filters on the left panel that let you sort information by program type and school location.

Customized selection options are also available on the site. To get started, simply fill out the short form or contact us via email, chat, or phone. SMAPSE specialists have extensive knowledge about how foreign students can enter universities in Germany and are eager to share their expertise with you. They can also provide details on the cost of preparing for university in Germany, giving you a clear understanding of what to expect financially.

To enroll in a university in the UAE, you will need a certified copy of your high school diploma, grade transcripts, and English language test results (such as IELTS or TOEFL).

Most universities in the UAE require international students to submit English language test results such as IELTS or TOEFL. Typically, the minimum scores for admission vary from university to university.

Application deadlines may vary depending on the university and program of study. It is generally recommended to apply early, at least several months before the start of the academic semester.

A variety of study programs are available in the UAE, including bachelor's, master's and doctoral programs in various fields such as business, engineering, medicine, arts and humanities.

Living costs in the UAE can vary significantly depending on the city chosen and level of comfort. On average, students can expect to pay for housing, food and transportation.

To obtain a student visa in the UAE, you will need an official invitation from the university and relevant documents. You should contact the UAE Consulate in your country for detailed information on the visa procedure.

Many universities in the UAE provide language courses and support for international students to help them improve their English or Arabic language skills depending on their program of study. This can be especially helpful for those who do not have the language level to successfully learn.

To successfully adapt to the UAE, it is important to respect local traditions and customs. Try to be open to new experiences, learn the Arabic language and local culture, and respect local customs, such as the month of Ramadan, during which you should avoid eating and drinking in public during the day.

The academic year in the UAE is usually divided into two semesters, starting in September and January. Many universities also offer summer sessions. Before enrolling, it is important to check the specific start and end dates of academic sessions with the chosen university.

Many universities provide mentoring programs in which experienced students or faculty help new students adapt to university life and resolve emerging issues. This may include academic support, guidance and study advice.

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