For the general and linguistic preparation for degree study, the University of Cologne is offering Preparatory German language courses, supplemented with more general Introductory courses.
In order to be able to apply, you need a „University Entrance Qualification“ (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung, HZB) and at least level B1 in German (certificate). You can find more information about the courses and requirements below.
The courses start at the beginning of each semester in April and October. Deadlines are 15th of February and 15th of August respectively.
If you are interested in attending a Preparatory German course, you are welcome to visit our informational sessions throughout the semester. The participation is required prior to your application. You can find the current dates here.
Please note that the application has to be submitted digitally via our application portal.
Information & Application (Application portal & application form only in German)
The German language course on level C1 concludes with an exam enabeling you to study at the university. Before the course begins, there will be a placement test and applicants will be assigned a German course depending on their language level. We are offering courses at all levels.
Additional Offers
In addition, we offer workshops and organise events on the following topics as well:
- Orientation Workshops for students
- Workshops on the German labour market
- Workshops on time and self-management
- Workshops on systematic exam preparation
- Computer and keyboard trainings
In addition to the workshops, we offer a personal study orientation for all participants.
Application- Entry Requirements
To apply for the courses you will have to fulfil the following requirements:
1) You need a University Entrance Qualification: You can check if you have one using uni-assist or on the anabin database.
2) Knowledge of the German language of level B1or higher: You need a certificate that proves your german proficiency.
3) Refugee background
Application- Deadlines and Documents
Application deadline:
For the winter semester (Start in October), the deadline for the application is the 15th of August. For the summer semester (Start in April) it is the 15th of February.
Please note that the application must be submitted via our Application Portal. To submit the documents, upload your files in PDF format to the online portal.
Required application documents:
To apply for the Preparatory German Course, you need to upload your documents to the application portal. Your participation in an information event is necessary for the application. Please find the next dates for the information events here.
You will need the following documents:
Your School Leaving Certificate (e.g. Abitur) with an overview of subjects and grades in the original language AND the translation (if the original is not in German or English)
If available:
Study certificates from your university with an overview of subjects and grades (Transcript of Records) AND translation (if the original is not in English or German)
Certificate of the University Entrance examination and/ or Pre-University Course in home country AND translation (if the original is not in English or German)
Certificate of Assesment Test with proofs from previous education
Certificate of the TestAS
Certificate evaluation (Zeugnisbewertung) by the ZAB (Central Office for Foreign Education) in Bonn (Click here for more information)
Copy of German language proficiency certificate (Level B1 or higher)
Copy of resident permit status in Germany
If available: Copy of passport or similar proof of identification
verw.uni-koeln.de
