Applying to a Studienkolleg: Documents, Systems, and Fees

Documents Needed for Studienkolleg Application

Studienkollegs typically require several certified and translated documents. It is crucial that all copies are certified by the related institution or a notary public.

Required Documents Checklist:

• High School Diploma: A copy of your final high school diploma, which must include the list of all scores/grades.
• High School Report Card: A copy of the report card for your high school's last two semesters.
• German Language Certificate: A copy of your German language certificate. Most Studienkollegs require B2 level, though some may still accept B1. Most institutions only accept GER (Common European Framework of Reference) certificates, such as those from Goethe, TestDaF, or telc.
• Passport Photo
• CV (Curriculum Vitae): Must be written in German.
• Passport/ID: A copy of your passport or national ID.
• Student Visa: A copy of your student visa (if you are already residing in Germany).
• Registration Form: A filled-in registration form, unless the Studienkolleg requires application through Uni-assist.
• APS Certificate: Mandatory only for applicants from China, India, and Vietnam.

Translation and Certification

If any of the documents listed above are not written in German or English, they must be translated by a certified translator. You must send both the translated and the certified copy of the original document.

Pro Tip: Bring at least 10 certified copies of these key documents to Germany, as you will need them again when registering at a university.

Types of Application

Studienkollegs generally use one of three application methods: Uni-assist, Mixed System, or Direct Application.

1. Uni-assist Application

Applying through Uni-assist is required by several Studienkollegs. Uni-assist acts as a centralized document review service.

Fees:

• First application in a semester: €75
• Additional applications in the same semester: €30
• (Note: If you apply again next year, the initial €75 fee applies again.)

The Process:

1. Pay the fee and submit your documents (either online or physically by mail—check the college’s requirement). Uni-assist will verify your documents' legitimacy and determine if you are qualified for a Studienkolleg.
2. If qualified, you will receive a document called a Prüfergebnis (or VPD – Vorprüfungsdokumentation). This document confirms whether your application has been forwarded to the Studienkolleg or specifies the reason(s) if it could not be forwarded.

Crucial Note: Not all Studienkollegs accept online-only applications through Uni-assist; some still require physical documents to be mailed.

2. Mixed System (Common in Bayern/Bavaria)

Studienkollegs in Bavaria use a two-step mixed system:

1. Uni-assist Step: You apply through Uni-assist solely to obtain the VPD (Vorprüfungsdokumentation).
2. Direct Step: You then print the VPD and send it, along with all other required documents, to the mailing address of the Studienkolleg (e.g., STK Coburg for Fachhochschule applications, or STK München for university applications).

The VPD received in this system is usually only valid for the associated Studienkolleg within the region (Bayern).

3. Direct Application

Direct application means you bypass external services like Uni-assist.

The Process:

1. Search the Studienkolleg's website (usually under the "Bewerbung" page) for the application form and list of required documents.
2. Fill out the form and place it, along with all certified copies, into an envelope (like a C4 size).
3. Send the package directly to the Studienkolleg or the associated university via post.

Important Application Notes

Course Selection Flexibility

The specific course you apply to at the associated university does not strictly lock you into that exact field, but it must be related to your desired Studienkolleg course (Kurs).

Example: If you want to study Maschinenbau (T-Kurs), but the university's associated Studienkolleg does not list that course, you can apply for a related subject like Fahrzeugtechnik or Raumfahrttechnik. You will still receive an invitation for the Aufnahmeprüfung (ANP) for the necessary T-Kurs.

The Aufnahmeprüfung (ANP)

After applying, you will be sent a Zulassung (invitation) to take part in the Aufnahmeprüfung (ANP), which is the entrance exam for Studienkollegs.

• Almost every Studienkolleg requires the ANP. Exceptions include Studienkolleg Hamburg, VSI MiNT (Saarland), and certain private Studienkollegs.
• Strategy: Apply to as many Studienkollegs as possible (at least 5). Do not rely on a single Studienkolleg; multiple applications serve as crucial backups.

Receiving Your Zulassung

Do not forget to write the sender and receiver address clearly on your envelope.

Tip for faster processing: If you know someone in Germany, ask them for permission to use their address as the Postanschrift (postal address). Write their name as c/o on the postal address. Ask them to scan the Zulassung sent to their address. This is the fastest way to receive your invitation, as some Studienkollegs still send the Zulassung only through physical mail, while others use email.

University Lock-in

Applying to a Studienkolleg DOES NOT lock you to that specific university. Once you pass the FSP, your certificate is generally valid for application to universities across Germany. This holds true even if you applied via Uni-assist through a specific university course.

Application Deadlines

For specific application deadlines (which vary between Studienkollegs and semesters), please refer to the relevant academic information source, such as the DAAD or the individual Studienkolleg websites.