Preparatory Year

The Preparatory Year, and Who Needs It?

  • Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Mathematics
  • Natural Sciences (STEM)

Available Specializations

  • M Course: For those interested in studying medicine, biology, or pharmacy.
  • T Course: For those pursuing mathematics, sciences, or technology.
  • W Course: For those aiming to study economics or social sciences.
  • G/S Course: For those interested in humanities, arts, or social sciences.

Where to Complete the Preparatory Year

Costs

  • Public Colleges: Generally free, but semester fees range between €100 and €400.
  • Private Colleges: Tuition fees range from €3,000 to €7,000 per year.

Work Opportunities

Academic Calendar and Application Deadlines

  • Summer Semester: April to September, with lectures running from April to July.
  • Winter Semester: October to March, with lectures from October to January.
  • Application Deadlines:
  • Summer Semester: December to January.
  • Winter Semester: May to July.

Examinations Required

German Language Requirements

  • Goethe Institut
  • ÖSD
  • ELC-Prüfungszentrum

Required Documents

  • High school diploma
  • B1-level German language certificate
  • Admission letter from a preparatory school in Germany with the study start date
  • A blocked bank account containing approximately €12,000
  • Other supporting documents

Your Questions Answered

Frequently Asked Questions About the Preparatory Year in Germany

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  • What is the preparatory year?

    The preparatory year is an essential academic stage for students wishing to enroll in German universities. It is necessary because the Egyptian high school certificate is not recognized as equivalent to the German Abitur. This year can be completed either in Egypt at the Goethe Institute or in Germany at preparatory colleges.

  • Who needs to complete the preparatory year?

    The preparatory year is required for students who want to study a bachelor's degree in scientific or technical fields such as:

    • Engineering
    • Computer Science
    • Mathematics
    • Natural Sciences (STEM)
  • What specializations are available in the preparatory year?

    Preparatory colleges offer specialized courses, including:

    • M Course: Medicine, Biology, Pharmacy
    • T Course: Mathematics, Science, Technology
    • W Course: Economics, Social Sciences
    • G/S Course: Humanities, Arts, Social Sciences
  • Is everyone required to complete the preparatory year? Who is exempt?

    Not all students are required to complete the preparatory year. Those who have studied for one or two years at a recognized Egyptian university in a field similar to their intended study in Germany can apply directly without the preparatory year, provided they submit transcripts and course descriptions as proof.

  • Can the preparatory year be completed in Egypt?

    Yes, it can be completed at the Goethe Institute in Cairo, with annual costs of around €5,000. For more details, it is advisable to contact the institute directly.

  • Is it better to complete the preparatory year in Germany or Egypt?
    Studying in Germany is preferable in terms of language and cultural integration, as it provides a better opportunity to develop German language skills and experience academic life firsthand. However, studying in Germany is more expensive than in Egypt.
  • What are the costs of the preparatory year in Germany?

    Students need to open a blocked bank account with approximately €12,000 to cover annual expenses. Tuition fees vary by institution:

    • Public Colleges: Usually free, but semester fees range from €100 to €400.
    • Private Colleges: Tuition fees range from €3,000 to €7,000 per year.
  • Can students work during the preparatory year in Germany?

    Yes, students can work for 120 full days or 240 part-time days but only during official holidays, not on study days.

  • Is there an exam at the end of the preparatory year?

    Yes, students must take the FSP (Feststellungsprüfung) exam at a recognized test center.

  • When is the FSP exam conducted?

    The exam is held twice a year in the Cologne region, once in May and once in November.

  • What are the academic terms and application deadlines for preparatory schools?
    • Summer Semester: April to September (lectures: April to July)
    • Winter Semester: October to March (lectures: October to January)
    • Application Deadlines:
    • Summer Semester: December to January
    • Winter Semester: May to July
  • How is the final grade for university admission calculated?

    The final score is calculated based on the average of the Egyptian high school certificate grades and the FSP exam results.

  • What are the German language requirements for the preparatory year?

    A B1-level German language certificate, issued within the last 12 months, is required with passing scores in all skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing).

  • Which institutions offer accredited German language exams?
    • Goethe Institut
    • ÖSD
    • ELC-Prüfungszentrum
  • What documents are required for the preparatory year in Germany?
    • High school diploma
    • B1-level German language certificate
    • Admission letter from a preparatory school
    • Blocked bank account with approximately €12,000
    • Other supporting documents

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