The preparatory year is a crucial 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 high school diploma (Abitur) for studying in Germany. This year can be completed either in Egypt at the Goethe Institute or in Germany at preparatory colleges.
The preparatory year is designed for students seeking to pursue a bachelor's degree in scientific or technical fields such as:
Completing the preparatory year is mandatory before applying to German universities. However, students who have already studied for one or two years in a recognized Egyptian university (public or private) in a field similar to their intended study in Germany may apply directly without the preparatory year, provided they submit transcripts and course descriptions as proof.
Preparatory colleges offer specialized courses in the following areas:
The preparatory year can be completed at the Goethe Institute in Cairo, with annual fees of approximately €5,000. However, studying in Germany offers a better linguistic and cultural experience, allowing students to develop their German language skills faster and get acquainted with academic life in Germany. Nevertheless, studying in Germany can be more expensive than in Egypt.
Students planning to study in Germany must open a blocked bank account with approximately €12,000 to cover annual expenses. The tuition fees for the preparatory year vary depending on the institution:
Students can work during the preparatory year for 120 full days or 240 part-time days. However, work is allowed only during official holidays and not during study days.
At the end of the preparatory year, students must pass the FSP (Feststellungsprüfung) exam at a recognized examination center. The exam is conducted twice a year in the Cologne region, once in May and once in November.
The final grade for university admission is calculated based on the total scores of the Egyptian high school certificate and the preparatory year exam (FSP). The scores are averaged, and the final result serves as the primary criterion for university admission in Germany.
Students must hold a B1-level German language certificate issued within the last 12 months, meeting the minimum required scores in all skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing).
Frequently Asked Questions About the Preparatory Year in Germany
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.
The preparatory year is required for students who want to study a bachelor's degree in scientific or technical fields such as:
Preparatory colleges offer specialized courses, including:
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.
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.
Students need to open a blocked bank account with approximately €12,000 to cover annual expenses. Tuition fees vary by institution:
Yes, students can work for 120 full days or 240 part-time days but only during official holidays, not on study days.
Yes, students must take the FSP (Feststellungsprüfung) exam at a recognized test center.
The exam is held twice a year in the Cologne region, once in May and once in November.
The final score is calculated based on the average of the Egyptian high school certificate grades and the FSP exam results.
A B1-level German language certificate, issued within the last 12 months, is required with passing scores in all skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing).
Are you wondering if the requirements for traveling to Germany and applying to our programs apply to you?
Fill out the form now, and our team of specialists will get in touch with you to answer all your questions.
