W-Course Studienkolleg
Prepare for a degree in business, economics, and social sciences with the W-Course at the Studienkolleg Prep4University in Cologne.
Semester
2
Start
Winter/Summer
Language
German/English
Location
Cologne
Fees
from 6.000€
Certificate
Feststellungsprüfung
Start your degree with the W-Course!
The W-Course gives you the ideal preparation for a degree in business and social sciences. If you are planning to study for a Bachelor’s degree in these fields, you can enrol in the W-Course as part of the Studienkolleg. You will complete the course with the Feststellungsprüfung (university entrance assessment test) – either internally at CBS on behalf of the Cologne District Government or externally directly with the Cologne District Government. Once you have successfully passed, you will be eligible to study at a German university or university of applied sciences.
What subjects are taught in the W-Course?
In the W-Course you will gain subject knowledge and methodological skills that prepare you specifically for a degree in business and social sciences. These include:
English Track
- Mathematics
- German
- Economics
- English
German Track
- Mathematik
- Deutsch
- Volkswirtschaftslehre
- Englisch
Additional Offers
Mentoring
Regular feedback on your performance and future plans
Buddy-Programm
Exchange with Prep4University alumni
Study Skills
Effective learning directly from your lecturers
Cooperation Partners
Your Path to the Studienkolleg Prep4University W-Course in Germany
To make sure you’re fully prepared for your studies in Germany, Prep4University guides you through a clearly structured application process – from the online application and document review to the final assessment exam (FSP). Here you’ll find everything you need to know about deadlines, requirements, and the steps of your application to the Studienkolleg in Cologne.
To apply for Prep4University, you will need proof of your secondary school education, evidence of your qualifications (German or English), a motivation letter, a CV, and a copy of your passport or ID card.
Application deadline for the summer semester (start in February): 6 January (for applicants without visa requirement) or 15 October (for applicants with visa requirement).
Application deadline for the winter semester (start in August): 6 August (for applicants without visa requirement) or 15 May (for applicants with visa requirement).
The Feststellungsprüfung (FSP) is a state-recognised final examination that enables international applicants to obtain their university entrance qualification for Germany after two semesters at the Prep4University Studienkolleg. Depending on your course (W or T track), you will be examined in subjects such as Mathematics, English or German, as well as Economics or Natural Sciences.
Application Process for the Studienkolleg Prep4University W-Course
Our application process is straightforward and transparent. At Studienkolleg Prep4University you do not need to sit an entrance examination – we review each application individually, saving you time, travel and exam stress. Once admitted, you will receive the official documents required for your visa application at the German Embassy (if applicable). We also support you in planning your stay in Germany, from finding accommodation to arranging health insurance. This allows you to focus entirely on your start at the Studienkolleg.
1
Online Application
Submit your documents, certificates and transcripts easily online or via email.
2
Assessment
No entrance exam required, we review your application individually.
3
Offer
If successful, you will receive your official admission letter and study place confirmation.
4
Payment
Pay your tuition fees flexibly: in one instalment, per semester, or monthly.
Choose the programme that suits you best
To make your decision easier, we have outlined the differences clearly below.
German Track
CLASSIC
External assessment test at the Cologne district government
- CBS student status
- Eligibility to study at a German university
- Guaranteed Bachelor study place at all CBS International Business School campuses
- Intensive lessons in small learning groups
Price: 6.000€
German Track
PREMIUM
Assessment test at CBS (commissioned by the Cologne district government)
- CBS student status
- Eligibility to study at a German university
- Guaranteed Bachelor study place at all CBS International Business School campuses
- Intensive lessons in small learning groups
- Prep + Feststellungsprüfung within 2 semesters
- Intensive exam preparation for the internal assessment test
- Full-Service Package
Price: 12.300€
English Track
PREMIUM
Assessment test at CBS (commissioned by the Cologne district government)
- CBS student status
- Eligibility to study at a German university
- Guaranteed Bachelor study place at all CBS International Business School campuses
- Intensive lessons in small learning groups
- Prep + Feststellungsprüfung within 2 semesters
- Intensive exam preparation for the internal assessment test
- Full-Service Package
Price: 12.300€
*The displayed prices are the tuition fees for two semesters, plus an enrollment fee of €600. As of October 2025
Inspriation and impact - what our alumni say
Every experience at the Studienkolleg is unique – yet all share one common goal: a successful start to studying in Germany. Read what our graduates say about their time at Prep4University.
Mariam Fahad
Alumna
“Being in a new country can be difficult but I really appreciate how friendly and cooperative the Prep4University team is. They always go the extra mile for their students, making sure we have everything we need throughout the programme. The teachers are great, the classes are highly engaging and fun.”
Anna Sullivan
Alumna
“Prep4University is a great academic and cultural starting point. It is a good way to get integrated in Germany, because you have a larger support system to help with the language and bureaucratic differences. On the academic side, it’s a great way to understand the teaching and learning styles to prepare yourself for your bachelor’s programme.”
Mustafa Farhan
Alumnus
“The programme is the perfect gateway to quality German education. I definitely had the best time ever, I was fortunate to meet the best teachers, mentors and of course friends of a lifetime. This course prepares you well in advance for your next educational steps and helps you settle into the country and the environment before the start of your bachelor’s.”
Jessica Bratsch
Alumna
“The Prep4University programme was a big step forward for me to be able to progress into my Bachelor studies here at CBS. I enjoyed the opportunities and events the programme offered to us. This gave me the chance to explore the city of Cologne with other Prep students in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.”
Yousef Kheradmand
Alumnus
“The Studienkolleg Prep4University provides you with the necessary skills and tools needed for your Bachelor studies. It helps you to improve both academically and personally.”
Giulia Queiroz
Alumna
„Prep4University gave me the opportunity to study in Germany, meet friends from all over the world and make long lasting connections. Thanks to this programme, I have the same opportunities as a German student. I improved my German and Math skills while slowly learning how to live abroad alone.“
Sohail Saleh
Alumnus
„I enjoyed the academic journey because it provided me with foundational knowledge that helped me at the beginning of my Bachelor studies and continues to do so. I highly encourage other international students to join us here for the multicultural campus and city as well as the professional support provided by the team. Picking Prep4University will propel you towards your future studies!“
FAQ: The most important questions about the Studienkolleg W-Course
Are you planning to join the Studienkolleg but still have questions about our W-Course? In our FAQs you will find all the key information about applications, requirements, fees and the course structure, clearly summarised and easy to understand.
What is the W-Course?
The W-Course prepares you specifically for a Bachelor’s degree in business and social sciences. At the end, you will sit the Feststellungsprüfung, which gives you university entrance eligibility in Germany.
Who is the W-Course for?
The W-Course is designed for international applicants who wish to study economics, business and social sciences in Germany but whose school qualification is not directly recognised as university entrance.
What subjects are taught in the W-Course?
Mathematics, Economics, German, English
How long does the W-Course take?
The W-Course lasts two semesters and includes both preparation and the Feststellungsprüfung.
What are the entry requirements?
- Secondary school qualification eligible for higher education (e.g. High School Diploma, A-Levels, Gaokao, IB Diploma)
- Motivation letter and CV
- Language proof: IELTS 6.0 / TOEFL iBT 72 / Duolingo 105 for the English Track, or German B2 (CEFR) for the German Track
Do I need German language skills for the W-Course?
For the German Track, B2-level German is required.
For the English Track, English proof is sufficient (no German needed).
If your German is not yet sufficient, you can take a preparatory semester with an intensive language course (A1–B1).
How much does the W-Course cost?
German Track Classic: €6,000 (plus €600 enrolment fee)
German Track Premium: €12,300 (plus €600 enrolment fee)
English Track Premium: €12,300 (plus €600 enrolment fee)
Is there a guaranteed university place after the W-Course?
Yes, you are guaranteed in a full-time bachelor’s study programme at all CBS campuses. In addition, with the Feststellungsprüfung you can also apply to other German universities.
How do I apply for the W-Course?
Submit your application online or via email. Within 2–3 days you will receive feedback on whether you meet the requirements.
When does the next W-Course start?
The W-Course begins at the start of each semester (February and August).
Request your brochure now!
Get your free brochure and learn more about:
- Entry requirements
- Application process
- Curriculum & fees
- Support with relocation planning (visa, accommodation & settling in Germany)
