General Higher Education Entrance Qualification
The General Higher Education Entrance Qualification, also known as Abitur, allows access to all degree programs at universities and universities of applied sciences in Germany. It is usually obtained after successfully completing the upper secondary school level. The Abitur encompasses a comprehensive general education and is attained by passing the Abitur examinations at the end of the 12th or 13th grade.
Subject-Specific Higher Education Entrance Qualification
The Subject-Specific Higher Education Entrance Qualification only entitles students to study specific subjects at universities and universities of applied sciences. It is typically acquired at vocational high schools or through attending a specialized secondary school. In contrast to the general higher education entrance qualification, it restricts the choice of study programs to specific areas that were the focus of schooling.
Higher Education Entrance Qualification for Universities of Applied Sciences
The Higher Education Entrance Qualification for Universities of Applied Sciences allows access to universities of applied sciences and some universities in Germany. It is often acquired through attending a specialized secondary school or a vocational high school and includes both a theoretical and practical component. The practical part is usually fulfilled through a one-year internship or completed Vocational Training (Ausbildung).
Professional Qualification
In some federal states, a professional qualification can also allow access to a study program. This is especially true for individuals with a completed Vocational Training (Ausbildung) and several years of work experience. Special entrance examinations or competency assessments may be necessary. Examples include the master craftsman’s certificate or a qualification as a state-certified technician.
International Qualifications
International qualifications may also be recognized as higher education entrance qualifications. This depends on the type of qualification and the country of origin. Often, additional recognition procedures are required to determine whether the foreign qualification is equivalent to the German Abitur. Information on this is provided by the Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs (KMK) and the respective universities.
University Entrance Examination
Applicants without formal higher education entrance qualifications have the opportunity to gain access to a study program through a university entrance examination or a giftedness test. These examinations are regulated differently depending on the federal state and university. Typically, it is an examination that demonstrates the applicant’s suitability and qualification for a study program.
Preparatory College
Applicants with foreign educational qualifications that are not recognized as direct higher education entrance qualifications in Germany can attend a preparatory college. This prepares them for study through special courses and concludes with a qualifying examination that is recognized as a higher education entrance qualification. Preparatory colleges offer various specialized courses to prepare for specific fields of study.
Dual Study Programs
Special access conditions often apply to dual study programs. In addition to the higher education entrance qualification, a training contract with a company is usually required. These study programs combine a university education with practical training in the company. As a result, students gain both theoretical and practical knowledge, enhancing their prospects for a professional career.
Recognition Procedures
The recognition of foreign qualifications is carried out by the relevant authorities of the universities or specialized recognition agencies. This can vary depending on the federal state and university. It is advisable to clarify recognition early to ensure that all required documents and proofs are available in time.