University of Cologne

University of Cologne is a top-ranking university in Germany, which has secured the rank #268 in QS World University Rankings - Best Global Universities 2024. It offers a variety of courses on undergraduate, graduate as well as Diploma level, both in German and Englilsh. However, international students must note that they do require a German language proficiency certificate at DSH-2 or higher in order to get enrolled in the university. Apart from this, the University of Cologne offers a variety of scholarships for international students in collaboration with other organisations, to support eligible candidates financially. Students must also consider the fact that studying in this university is extremely inexpensive or very affordable since the University of Cologne does not charge tuition fees. However, it is mandatory for all students to pay a social contribution fee of around EUR 250 per semester or EUR 500 per year. This fee also includes a public transit pass for busses and rail in North Rhine – Westphalia. Overall, it is a very good university among study abroad options.

University of Cologne is a top ranking university which offers a variety of courses on bachelor's, master's as well as doctorate level. All prospective students must follow the steps listed below in order to apply to the University of Cologne:

1) To apply for Medicine and Dentistry Courses:

• Applicants can apply using the portal of the Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung (Hochschulstart).

2) To apply for DoSV Courses:

• Applicants can apply using the online application portal Klips 2.0 of the University of Cologne. Before applying, applicants must register with the Stiftung für Hochschulzulassung. There they will receive user data (BID/BAN number) which is required to enter in the Klips 2.0 application. 

3) To apply for all other Courses:

• Applicants can apply using the online application portal Klips 2.0 of the University of Cologne.

While applying to the University, the candidate must submit all the relevant documents, which include:

• Signed application form (printout from the KLIPS 2.0 online application)
• Copy of passport or identification card and a passport photo
• Legally certified copy of secondary school leaving certificate and a transcript of subjects and marks  (with translation if not issued in English or French)
• Legally certified copy of a German language proficiency certificate (DSH-2 or higher)

Once an applicant is admitted in the University of Cologne, they must formally accept the offer of admission within five days using their KLIPS 2.0 account (University of Cologne's online application portal). If they do not accept it within five days, the offer of admission will expire. Candidates are also advised to download their admission notification letter using their KLIPS 2.0 account.

Once an applicant is admitted in the University of Cologne, they must formally accept the offer of admission within five days using their KLIPS 2.0 account (University of Cologne's online application portal). If they do not accept it within five days, the offer of admission will expire. Candidates are also advised to download their admission notification letter using their KLIPS 2.0 account. To enroll as a student in the University of Cologne post receiving the admission offer, students must follow the steps listed below:

• Pay the entire semester fee;
• Upload a photograph to KLIPS 2.0 for electronic student ID (UCCard); and
• Submit the documents needed for enrolment.

The student's KLIPS 2.0 account will specify which documents are required for their enrolment, but most students must submit the following general requirements:

• Signed enrolment application form
• Proof of health insurance coverage
• A certificate that the applicant has been removed from the student register (for students who have previously been enrolled at a German university)
• A German language proficiency certificate at DSH-2 or higher

Students admitted to Medical studies or Dentistry via Hochschulstart must submit the following additional documents for enrolment:

• Copy of passport or identification card and a passport photo
• Legally certified copy of secondary school leaving certificate and a transcript of subjects and marks and any transcripts from studies abroad (with translation if not issued in English or French)
• A signed consent form for participation in the pilot degree programme (only for Medicine)

In order to get enrolled for a degree course at the University Of Cologne, applicants must fulfill certain entry requirements. Mentioned below are the academic requirements from prospective students according to the choice of degree:

1) Bachelor's Courses:

• High school certificate;
• Formal university entrance qualification to German universities (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung);
• English language proficiency score; and
• German-language proficiency at level DSH-2 or equivalent.

Note: A few University of Cologne courses have specific entry requirements. Hence, students are advised to go through the university's website for detailed information.

2) Master's Courses:

• Bachelor's degree;
• Formal university entrance qualification to German universities (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung);
• English language proficiency score; and
• German-language proficiency at level DSH-2 or equivalent.

Note: A few University of Cologne master's courses have specific entry requirements. Hence, students are advised to go through the university's website for detailed information.

3) Doctoral Courses:

• Completion of at least 4 years at an university followed by an exam and usually a Master thesis;
• Formal university entrance qualification to German universities (Hochschulzugangsberechtigung);
• English language proficiency score; and
• German-language proficiency at level DSH-2 or equivalent.