Junger Mann in einer Bankreihe im Hörsaal
© Universität des Saarlandes

The international foundation programme 'VSI Business Science and Economics' at Saarland University offers international students whose school-leaving qualifications do not meet the requirements for direct entry to an undergraduate programme the opportunity to study for one of the following Bachelor's degrees:

During a preparatory phase, participants are first prepared for their studies at Saarland University in terms of language and subject knowledge. The VSI Economics programme includes German courses at all levels from A0 to B1 (beginners) and B2 to C1 (advanced). German language skills are assessed at the ISZ Saar at the beginning of the programme through a language screening test. This is followed by further tests and placement in the appropriate course levels.
After successfully completing this phase, you can take a trial course in one of the three degree programmes. After successfully completing the trial course, you can continue your studies in your chosen degree programme. 

Programme requirements and the application process

Preparatory phase

The preparatory phase of the 'VSI Business Science and Economics' comprises:

  • a German course for beginners or advanced learners, depending on your current language level
  • preparatory modules and teaching activities (academic study skills)
  • a language module 'English'
  • an orientation semester that includes student-tutor feedback sessions and modules/courses from the study plan for the chosen degree programme.

Students do not need to take the German language course if they can prove that they already have the required level of proficiency in German.

Access phase

After the initial preparatory stage, students progress to the access phase of the VSI programme, which lasts no more than four semesters. During the access phase, students are required to meet the requirements set out in the study regulations and study plan of their chosen undergraduate degree programme and to complete the VSI-specific modules 'Organizing your Studies for Success' and the student-tutor feedback sessions.

To successfully complete the access phase of the VSI foundation programme, students must earn 40 ECTS credits in accordance with the study regulations for their selected degree programme. They have a maximum of four semesters in which to achieve this target. Students who meet this target will be deemed to have met the subject-specific entrance qualification for undergraduate study at Saarland University and may continue studying in the selected Bachelor's programme.

Fragen?

Dr. Michael Aulbach
Internationales Studienzentrum Saar
Tel.: +49 681 302-2850
michael.aulbach(at)isz.uni-saarland.de