Preparatory courses
Preparatory German courses and foundation courses
To study in Germany, you will need a higher education entrance qualification. Depending on your country of origin, a proof of German language proficiency (DSH exam) is sufficient, or a supplementary course - Studienkolleg or, especially in Saarland, the International foundation programme (VSI) is necessary. Both qualifications are offered by the International Study Centre Saar (ISZ Saar) at Saarland University and may be taken by applicants preparing to study at the University. The courses are free of charge for most applicant groups.
Applicants may participate in these courses if they have applied to study their chosen academic programme (at Saarland University or htw saar within the application deadline and applied for the preparatory German course and received confirmation of their place or if they are studying as part of an exchange or partnership programme (at Saarland University or htw saar).
Please note the information on the application of international applicants at Saarland University!
Preparatory German courses
For all proficiency levels A0 to C1, also for complete beginners. These courses prepare applicants for the DSH exam (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang).
Contact hours: 20-26 hours per week.
Optional propaedeutic modules as well as tutorials can be chosen as compulsory elective subjects in addition to the German language programme.
Examinations
- DSH - German language examination for university admission / Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (fee: 100 Euro)
- International foundation programme (VSI)- Intermediate examination, enables transition to trial studies (free of charge)
How to contact us
You can reach the ISZ Saar secretariat on Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12.30 p.m. to 2 p.m. by phone at +49 (0) 681 - 302 2850.
In order for us to better process your enquiries by e-mail, please decide which contact address is right for you. Please contact if you have questions
- as already enrolled participants of the DSH and VSiMINT courses (Preparatory courses):
Ms Barthel-Weyand info-isz(at)uni-saarland.de - for German language and special skills courses during the semester (In-sessional courses and short-intensive courses):
Ms Koch: deutschkurse(at)isz.uni-saarland.de - for in-sessional workshops from International academic culture:
Ms Koch, Ms Gisch wissenschaft-international(at)isz.uni-saarland.de
If you have any questions regarding your application to the UdS or enrolment in study-preparatory DSH and VSI courses, please only contact the team of the Admissions Office (e-mail: studium(at)uni-saarland.de)
International Study Centre Saar (ISZ Saar)
Director: Dr. Michael Aulbach
Secretary: Stefanie Barthel-Weyand
Phone: +49 (0) 681 302-2850
Fax: +49 (0) 681 302-2824
info-isz(at)uni-saarland.de