Drei Studierende laufen über den Ernst-Abbe-Campus in Jena

International Pathway Programme

For international prospective students without a qualification directly entitling them to study in Germany
Drei Studierende laufen über den Ernst-Abbe-Campus in Jena
Image: Christoph Worsch (University of Jena)
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What is the International Pathway Programme?

The International Pathway Programme is an alternative to visiting a preparatory college.

It is aimed at international prospective students who meet the following requirements: 

  • No german citizenship

    The International Pathway Programme ist not open to German applicants. German citizens can find out more here.

    Admission requirements pathway programme

  • A very good TestAS result

    External link

    A score of at least 50 points in the core test and at least 100 points in the field of study-specific test is required or, in the case of the paper-based TestAS, at least 90 points in the core test and 100 points in the field of study-specific part. The field-specific part must correspond to your desired course of study.

    Admission requirements pathway programme

How does the International Pathway Programme work?

The International Pathway Programme allows you to demonstrate your ability to study your chosen degree programme. 
First you will study two semesters just like regular students. After two semesters, you must have earned at least 30 credit points (regular students require 60 credit points). This way have passed the subject-specific entrance examination that qualifies you to study at the University of Jena. Following these first two semesters, you continue your studies as a regular student. Your standard period of study is extended by one year.

Please note that the university entrance qualification obtained through the Pathway Programme is subject-specific. The entrance examination is only valid for the University of Jena and cannot be used for other universities.

placeholder image — Logo podcast international
Study Without University Entrance Qualification: The International Pathway Programme

We get to know about this alternative to the preparatory college talking with student Matvii

Graphic: Sabine Müller · Audio: University of Jena

Language requirements

The following examinations are recognized as language ceritifcates:

  • the Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH), level DSH-2
  • the Goethe-Zertifikat C2 (GDS)
  • the Deutsche Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz (DSD II)
  • the TestDaF, at least TDN 4 in all four parts of the examination
  • the Zertifikat telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule (at least grade "satisfactory")

If you still have to take the DSH-2 exam, you can apply for conditional admission. Anyone wishing to do so must provide proof of participation in German courses where the exam taken is at post-intermediate level (C1). This conditional admission will only become effective if the a required certificate is submitted by the enrolment date.

You do not yet have sufficient language skills? Then please apply for the preparatory college (Studienkolleg).

Furthermore we recommend taking German courses at our Language Centre during your studies to further deepen and broaden your language competence.

Required documents and preparation for the application

  1. Scan all documents mentioned below and save them as PDF files under specific names.
  2. Have all documents at hand when filling in the online application, because you will need to insert data from them.
  • University entrance qualification:
    • a copy of your original school leaving certificate and university entrance examination (if taken) with a sworn translation (into German or English)
  • Prior degree programme:
    • a copy of the transcript of records for your prior studies with a sworn translation (into German or English)
  • the TestAS certificate 
  • Knowledge of the German language:
  • a CV (in tabular format)
  • Chinese, Indian and Vietnamese applicants: the original certificate issued by the Akademische Prüfstelle as proof of your academic achievements
  • If you are a minor (under the age of 18), please also submit a parental consent [pdf, 746 kb]pdf, 746 kb · de.

Definition: sworn translation

Certificates must always be translated by an official body, e.g. the issuing institution or a sworn translator. 

Application process, period and portal

Please note that while all degree programmes offered at the University can be started in the winter semester, the range of programmes that can be started in the summer semester is limited.

  • Application period for the summer semester: 1 December to 15 January
  • Application period for the winter semester: 1 May to 15 July
  1. Contact the International Office.
  2. Register at the online application portalExternal link. Save your login and password. This enables you to use the online platform later without having to re-register. 
  3. Complete the online application and upload all required documents.
  4. You will be able to check the status of your application in the portal by entering your username and password.
  5. Please regularly check your emails for new messages regarding your application.
  6. If you receive a letter of admission, it will include further instructions.

Individual Study Plan: Support and Guidance

Note that the recommended study plans are esigned for regular studies, not the Pathway Programme.

Actively seek the guidance and advice of your programme's academic advisory service (contact information in the programme description) to plan your studies during the first two semesters.

Do not miss the Study Orientation Days.

We also recommend registering for the Academic Mentoring Programme for international students.

Information materials

Contact

Cornelia Dwars

Universitätshauptgebäude, Room 0.18
Fürstengraben 1
07743 Jena Google Maps site planExternal link

Please mind the office hours.