Backgrounds : Pre-College Fulda & Pre-College+

Anyone wishing to study in Germany requires a direct university entrance qualification (HZB). However, many prospective international students - especially those from non-EU countries - initially only have indirect access to higher education. The traditional routes to obtaining the HZB are additional academic years in the country of origin or attending a foundation year (‘Studienkolleg’) in Germany.

Unique in Germany
With the Pre-College (2019-2022) and Pre-College+ (2023-2027) projects, Fulda University of Applied Sciences has developed an innovative approach that is unique in Germany and prepares prospective international students for university studies and careers in Germany in a holistic and practical manner.

From study entry to early career orientation

The aim of the Pre-College project was to make it easier for prospective international students without a direct HZB to gain access to university studies in Germany. Building on this experience, the follow-up project Pre-College+ was designed and strategically developed further.
Pre-College+ expands the classic study preparation to include systematic career orientation and career preparation even before the start of programme. The project thus responds specifically to two key challenges:

• the increasing shortage of skilled workers in Germany
• students dropping out of university and facing difficulties in transitioning into the labour market

Not all future students are equally suited to university studies. At the same time, the dual system of professional training is often little known or underestimated internationally. Pre-College+ supports participants in making informed and realistic educational decisions - whether for a degree course or vocational training in Germany.

The unique selling point: study preparation, career guidance and regional networking from a single source

A central feature of Pre-College Fulda is the simultaneous preparation for different education and career paths. As early as the preparatory year, participants engage intensively with the German labour market, complete orientation internships and establish contacts with companies in the Fulda and East Hesse region at an early stage.
The close involvement of the International Career Service and collaboration with regional enterprises creates an interface between the university and the labour market that provides international participants with sustainable support during their transition to university studies, training and professional life.
At the same time, participants receive individual support from the International Office - from the application stage through to the preparatory year. This includes, amongst other things, assistance with visa and residence matters, finding accommodation, applications for study or training places, as well as needs-based counselling and additional services.

Contribution to securing skilled workers in the region

With Pre-College+, Fulda University of Applied Sciences makes an active contribution to recruiting and retaining skilled labour in the region of Fulda, East Hesse and beyond. International talents are not only provided with academic qualifications, but are also specifically prepared for a successful entry into the German labour market.

Funding

• Pre-College (2019-2022): funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) and the state of Hesse
• Pre-College+ (01.04.2023-31.03.2027): funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) and the State of Hesse (HMWK)