News

20. August 2026

Ready to Start College

54 young people from 17 countries have achieved their goal—and now, for many of them, their studies at a German university are about to begin.

At the 'Studienkolleg' (preparatory college) of the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, a total of 54 graduates received their diplomas in the summer semester of 2026. Having passed the qualifying exam or the German Language Proficiency Test for University Admission, they now meet the requirements for studying at a German university. Many of them will continue their education at the University of Zittau/Görlitz (HSZG).

The graduation ceremony took place on the Zittau campus. Together with family members, faculty, and guests from the university and the city, the graduates celebrated their successful degree completion.

In his commencement address, the Rector of the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences, Prof. Dr.-Ing. Alexander Kratzsch, paid special tribute to the students’ courage and perseverance. Moving to Germany, learning a new language, and preparing for university studies required great dedication.

Great goals are rarely achieved through individual feats of brilliance, but rather through the little things you do day in and day out. That is exactly what you have demonstrated during your time at the 'Studienkolleg' (preparatory college).

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Alexander Kratzsch, Rector of Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences

At the same time, he thanked Academic Director Ellen Leuschner and the entire team at the 'Studienkolleg' (preparatory college) for their dedicated support of international prospective students as they navigate their way into the German higher education system.

Successful Degrees from the 'Studienkolleg' (preparatory college): 54 Young People from 17 Countries

A total of 46 graduates received a degree certificate for the Proficiency Examination (FSP). Of these, 27 successfully completed the Technology track and 19 successfully completed the Economics track. An additional 8 graduates passed the German Language Examination for University Admission (DSH). The graduates come from 17 different countries, including Vietnam, Ukraine, India, Syria, Morocco, and Poland.

The majority completed their degree within the standard duration: 33 students passed the proficiency exam after two semesters. Of the DSH graduates, seven completed the degree within one semester.

What happens after the 'Studienkolleg' (preparatory college)?

How did the graduates experience their time at the 'Studienkolleg' (preparatory college)—and what’s next for them? In the video, they share their experiences and plans. The Rector and university staff also offer insights into the importance of the 'Studienkolleg' and its role in international educational pathways.

Good prospects for future education

Many graduates have already received provisional admission to study at Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences. Others will begin their studies at other universities in Saxony. Having successfully completed their degree at the 'Studienkolleg', they are now ready to continue their educational journey in Germany.

Background

The 'Studienkolleg' at the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences prepares international prospective students with varying levels of prior academic education for a degree program at HSZG or another university in Saxony. In addition to learning German, they acquire the academic prerequisites necessary for successful study.

For more information on academic preparation for international prospective students can be found on the 'Studienkolleg' (preparatory college) website.

Ihre Ansprechperson
Graduate with a Diplom in Slavic Studies
Ellen Leuschner
'Studienkolleg' (preparatory college)
02763 Zittau
Schwenninger Weg 1
Building Z VII, Room 210
2nd upper floor
+49 3583 612-4876