Everyday life at the Studienkolleg

• Lessons: Lessons take place in small groups. Attendance at all classes / courses is compulsory for all students (usually: Mon-Fri, 8:00-16:00).
• Performance assessments: There are regular tests and invigilated (written) examinations each semester. To progress to the second semester, you need a grade of at least "sufficient" in all subjects.
• Repetition: A semester can be repeated once for performance reasons.
• Timetable: You can find your current timetable here.

Costs & financing

The following fees and expenses must be planned for:

• Semester fee: All students pay a fee for the student union and student body each semester. This also includes the Germany semester ticket, which is valid on all public transport in Germany. From winter semester 2025/26, the fee will be EUR 332.13.
• Student ID card (Campus Card): A Campus Card is issued once. It is also available digitally via the Campus App and is required to use the Deutschlandsemesterticket.
• Teaching materials & books: Expenses for teaching materials and books may be incurred per semester.
• Other work equipment: Additional one-off costs may be incurred for calculators, reference books or other work equipment.

• Rent in the hall of residence: approx. 180-270 €
• Health insurance: from approx. 110 €
• Meals, leisure & everyday life: around €200

In total, you should expect to pay around €550-650 per month, depending on the type of accommodation and lifestyle.

During the Studienkolleg, you can work during the semester break if you meet the relevant requirements. There are also occasional small jobs on campus, e.g. in the library, in laboratories or at events.

Leisure & campus life

Zittau is located in the border triangle of Germany, Poland and the Czech Republic and is the ideal place for your preparatory year. The city is safe, affordable and offers you a high quality of life: short distances, lots of nature and a friendly atmosphere.

Whether you like to be active, love culture or want to meet new people - here you will find plenty of leisure activities on campus, in the city and in the surrounding area.

• City & nature: Discover the historic old town of Zittau, the Zittau Mountains with the narrow-gauge railroad(YouTube video) and Lake Olbersdorf.
• University sports: Choose from over 40 sports (fitness, volleyball, swimming, yoga, etc.), take part in sports camps or tournaments.
• Sports clubs in Zittau : Join one of the many sports clubs - from soccer and handball to climbing and winter sports - and become part of the active community in Zittau.
• Campus life & events: Meet other students in the DeZiBar, in the Star Club or at university parties and events such as the International Dinner.
• Discover the region: Take trips to Poland, the Czech Republic, Prague or Dresden. You can explore numerous excursion tips with your Deutschlandsemesterticket.