The Welcome@FUBerlin program started in 2015 as a way to help refugees in Berlin and Brandenburg continue their studies without interruption or start a degree program here. More than 200 students participate in the German language courses and preparatory classes each year at Freie Universität Berlin. The program receives support from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the Berlin Senate.

The Welcome@FUBerlin program provides language and orientation courses according to a student’s language level, ranging from B1 to C1. Participants also have the opportunity to meet with a university student “buddy” as well as tandem language partners. They can also sign up for free courses though the University Sports program. Visiting student status is also an option and allows participants to attend certain university courses or lectures free of charge. If their language skills are sufficient, they can also complete coursework for credits that can later be transferred to their degree program. The university especially encourages women and parents to apply to the Welcome@FUBerlin program.