Applicants to the FU-BEST program

• need to be at least 18 years old

• should be in their third semester or beyond at a 4-year university or college

• should have a very good command of English in order to complete a rigorous academic program in that language (non-native speakers should plan to submit English test scores along with their application. For TOEFL, the score should be minimally on a B2 level (scores of 72 to 94). For IELTS, the overall score must be at least 6.5 and the scores on individual parts must be no lower than 6.0.)

• should be committed to participation in our intensive German language component (all levels offered, no prior knowledge of German required)

• should have a GPA of at least 3.0 (students whose GPA is below 3.0 are welcome to apply, but cannot be guaranteed admission to the program until their overall qualifications are more closely reviewed)

only for the GermanPLUS⁺ package:

• should have German language abilities on the C1 or C2 level (Advanced 1 or 2)

Limitations

The FU-BEST program operates within logistical enrollment limitations. Admission is basically granted on a rolling basis, whereby formal program partner institutions receive additional preferential consideration. Students whose applications are submitted after a maximum feasible enrollment has been reached (although perhaps still prior to the regular deadline) are placed on a waiting list.

Non-discrimination Policy

Admission will not be denied on the basis of race, ethnic or national origin, creed, gender/sex, religion, disability, age, familial/marital status or sexual orientation/identity.

Course enrollment

Course enrollment is carried out on a first-come-first-served basis. As a result, a) it is recommended to apply as early as possible, b) it is not guaranteed that students get their top course choice(s) upon admission.

Immigration & Visa

If you are not a citizen of an EU member-country, the USA or Canada, you will almost certainly need a visa in order to enter Germany and participate in the FU-BEST program. It is your personal responsibility to obtain such a visa in the country where you are currently studying, using the admission letter we provide via e-mail. It is possible to arrange an appointment with a German consulate/embassy before receiving the admission letter so be sure to take care of this matter in a timely manner! Please check with the German embassy or consulate in the country where you are currently studying and read through our Visa Information for International Students (pdf).