DAAD VORsprung - Digital preparation for a STEM degree programme in Germany

12.02.2025|17:53 Uhr

With VORsprung, the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers a digital study preparation programme for international prospective students in the STEM fields (mathematics, computer science, natural sciences, technology) for easier access to higher education and an uncomplicated start to their studies in Germany. The programme is funded by the Federal Foreign Office and will enter its second project phase in January 2025 until the end of 2027. The University of Wuppertal is participating in the implementation of the current programme cycle together with ten other partner universities from Germany. Interested parties can apply now until the end of June 2026.

What does DAAD VORsprung offer?

It was developed in cooperation with German universities and preparatory colleges and enables students to prepare for a degree programme in Germany from their home country in just six to eight months - digitally, flexibly and at no cost to the participants. In addition to an intensive German course, the subject-specific part of the study and exam preparation programme focuses on mathematics and science. The programme concludes with the already established TestAS and TestDaF examination formats. VORsprung is aimed specifically at prospective students in the so-called STEM subjects, which continue to make up the majority of international students in Germany outside the European Union.

 

Who is the target group of DAAD VORsprung?

International prospective students worldwide who:

  • aspire to study a STEM subject in Germany and would like to start a degree programme in one of the selected degree programmes at the partner universities with alternative university access,
  • have acquired the indirect university entrance qualification for studying in Germany in their home country,
  • have a German language level of at least B1.2 (or equivalent).
  • Refugees in Germany who fulfil the above application requirements are also eligible.

 

Advantages of DAAD VORsprung at a glance

  • Digital study preparation from the home country (6-8 months)
  • Intensive German course (optional) to achieve the required language level
  • Subject-specific preparation in maths, physics, chemistry or computer science
  • Recognised university entrance examinations (TestAS and TestDaF)
  • Intensive support from subject and language tutors
  • Flexible, free participation through online formats
  • Networking with other international participants

 

Course of the DAAD VORsprung programme

The preparation period lasts a total of six to eight months:

  • 6 weeks of preceding digital intensive German language course (depending on language level)
  • 2 introductory weeks
  • 24 weeks of subject-specific preparation and preparatory language modules
  • 2 weeks of flexible breaks/holidays/independent exam preparation

 

Possible procedure for participants at DAAD VORsprung

 

STEM degree programmes at the university of Wuppertal for graduates of DAAD VORsprung

Applied Science
Civil Engineering
Chemistry
Electrical Engineering
Computer Science
Information Technology and Media Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Mathematics
Physics
Transport Engineering
Business Mathematics
Security Engineering
Smart and Sustainable Systems

Programme content of DAAD VORsprung

Specialised modules

The well-founded, standardised technical preparation for studying in Germany comprises the subjects of the technology course (T-course) of a German Studienkolleg: mathematics, physics, chemistry and computer science. This curriculum, which was developed by the universities involved in the project, is offered on a modular basis. Participants take two of the four modules that are suitable for their future course of study, usually the mathematics module plus a further subject module; the required course combination for a specific degree programme is explained to the course participants in advance.

 

Language modules

To consolidate their language skills and prepare them for studying at a German university, all participants complete selected modules from Deutsch-Uni Online (DUO).

There are two options: For language entry skills at level B2.1 (CEFR) or higher, participants take modules that prepare them for the TestDaF in a targeted manner and in parallel with the specialised modules.

In the case of language proficiency at level B1.2 (CEFR), an intensive German language course is also held beforehand, which brings participants up to level B2.1 (CEFR) within 6 weeks of starting the course.

These modules also teach strategies and techniques for academic work and university-specific communication.

 

Tutoring

VORsprung is largely a programme that is independent of time and place, in which participants are expected to take responsibility and motivation. However, in order to provide participants with the best possible support, contact persons are available on the Moodle learning platform for subject-specific, technical and personal questions.

Specialist tutors are available to provide specialist support:

  • in synchronous online tutorials
  • in digital consultation hours
  • for the correction of submitted assignments

Experienced tutors from Deutsch-Uni Online are available to provide support for language preparation.

Technical support and personal questions are dealt with by the DAAD Community Management . This includes

  • personal support
  • Networking among the participants
  • Contact and assistance in the event of difficulties during the programme

 

Prospective students can register for DAAD VORsprung until the end of June 2025

VORsprung is funded by the DAAD with funds from the Federal Foreign Office (AA).