
Foundation Year
Foundation Year
The Foundation Year is your perfect start at Frankfurt School!
Over the course of two semesters, you will prepare specifically for one of our three bachelor’s programmes and gain a solid foundation in mathematics, economics and English.
Our tailored curriculum, practical learning content and access to an innovative learning environment prepare you perfectly for a smooth transition into one of our bachelor’s programmes.
This programme is perfect for you if you are motivated to strengthen your academic foundation, improve your English skills and prepare yourself for student life in Germany.
Qualification
Entry to Bachelor Studies at Frankfurt School
Language
English
Duration
Full-time | 2 Semesters
Tuition Fee
€14,000
+ 400 € enrolment fee
Application Deadline
31 May 2026
Start Date
September 2026
The Foundation Year is your perfect start at Frankfurt School!
Over the course of two semesters, you will prepare specifically for one of our three bachelor’s programmes and gain a solid foundation in mathematics, economics and English.
Our tailored curriculum, practical learning content and access to an innovative learning environment prepare you perfectly for a smooth transition into one of our bachelor’s programmes.
This programme is perfect for you if you are motivated to strengthen your academic foundation, improve your English skills and prepare yourself for student life in Germany.

Focus & Format
Target Group
The Foundation Year is for students not yet eligible for Frankfurt School’s Bachelor programmes, who wish to strengthen skills in math, economics, or English, or need time to adjust to studying and living in Germany before starting their degree.
This programme is perfect for you if you:
- You do not yet feel fully confident in mathematics and statistics
- Your school did not offer courses in business or data science
- You are moving to Germany for the first time and would like a “soft landing” – both academically and culturally
- If you just missed direct entry to the Bachelor, this is where you build a solid foundation
Study Model
The one-year programme (two semesters) is taught entirely in English. In the second semester, you can choose one of three specialisations that will perfectly prepare you for one of our three bachelor’s programmes.
Focus & Format
Target Group
The Foundation Year is for students not yet eligible for Frankfurt School’s Bachelor programmes, who wish to strengthen skills in math, economics, or English, or need time to adjust to studying and living in Germany before starting their degree.
This programme is perfect for you if you:
- You do not yet feel fully confident in mathematics and statistics
- Your school did not offer courses in business or data science
- You are moving to Germany for the first time and would like a “soft landing” – both academically and culturally
- If you just missed direct entry to the Bachelor, this is where you build a solid foundation
Study Model
The one-year programme (two semesters) is taught entirely in English. In the second semester, you can choose one of three specialisations that will perfectly prepare you for one of our three bachelor’s programmes.

Programme Highlights
- Tailored curriculum to suit individual student needs, ensuring a smooth transition to our bachelor programmes
- Dedicated mentoring and advisory services to guide students throughout their journey
- Solid foundational courses in Mathematics, Economics, and Business Studies to equip students for future academic challenges
- Promotes language skills and academic performance
- Access to Frankfurt School‘s state- of-the-art campus facilities and resources, providing a conducive learning environment
APPLICATION PROCESS
Online-Application
Assessment Centre
Admission Decision
Programme Start
Admission Requirements
If you would like to apply for the Foundation Year, we need the following:
- Recognised Secondary School Leaving Certificate (that qualifies you for university studies in the country where you graduated) or your two most recent transcripts.
- Motivational Letter (optional but recommended)
- CV/ résumé
- Passport or ID card (scan)
- Participation in a mandatory Admissions Interview and an Online English Assessment.
Curriculum
In the first semester, you will strengthen your knowledge and explore all three Bachelor programmes at Frankfurt School. In the second semester, you will choose one of three specialisations which will prepare you for your desired Bachelor of Science programme.


FAQ about Foundation Year
No. Our Foundation Year is Frankfurt School’s own preparatory programme, not a state Studienkolleg. Successful completion guarantees admission to one of our Bachelor of Science programmes. Other universities decide independently whether they recognise the Foundation Year.
Currently, we do not offer scholarships specifically for the Foundation Year. However, with excellent grades and strong extracurricular engagement during the programme, you may qualify for merit scholarships that can help finance part of your subsequent bachelor studies.
Yes. The English test may be waived if you provide one of the following official language certificates with a minimum level of B2 (CEFR): TOEFL iBT, IELTS (Academic), Cambridge English, or Pearson Test of English Academic.
No. The programme is taught entirely in English. If you would like to learn German, we offer free language courses at different levels on campus.
Please contact our Admissions Team – we’ll be happy to help.
18.7
26
30%
70%
24%
13%
19%
13%
31%

Ready to apply?
We look forward to receiving your application via our application portal. Our recruitment team is happy to assist should you have questions.