Cologne

Cologne, Germany: Where International Business Meets Culture

Set along the picturesque Rhine River, Cologne is one of Germany’s most exciting and cosmopolitan cities—a place where ancient history and cutting-edge innovation live side by side. As Germany's fourth-largest city, Cologne is a dynamic hub for business, media, and technology, pulsing with creativity and global energy.

Famous for its awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral, lively riverside promenades, and colorful festivals, Cologne is also home to a diverse international community and a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. It’s a city that celebrates both tradition and progress—where students can explore Roman ruins by day and join one of Europe’s forward-thinking startup scenes by night.

For aspiring professionals, Cologne offers unmatched opportunity. With a strong presence of multinational corporations, innovative startups, and major media companies, the city is a launchpad for careers in business, marketing, tech, and beyond.

Right in the heart of this thriving metropolis is the Cologne Business School (CBS)—a top-tier institution offering internationally focused business programs in a dynamic, English-speaking environment. At CBS, students gain more than just a degree: they access a powerful network of global thinkers, corporate leaders, and international peers, all while studying in one of Europe’s leading economic regions.

Whether you’re networking with industry experts, enjoying a riverside coffee in the historic Altstadt, or exploring Germany’s rich culture and vibrant nightlife, Cologne offers a unique and unforgettable student experience that blends academic ambition with real-world opportunity.

Cologne Business School

In the heart of Cologne's thriving metropolis is Cologne Business School (CBS) – a top-tier institution offering internationally focused Business programs in a dynamic, English-speaking environment. You'll gain access to a powerful network of global thinkers, corporate leaders, and international peers, all while studying in one of Europe’s leading economic regions.

CBS’s guiding principle is, “Creating Tomorrow.” They prepare students to make an impact on day one of their career by offering practice-oriented teaching concepts that prepare students for both emerging industries and the demands of the job market. With around 1,300 corporate partners and personalized career support, CBS facilitates an optimal career start.

Early to recognize emerging trends, CBS introduced the American bachelor’s degree model in Germany, and in 2018 became the first German university to receive international IACBE accreditation (International Accreditation Council for Business Education). Additionally, CBS is accredited by the Foundation for International Business Administration (FIBAA).

The CBS campus is more than just a place to study – it’s a space for community, networking, and career preparation. In small groups, you’ll work with professors and fellow students on real-world case studies, learn from industry experts, and cultivate lasting networks.

The program includes local activities and excursions such as museums, city tours and cultural visits. Past examples have included: Museum Haus Der Geschichte, a hiking day in Drachenfels, and City Tour of Cologne.

Destinations and activities will vary by term. Please check your Program Calendar prior to departure for confirmation of excursion dates/locations.

Cologne Business School
Summer/Semester/Academic Year

• Requirements
  • Minimum GPA 2.50 (Students with a GPA between 2.49 and 2.00 will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Students with a 1.99 or lower will not be considered)
  • Language requirement: None. Courses are taught in English
  • At least 18 years of age
  • Currently enrolled in university
  • Completion of at least 2 semesters of Business, Management or Economics-related studies
  • Transcript (unofficial is acceptable). If you have attended more than one institution, you must submit a transcript from each institution attended.
  • ASA Application. To start a new application or continue an existing application, click here.
  • Scan of your valid passport that does not expire sooner than 6 months after the day you plan to return home from abroad. Please submit your passport application by expedited service if you do not have a valid passport.
  • For Application Deadlines, please click the Cost & Dates tab.

INCLUDED

• Exclusive "A WORLD OF CARE" Student Support Suite
• HOUSING in residence hall with kitchen facilities. Meals not included.
• TUITION for the maximum number of credits or courses indicated on the program course offerings page. Enrolling in more than the maximum number of credits/courses (if permitted by the host institution) will result in an additional fee.
• ACADEMIC CREDITS: Students who receive pre-approval from their home institution can transfer the credits they earn to their home institution.
• OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT: Final transcript is issued by Cologne Business School. Upon completion of the program, ASA will provide one free shipment of your final transcript to your U.S. institution.
• ACTIVITIES/EXCURSIONS: Semester and summer programs activities and local excursions. Locations change each term.
• INTERNET ACCESS: Students will have free Internet access at their host institution and in their program housing.
• AIRPORT PICK-UP: Group ground transportation is provided from Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) airport for students who arrive on the official arrival date, by the designated time.
• MEDICAL INSURANCE: Comprehensive international medical insurance is included. Click here for details on benefits and coverage.
• VISA ADVISING: Please click here and scroll down to “Student Visa Information” for details.
• PRE-DEPARTURE HANDBOOK & ON-SITE ORIENTATION
• SUBSCRIPTION TO SAFETURE SAFETY-ENHANCING MOBILE APP
• SUBSCRIPTION TO MINDHAMOK: a 24-7 service designed to support your mental, physical, and social wellbeing throughout your program. You can find out more about mindhamok in our Pre-Departure Guide for All Programs

NOT INCLUDED

• Round trip airfare and travel expenses to and from the program location
• Books, materials, lab fees
• Local transportation
• Personal expenses
• Meals
• Meals on excursions
• Residence Permit, if required
• Transportation back to the airport at the end of the program 

For academic year students and those enrolling in more than one session, housing, medical insurance, and other ASA services and benefits are not provided during the break between sessions. For academic year students, medical insurance during winter break can be purchased for an additional fee, if it is required to get your visa.

If you need a budget or Costs of Attendance, click here.