Study Abroad in 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.

 

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Cologne Building Facade
Cologne Cathedral
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Academics & Eligibility

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.

 

Semester Course & Credit Overview

  • Language Requirement: None. Classes are taught in English.

  • Eligibility: Completion of at least 2 semesters of Business, Management, or Economics-related studies is required. For full Eligibility requirements, see this page.

  • Possible U.S. Credits: 4-5 modules (courses) for a total of 12-15 US semester credits.

  • Final Transcript: Issued by Cologne Business School

  • Each semester at CBS consists of 12 weeks of lectures and 2 weeks of exams.

  • At Cologne Business School, a module is what we call a course or class. Each module (course) generally equates to 6 ECTS (3 US semester credits). 30 ECTS (15 US credits) is the maximum allowed per semester. You must take a minimum of 24 ECTS (12 US credits) during your semester abroad. 

  • Students have the option of selecting a certificate program during the application process. 

Summer Course & Credit Overview

  • Semester possible U.S. Credits: 4-5 modules (courses) for a total of 12-15 US semester credits.

  • Summer possible U.S. Credits: 1-2 modules (courses) for a total of 3-6 US semester credits.

  • Final Transcript: Issued by Cologne Business School

Eligibility Criteria

  • 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.

Course Finder

Semester:

Before choosing your semester courses, review the Cologne Business School Semester Course Offerings & Requirements.

 

Students selecting the Certificate Option will take 3 core courses and 2 elective courses, totaling 30 ECTS / 15 US credits. By completing the full course bundle, students will earn a CBS Business Studies Certificate, issued alongside the official CBS transcript. Alternatively, students may choose a non-certificate path, which includes 2 core courses (both must be from the same certificate program) and 2 to 3 elective courses, totaling 24 - 30 ECTS / 12 - 15 US credits. Students following this option will not earn a CBS Business Studies Certificate, though all completed courses will appear on their final CBS transcript.

 

There are 8 certificate programs available, each representing a distinct area of academic focus within business studies. Choose from International Business,  Consulting & Entrepreneurship, Digital Technology, AI & E-Commerce, International Trade & Emerging Markets, Business Psychology, Business Models & AI, Banking & Corporate Finance, and Financial Analysis & Investment.

 

Semester students must have 4 elective courses approved for transfer by your home university (2 more than you actually plan to take). This will give you back-ups in case of changes in availability or schedule conflicts.

 

Summer:

Summer students planning to take 1 course must have at least 2 courses approved. Students planning to take 2 courses must have all 3 courses approved. This will give you back-ups in case of changes in availability or schedule conflicts. 

 

Use the filters above to search for courses or click "View All Courses" to browse available courses on this program.

Costs & Dates

Program pricing and important dates.

Program dates are subject to change. Although date changes are rare, they are typically changes made by the host institution and are, therefore, outside of ASA’s control. If any changes are made to your program dates, ASA is not responsible for fees or losses associated with changing or canceling your plane ticket, additional lodging and other travel costs, etc.

 

Please do not book a plane ticket until you are accepted to an ASA program and receive written notification of your program’s arrival and departure date.

 

* Prices subject to change. Financial aid available.

ASA is a small program, but that’s what makes it so great. The personal attention can’t be beat and I made plenty of friends outside of the group.

Chelsea Francis

I would recommend ASA to other students because not only was it a great price for what you get, but it was so much fun and the site director was great.

Morgan Pecknold

ASA is a very thorough program. It is well organized and structured, yet allows for plenty of independent activity and personal responsibility. There were many times where I felt foreign, but I rarely felt like a tourist. I engaged in the culture with the ASA program, I didn’t just take a picture and a souvenir

Aaron Bannasch

Housing

Your home away from home.

Student Residence

The CBS International Business School operates the CBS Student Residence with fully equipped double and single rooms of varied size, close to the popular "Südstadt" neighborhood of Cologne, surrounded by an abundance of shops, cafés, and bars. Each room is furnished with a twin bed (basic duvet, pillow and sheets provided), wardrobe, desk, chair, shelves, and lamp. There is a shared kitchen equipped with refrigerators, a freezer, stove, oven and microwave. You will be provided with a basic cutlery set. Shared bathrooms on each floor are available for residents. Students also have access to a common area with a dining table, couches, a TV and outdoor space. The Student Residence has internet and laundry facilities. The distance to the CBS campus is approximately 2 miles / 20 minutes by public transportation.

Housing FAQs

You may request to live with a friend by emailing ASA at hello@academicstudies.com and we will do our very best to accommodate you. Roommate requests must be mutual, so be sure your friend requests you back. However, Cologne Business School is responsible for all hall allocations, so we cannot guarantee that you can room with your friend. You will meet your hall-mates upon arrival; they could be from the U.S. or other countries.
ASA will notify you of your living arrangements via email approximately 1-2 weeks before the start of your program.
A detailed list of what to bring (and what not to bring) will be included in your ASA pre-departure handbook, which will be emailed to you about a month before your program begins.
Meals are not included, but you'll have kitchen access and grocery stores and cafes within walking distance.
The food is great and will be typical of your host country. Be prepared to try new things! If you have any food allergies or dietary needs, please let ASA know as soon as possible and we'll be happy to advise you on your options.
The accommodations are located approximately a 15-minute walk from campus.

Excursions

Explore the region with organized trips and cultural activities.

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

 
Museum Haus Der Geschichte

Museum Haus Der Geschichte

Drachenfels

Drachenfels

Program Inclusions

What's 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.

Program Calendar

Important dates and deadlines for this program.

Program dates are subject to change. Although date changes are rare, they are typically changes made by the host institution and are, therefore, outside of ASA’s control. If any changes are made to your program dates, ASA is not responsible for fees or losses associated with changing or canceling your plane ticket, additional lodging and other travel costs, etc.

Please do not book a plane ticket until you are accepted to an ASA program and receive written notification of your program’s arrival and departure date

  1. March 2, 2026

    Arrival and Housing Move-in

    Students should arrive at Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN) airport on Mar. 2 to be included in the group airport pickup
  2. March 2-6, 2026

    Orientation

  3. TBA

    Excursions

  4. Mar. 9

    Classes start

  5. Jun. 20

    Classes end

  6. Mid-June

    Exams

  7. Jun. 21

    Housing move-out; students depart

Accessibility & Inclusion

We are committed to making study abroad accessible to all students.

Diversifying study abroad is a priority for ASA. If you have questions or concerns about how any of your identities may impact your study abroad experience, please contact us.

 

  • Culture & Ethnicity
  • Disability Accommodation
  • Food & Diet
  • Financial Aid & Money Matters
  • First Generation
  • Gender Identity & Sexuality
  • Mental Health
  • Non-traditional Students
  • Religion

Ready to Apply?

Take the next step in your study abroad journey. Contact our team to learn more about our programs and start your application today.

Apply Now