What do I need to apply for the programme?

  1. (required) Letter of motivation (1-2 pages) (In English)
  2. (required) Curriculum vitae (CV)
  3. (required) Passport or identity card or other proof of citizenship in conjunction with an official photo ID (copy front & back)
  4. (required only for our Master programme) Certificate of your completed Bachelor Degree
  5. (required) Proof of higher education entrance qualification (e.g., high school diploma). All documents need to be in English or officially translated into English – German is also acceptable).
  6. (required) Proof of English proficiency. All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency (at least level B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, International Baccalaureate. A minimum German language proficiency level is not required for participation in the International English-language Programmes at the SFU Berlin. Nevertheless, please keep in mind that while it is relatively easy to get by with English in Berlin, basic knowledge of German is very useful.
  7. (required) Photograph (.jpg, good resolution)
  8. (optional) University transcripts (these need to be in English or officially translated into English – German is also acceptable).
  9. (optional) Additional supporting documents

I need help with financing my studies.

We offer an overview of financing options – especially scholarships and financial aid. Download it here. The SFU offers various payment plans and discount rates that can be arranged with the SFU accounting department.

What kind of language certificates do I need?

All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency (at least level B2 according to the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages), e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, International Baccalaureate. A minimum German language proficiency level is not required for participation in the International English-language Programmes at the SFU Berlin. Nevertheless, please keep in mind that while it is relatively easy to get by with English in Berlin, basic knowledge of German is very useful.

I already started studying at another University, but want to finish my studies at the SFU. Is that possible?

Yes, that is possible. Please send your university course transcript and the module handbook describing the courses (in English or German) to psychologie.berlin@sfu-berlin.de . If the courses match both in terms of ECTS credits and content, you can possibly receive credit for the coursework you have already completed.

How can I apply for a visa?

If you are offered admission to the programme, you will be sent a contract and an invoice for the signing deposit (which is credited to your tuition). Once we have received the signed contract and signing deposit, you will receive official proof of acceptance into the program that you can use for official purposes, such as applying for a German visa.
General Information about German visa can be found her:
https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/en/visa-service/-/215870

How many students are accepted into the programmes each year?

All practical, hands-on courses are conducted in small groups. The individual supervision of students by professors and assistants, which is entirely geared towards personal support, is guaranteed by our open-door policy. You will start your studies in a group of 15 to 30 students.

When does the semester start? When do my courses start?

International English-language Bachelor Programme in Psychology
International English-language Master Programme in Clinical Psychology and Public Mental Health
Winter semester: 01.10. – 31.03.
Courses: Mid-October to Mid-February
and
Summer semester: 01.04. – 30.09.
Courses: Beginning of April to the Beginning of July

Master Programme in International Business and Economic Psychology
Wintersemester: 01.10. – 31.03.
Courses: Mid October – Mid February

Are there guided orientation tours for new students?

Yes. At the beginning of each semester, we offer introduction, orientation days for new students, usually over two days. We send out invitations to new students roughly one week before the orientation days.

How do I know which classes to take?

Our programmes follow a given curriculum. You can find the curricula for the various programmes on our website. You can also find an overview of the study programmes here: https://psychologie.sfu-berlin.de/en/academics/overview-study-programmes/.
If you have any question concerning a particular curriculum, please contact us by email: psychologie.berlin@sfu-berlin.de and we’ll forward your questions to the head of that programme.

How do I register for classes?

You register via our study management system, AcademyFIVE. You will receive a personal account for AcademyFIVE where you will find all information about your course of study at the SFU Berlin. We send out emails explaining how this works in greater detail at the beginning of your studies.

Where can I find academic advising?

Please send inquiries to psychologie.berlin@sfu-berlin.de and we’ll forward your questions to the responsible head of department. They will get back to you with an answer or they will arrange a meeting, if desired.

What are the deadlines for assignments or tests?

The deadlines vary from course to course. Please ask your professor. You need to sign up for exams online at least three days before the exam takes place (or earlier).

What professional fields are open to me with a Master’s in Clinical Psychology and Public Mental Health?

With a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology and Public Mental Health, you can work as a clinical psychologist in Germany.  As a clinical psychologist, you can offer counselling, psychosocial support, and programme development and evaluation in a wide range of clinical settings including clinics, rehabilitation facilities, health centres, crisis intervention services, hospice, and addiction support centres. You will also be qualified to work in social service settings such as schools, domestic violence shelters, prisons and the criminal justice system, grassroots community organizations, assisted living facilities, and youth services.
The English-language Master’s degree also prepares you for careers with international organizations like the UN, WHO, or NGOs working in crisis settings. It also serves prepares you to work as a researcher or to develop an academic career in areas like conflict studies, public mental health, or critical psychology.

Does the Master’s in Clinical Psychology and Public Mental Health provide a pathway to becoming a licensed psychotherapist in Germany?

Please note that this Master’s programme does not qualify you to become a licensed psychotherapist in Germany. If your goal is to become a licensed psychotherapist in Germany, we recommend pursuing a Master’s programme in Psychotherapy Sciences.  If your goal is to practice psychotherapy outside of Germany, we recommend you carefully review your local licensing requirements to determine whether this programme meets the requirements for further training and licensing. 

What career opportunities are available with a Master’s in International Business and Economic Psychology (IMBEP)?

With a Master’s in International Business and Economic Psychology, you can pursue various roles that combine psychology and business. This could include positions in HR, organizational development, market research, and consulting. You’ll be well-prepared to work in multinational companies, startups, or consulting firms, especially in areas like consumer behavior, employee well-being, and organizational transformation. The program also opens doors to international organizations, research roles, or careers in the rapidly growing fields of digital economy and behavioral economics.