Everything at a glance

Degree level: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Standard period of study: 7 Semester (210 ECTS )

Type Of Study: Full-time, Dual

Study location: Weiden

Start Of Study: Winter semester (1. Semester) and summer semester (1. Semester)

Course Language: English

Important Notice: New regulations effective starting in the 2026/2027 winter semester:

  • New admission requirements, including an aptitude test and proof of German language proficiency at the A2 level

  • Changes to the curriculum

  • €50 application fee

International Business „Reloaded“ – Study Your Way & Build Your Career in Germany!

Understanding international markets, building up business management expertise, and getting fit for corporate practice in Germany and beyond – that's exactly what the International Business degree program at OTH Amberg-Weiden is all about.

You will study in English in an international environment – but with a clear focus: we train specialists who want to work successfully in Germany or for German companies operating internationally. Language, intercultural competence, and experience abroad are not ends in themselves, but important tools for operating confidently in a globally networked economy.

High five! Your benefits at one glance:

Launch Your Career in Germany

Build the skills that matter: a strong business foundation, integrated German training up to B2 level, and real-world experience through internships and hands-on projects in Germany. Learn more…

Study your way

Flexible hybrid start and customizable curriculum – designed to fit real life, not the other way around. Learn more…

Top Education. Low Tuition Fees.

Get a high-quality German degree without the high price tag.

Truly international experience

Study in English with students from 90+ nationalities. Learn more…

We've Got Your Back

From arrival to career start: buddy program, academic support, and dedicated services like WEBIS Cares. Learn more…

Your career prospects in Germany

This program is built for one clear goal: Helping you to work successfully in Germany or for German companies operating internationally. 

You will gain more than just a business degree. You develop the soft skills, language proficiency, and practical experience needed to start your career in Germany or in German companies worldwide.

A key part of this is our integrated approach:

  • Strong business education based on German academic standards
  • 7 integrated German modules, guiding you to B2 level
  • Hands-on learning through real-world projects with local companies
  • Mandatory internship in Germany (in semester 6)
  • Certificates allow you to specialize - for example, in Finance & Accounting, Marketing & Sales, or Digital Business & Information Systems

Result: You graduate not only with knowledge – but as a job-ready candidate for the German market.

Do you want to go even further? Then you can seamlessly follow on with a Master's programme, for example in International Management & Sustainability. Or you can go your own way - with an international start-up project or as part of a global start-up.

VERY GOOD RATINGS - VERY GOOD PROSPECTS

At OTH Amberg-Weiden, we combine sound theory with practical learning. Small groups, modern facilities, personal support and close cooperation with companies create the best study conditions.
This is also confirmed by the excellent StudyCheck ratings and the success of our graduates. Those who study here are well prepared for the future.

Study-Check Ratings

HIGHLIGHTS of the course

In the International Business program, you benefit from an exceptionally international learning environment – and not just in the lecture hall. You regularly work in teams with students from many different countries, which opens up valuable intercultural perspectives and optimally prepares you for the global world of work.

The location of OTH Amberg-Weiden near the border is a particular advantage: there are numerous internationally active companies around the campus – from medium-sized businesses to large corporations. This is exactly where your studies come in: you apply what you have learned in theory directly to real projects, often in collaboration with regional partners. This gives you early insights into international business processes – practical, concrete, and application-oriented.

Campus life is also international: events are held regularly where you can sample culinary specialties from other countries, experience traditional dances, and actively participate in cultural exchange. All of this makes your studies particularly enriching, not only professionally but also personally.

Certification Programmes

In addition to your regular studies, you can take certification courses at OTH Amberg-Weiden free of charge - for example in the areas of project management or digitalisation. These additional qualifications are a real plus for your CV and help you to position yourself specifically in your professional field. You can find an overview of all certificates here:

Certifications

Study Your Way: The IB Study Program

In the Bachelor's program in International Business, you will learn everything you need to understand international markets, think globally about business management issues and act confidently in an intercultural environment. You will combine economic expertise with language skills and international perspectives.

At the same time, your studies should adapt to your life – not the other way around. Our updated curriculum offers flexibility, especially at the beginning of your studies. Hybrid learning elements in the early semesters allow you to stay on track even if your plans change, for example due to visa processes, travel delays, or other personal circumstances. This means you can follow courses from anywhere in the world for up to one full semester – or start your studies directly on campus and immerse yourself in student life from day one.

If you arrive on time for the winter semester, your study program looks like this. You will begin on campus with a strong foundation in languages and business basics before specializing in up to two areas such as Marketing & Sales, Finance & Accounting, Entrepreneurship & Sustainability, or Leadership & Organizational Development.

If your visa is delayed or you need more time to find accommodation in Weiden, you can start your studies in a hybrid format and transition to campus later without losing time.

If you are a German student interested in the program, please switch the website language to German to view your curriculum.

And if you are unsure how to structure your individual study path, don’t worry – we will support you!

In the sixth semester, you will apply your knowledge directly in a company during an internship semester in Germany. In the seventh semester, you will write your bachelor's thesis, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) – the perfect foundation for positions in internationally operating German companies, NGOs, or the public sector. 

For applicants and students starting from Winter Semester 2026/27:

ORIENTATIONAL STUDIES prepareING

Which degree course is right for me? How much math is involved in the degree courses? And how does university actually work? Good questions - good answers are provided by prepareING. Put OTH Amberg-Weiden to the test, get a taste of campus life and try out your dream degree program!

ORIENTational studies prepareing

A Truly International Experience – With Full Support

Join a truly global community in Germany, with students from over 90 nationalities, a English-taught program, and vibrant international campus life. From day one, you’ll be part of a diverse environment where you learn, collaborate, and grow together – while building strong foundations for your global career. 

And it’s not just the student community that stands out – our support structures do as well:

  • Individual academic guidance --> Support in building your study plan
  • Buddy program to help you settle in
  • Currently developed: WEBIS Cares – support for your well-being and success
  • Close ties to companies and assistance with finding internships
  • Study & Career Service

From your first day to your career start, you are supported academically, professionally, and personally.

Apply now

You want to study International Business at OTH Amberg-Weiden? Then apply for the coming semester!

More detailed information on application and registration.

You can apply here applicant portal

Note: The application test is expected to be available online starting in early May. 

Access and admission requirements

You can apply for a study place during the application period via the application portal of OTH Amberg-Weiden. General information about the application, admission, and enrollment process can be found here.

Please note: New admission requirements
Starting from the winter semester 2025/26, new requirements apply to this study program. As an international, English-taught program with a focus on the German labor market, applicants are expected to meet the following criteria in addition to the general university entrance qualification:

  • English proficiency at least at B2 level (CEFR)
    Proven by TOEFL iBT (minimum 71), IELTS (6.0), TOEIC (minimum 780), or an equivalent qualification (e.g., relevant modules listed in the final certificate).
    No proof required if your university entrance qualification or prior degree was obtained in English.
  • German proficiency at least at A2 level by the start of studies
    The curriculum includes German courses up to level B2.2 to prepare you for the German labor market.
    If you still need to reach A2 level, you can find suitable courses and resources here.
    No proof required if your university entrance qualification or prior degree was obtained in German.
  • Online admission test
    Applicants must complete a free online test assessing their suitability for the program and providing individualized course recommendations for the first semester. You will receive the link to the supervised test during the application process. Further information is available here.

For detailed information, please refer to §3 of the Program and Study & Examination Regulations for the International Business degree program, as well as the regulations governing the aptitude assessment procedure. The documents can be accessed here.

Online Admission Test for the International Business (B.A.) Program

Starting from the winter semester 2026/27, all applicants to the Bachelor’s program International Business are required to complete an Online Admission Test as part of the application process.

Don’t worry: this test is not a barrier, but an opportunity. It helps both you and us determine whether the program is the right fit for you – so you can succeed in your studies from the very beginning.

The International Business program is fully taught in English, strongly internationally oriented, and requires solid analytical skills.

In the past, we have seen that some students underestimated these requirements, which led to avoidable difficulties and, in some cases, students discontinuing their studies. The Online Admission Test has therefore been introduced in your own best interest: it helps ensure that you are well prepared and have realistic chances of successfully completing the program.

The goal is not to filter out applicants, but to support you in making an informed decision and to help you start your studies with confidence.

Based on your results, you may also receive recommendations for “bridging modules” in your first semester.

Once we have received your application, you will receive an invitation to the Online Admission Test within approximately ten days. This invitation includes a personal link to a test platform where you can register with your applicant number and complete the test.

You can take the test at any time within the application period and choose the time that suits you best. The total duration of the test is 60 minutes.

The test is conducted online using a proctoring system. This means that your webcam must be active during the test and you will need to present a valid ID. You will receive detailed instructions together with your invitation.

No, the test is free of charge for you. However, since it generates costs for the university, you can only access the test after submitting your application (It is funded through application fees).

The Online Admission Test assesses key skills that are essential for success in the International Business program. It focuses on general analytical and methodological abilities that you will need throughout your studies.

The test consists of four main areas: quantitative problem-solving (including basic mathematical and economic reasoning), logical and analytical thinking, text analysis (especially understanding academic and business-related texts), and the interpretation of graphical and numerical data.

The questions are presented in a multiple-choice format. No specific prior knowledge or preparation is required, as the test focuses on general abilities rather than learned content.

Sample questions (PDF)

The Online Admission Test is evaluated using a point system. You pass the test if you achieve at least 50% of the total possible points. It does not matter in which sections you score your points – only the overall result counts.

The different sections are weighted differently, meaning that some areas contribute more to the total score than others.

The test is intentionally designed to be fair and manageable. With a solid school education, it can be successfully completed without any additional preparation.

If you do not pass the test or do not complete it within the application period, the aptitude assessment is considered failed. You may retake the Online Admission Test once in the following semester. A second retake is not possible.

You will be informed of your result electronically directly after the test. Only if you pass the Online Admission Test will your program-specific aptitude be confirmed, which is required for admission.

Please note that no admission decision can be made before your full application has been submitted and reviewed.

If you are applying from abroad, we strongly recommend submitting your application as early as possible – ideally 6 to 8 weeks before the application deadline. This ensures that there is sufficient time for all steps in the process.

Take the next step

The Online Admission Test is your first step toward an international degree with excellent career opportunities. So don’t worry – apply now, take the test, and start your journey into the world of international business.

German Language Requirement (A2)

For admission to the program, you are required to provide proof of German language skills at level A2.

If you are not yet able to submit an A2 certificate at the time of your application, this is not a problem. You can submit the required certificate later, up until enrollment (for the winter semester, typically by September 15). This gives you sufficient time to improve your German skills in a targeted way. Many applicants choose to take intensive or fast-track language courses, for example at the Goethe-Institut, in order to reach the required level in time.

The important point is that you submit the certificate by the deadline so that your enrollment can be completed.

Brochure: Your perfect start to study at OTH Amberg-Weiden

FAQs

Here you can find frequently asked questions concerning our study program International Business.

Note: You can look for keywords by using control + F (Windows) or command + F (Mac).

Unfortunately, some links are only available in German. If you enter websites which are not translated to English, we recommend using https://www.deepl.com/en/translator as a translation tool.

For all concerns please use the e-mail address welcome@oth-aw.de.
(If necessary, your questions will be forwarded to the respective person of contact (POC). You can also find the respective person of contact (POC) at the end of each question)

Questions concerning my application

How can I apply for the study program?

(POC: Kathrin Forster)​​​​​​​
The application has to be done online by following the instructions in application system Primuss

Where can I see the status of my application?

(POC: Kathrin Forster)​​​​​​​
​​​​​​​You can check the status of your application in your personal account after you have registered. Please make sure you remember your login dates.

Can I send my documents per post?

(POC: Kathrin Forster)
​​​​​​​The application has to be done online by following the instructions in application system Primuss.

Do I have to apply at uni-assist?

(POC: Kathrin Forster & Uni-assist)​​​​​​​
All international applicants (including citizens of EU-member states) who have not obtained their higher education entrance qualification (i.e. secondary-school leaving certificate) in Germany must have their credentials reviewed and approved by uni-assist. Please note that it can take up to several weeks until you receive your VPD (Vorprüfungsdokumentation = necessary document for your application). After having received or while waiting for your VPD you can apply at OTH Amberg-Weiden and upload your documents in Primuss.

Do I need a special VPD from uni-assist if I already have one from another university?

(POC: Kathrin Forster & Uni-assist)
​​​​​​​Even if you already have a VPD from another university, you still have to apply for a VPD specifically for OTH Amberg-Weiden.

Do I need a visa if I want to study at OTH Amberg-Weiden?

(POC: Kathrin Forster)
If you are from a non-EU-member-state, you need to apply for a visa at the German embassy in your home country. Please note that it can take up to several weeks until you receive your visa. Make sure that you apply early.

Is there a possibility to get financial support for students?

(POC: Studentenwerk Oberfranken)
If you fulfil the requirements, you can apply for BAföG (Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz). You can find information on the website of the Studentenwerk.

Is there a semester ticket for public transport for enrolled students?

(POC: Kathrin Forster) There is a semester ticket for public transport available. How to apply and further information can be found here: https://www.oth-aw.de/en/informieren-und-entdecken/hochschule/studierendenvertretung/semester-ticket/

Is there a tuition fee?

(POC: Kathrin Forster)
​​​​​​​This is a non-NC (numerus clausus) degree program that does not require tuition payment by neither national nor international students. There is no tuition fee, you only have to pay 72€ per semester for administrative matters (student identity card etc.).

Do my language qualifications fit the requirements?

(POC: M.A. Cornelia Oszlonyai, Kathrin Forster)
The examination board will decide whether your language skills as well as other qualifications are adequate, or if you need to submit further certificates. Language certificates and other necessary documents have to be uploaded in the application system Primuss. Proof of English B2 can be submitted until the immatriculation period. Proof of German A2 can be submitted until semester start. Information about requirements for our study program International Business can be found can be found on the pages "Access and admission restrictions" of the programme

One of the following English language tests with minimum scores as indicated will be sufficient:

  • TOEFL IBT - 71
  • IELTS Cambridge - 6
  • TOEIC – 780

Please always use the application system PRIMUSS and do not send your certificates via e-mail in advance.

What are the application requirements?

(POC: Prof. Dr. Gabriele Murry, Theresa Schreiber)
General requirements can be found at the website how-to-apply. Information about requirements for our study program International Business can be found at the can be found on the pages "Access and admission restrictions" of the programme

Questions concerning the study program:

Can I attend the lectures if I cannot be in Germany (in time)?

Thanks to some hybrid modules, you have the opportunity to complete certain courses (for up to one semester) even if you are not physically on campus. Please refer to the section “Study Your Way: The IB Study Program” for more information.

Where can I find general information about the study program?

(POC: Theresa Schreiber)
​​​​​​​General information concerning your studies at OTH Amberg-Weiden and International Business can be found in the Moodle course „International Business – General Information”. After the login with your login dates which you receive after enrolment you can get access to this course. If you have general questions in advance you can contact our Faculty Assistant Theresa Schreiber or our Study und Career Service

Where can I find the courses which I have to take in my first semester?

(POC: Theresa Schreiber)
You can find information about the study program and the relevant courses on our homepage, in the module handbook or in the timetable.  

How is the program structured?

(POC: Theresa Schreiber)
You can find information about the study program and the relevant courses on our homepage, in the module handbook or in the timetable.  

Where can I find course material to the lectures?

(POC: Theresa Schreiber)
​​​​​​​We use the learning management system MoodleAfter the login with your login dates which you will receive after enrolment you can get access to your courses and the respective lecture material.

Can I also receive credit points for other languages offered by the Language Center?

(POC: Theresa Schreiber)

You are allowed to take additional language courses like Chinese, French, etc. These language courses can be accredited as Elective Modules (according to the specific regulations which can be found in the course catalogue). 

Please note that educational residents of the respective language are not allowed to take these courses, e.g. if you are French or if you have graduated in a French school or already have previous knowledge of French on a higher level, you are not allowed to participate in a French course for starters.

For more information on language courses, please visit https://www.oth-aw.de/en/international/international-profile/language-centre/questions-regarding-language-courses/

 

Questions concerning life in Germany:

Do I need a German insurance if I start my studies at OTH Amberg-Weiden?

(POC: Andreas Schaller)
Yes. Please contact our Health Insurance Officer, Mr. Schaller, from Techniker Krankenkasse (cc). He will assist you in taking out health insurance. You may as well apply online. If you want to take out a full package with TK's partner Expatrio, follow this link https://www.expatrio.com/

Am I allowed to work as a foreigner in Germany while here on a student visa?

(POC: Felicitas Langowski & Andreas Schaller)
You are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week.

Where can I find apartments/accommodation in Weiden?

(POC: welcome@oth-aw.de & Studentenwerk Oberfranken)
You can find accommodations, which are only 5 minutes walking distance from the university. Please note that in Germany, accommodation in student halls of residence is not automatically granted upon admission to a degree program. Please make your own arrangements for accommodation and, above all, make sure you make them in good time.