BTU Cottbus-Senftenberg Secures Additional Three Years of Funding in the BIDS Program to Support International Freshmen – Orientation and Study

Since 2008, BTU has participated in the BIDS program, fostering extensive relationships with PASCH schools (German schools abroad and other schools with a focus on German). Through this program, BTU supports student participation in trial study programs, organizes visits to its three campuses, and awards motivational scholarships to PASCH graduates starting their studies.

The program also emphasizes close collaboration with key partners in target countries, including German teachers posted abroad, staff from Central Agency for Schools Abroad (ZfA), the Goethe Institute, DAAD offices, and local cooperation networks.

In the new funding period, a special focus will be on involving BTU’s education students in exchanges with PASCH schools and increasing the role of outgoing exchange students as university ambassadors. Current target countries include Bulgaria, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Turkey.

By reaching out to graduating students, especially from STEM-focused high schools where strong German language skills are fostered, BTU aims to enhance the fit between international applicants and the university. Over the years, this program has successfully attracted well-prepared international students for BTU’s German-language bachelor’s programs. Numerous in-person, online, and international information sessions, alongside intensive support and preparatory measures, ensure that PASCH graduates transition smoothly into the German higher education system at BTU.