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Freie Universität Berlin
Master English

Semitic Studies

Freie Universität Berlin Berlin · Berlin

About the Program

Semitic Studies
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Semitic Studies

Application Requirements

To be eligible for the MA in Semitic Studies at Freie Universität Berlin, applicants must meet the following requirements: 1. Educational Background A professionally qualifying Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from a recognised university. The degree must include at least 60 credit points (CP) in Semitic Studies or related fields. This includes courses on: Semitic languages and cultures, the history and present of the Christian Orient and other non-Muslim minorities. 2. Language Requirements (see below) 3. Evaluation of Foreign Degrees The Examination Board of the Department of History and Cultural Studies at Freie Universität Berlin evaluates whether applicants’ degrees meet the requirements. Upon request, the equivalence of foreign degrees can be assessed before the application process.

Language Requirements

English Language Requirement Applicants must provide proof of English proficiency at the C1 level (CEFR) if they did not complete their previous degree in English. As part of the 60 CP in Semitic Studies, applicants must demonstrate proficiency in either modern or classical Semitic languages: Option A – Modern Semitic languages: At least 40 CP in a modern Semitic language is required, e.g. Arabic (MSA), Hebrew, Amharic, or Neo-Aramaic. Proficiency must be equivalent to B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) or higher. Option B – Classical Semitic languages: At least 40 CP in a classical Semitic language is required, e.g. Syriac-Aramaic, Biblical Hebrew, Classical Arabic, or Geʿez, Phoenician. No German language skills are required for admission.

How do I apply to Semitic Studies at Freie Universität Berlin?

Most international applicants apply via uni-assist (document verification + APS for some countries). Prepare your secondary/Bachelor diploma, transcripts, language certificate (DSH/TestDaF or IELTS/TOEFL), motivation letter and CV. Non-EU students also need a Sperrkonto (~11,904 EUR/year) for the visa.

  1. Check requirements — Verify your degree is recognised + meet language/grade thresholds.
  2. Get language certificate — TestDaF / DSH for German programmes, IELTS / TOEFL for English.
  3. Submit via uni-assist (non-EU) — Document review + APS if your country requires it (China, India, Pakistan, Vietnam, etc.).
  4. Apply directly or via uni portal — Some universities accept direct applications — check the official programme page.
  5. Open Sperrkonto + apply for visa — After admission, deposit 11,904 EUR, get health insurance, book embassy appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Semitic Studies at Freie Universität Berlin

Is Semitic Studies at Freie Universität Berlin taught in German or English? ▼

This Master programme is taught in English. Make sure to check the language requirements (e.g. TestDaF, DSH, IELTS or TOEFL) before applying.

How much does the Semitic Studies programme cost? ▼

No tuition fee (only semester contribution). International students should also budget around 800–1000 EUR/month for living costs in Germany.

What are the admission requirements for Semitic Studies at Freie Universität Berlin? ▼

Typical requirements include: a recognised secondary/undergraduate degree, proof of language proficiency (English), and (for non-EU applicants) a uni-assist application plus financial proof (Sperrkonto ~11.904 EUR/year).

When is the application deadline? ▼

Application deadlines vary: winter semester usually closes on 15 July, summer semester on 15 January. Always confirm the exact deadline on the official university website.

Can I work in Germany while studying Semitic Studies? ▼

Yes. International students may work up to 140 full days / 280 half days per year without additional permission. After graduation you can apply for an 18-month job-seeker permit.

How do I apply to Freie Universität Berlin — directly or via uni-assist? ▼

Most German universities accept international applications through uni-assist for document verification. Some unis accept direct applications — check the programme page on the official site.

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