Distance learning course; application for approval or significant changes

According to the German Distance Learning Protection Act (Fernunterrichtsschutzgesetz - Fern-USG), distance learning courses require approval by the State Central Office for Distance Learning. A contract for a non-approved course is null and void.

The State Central Agency for Distance Learning (ZFU) based in Cologne

• decides on the approval or refusal of approval of all distance learning courses requiring approval. Without approval, distance learning courses within the meaning of the law may not be marketed or advertised in Germany,
• reviews the continued existence of the approval requirements for distance learning courses, generally every three years,
• decides on the approval of significant changes to approved distance learning courses,
• registers distance learning courses that do not require approval (so-called "hobby courses", which are used exclusively for leisure activities). The ZFU must be notified of the distribution of these courses. It is up to the ZFU to decide whether the course is actually a "hobby course". The distance learning contracts for such distance learning courses are also subject to the Distance Learning Act (Fern-USG) and are examined by the ZFU.

• Detailed description of the distance learning course
• Draft distance learning contract as it is to be concluded with the participant.

  (For information for organizers of distance learning courses on the drafting of a distance learning contract and the information material used for advertising purposes, see "Further links").

• Draft of intended promotional literature
• All learning materials

• The course must be suitable for achieving the objective set by the organizer;
• The content or objective of the course must not violate public safety and order,
• the organizer must provide the participant with comprehensive information about the course offered and
• all legal requirements for the drafting of a contract for a distance learning course must be met.

You can find a comprehensive guide under "Further links".

The administrative court proceedings of the state of North Rhine-Westphalia are admissible against decisions of the State Central Office for Distance Learning. The competent courts and the deadlines to be observed are indicated in the information on legal remedies in the notices.

A distance learning course requiring approval may only be sold or offered after approval has been granted. The distribution of a distance learning course without the required approval constitutes an administrative offense and can be punished with a fine.

Fees are payable for the administrative activities of the Central Office in accordance with the Fees Act for the State of North Rhine-Westphalia.

As a rule, the admission fee amounts to 150% of the sales price of the approved distance learning course according to the currently valid scale of fees. If the final approval of the distance learning course is preceded by provisional approval, this fee increases to 200% of the sales price.

The minimum fee for admission is EUR 1050.00.

Reduced admission fees are payable for distance learning courses with a low sales price (less than EUR 250).