DACH Forum
What is the DACH Forum?
The CEMS DACH Forum is an annual regional event within the German-speaking cluster of CEMS and is rotating between our CEMS schools University of St. Gallen, WU Vienna and University of Cologne. In 2026, the event will be held at University of Cologne.
When and where will it take place?
The CEMS DACH Forum 2026 will take place 26. – 29. May in Cologne.
What will the academic program look like?
Next to lectures providing you with a fundamental base around the topic „Innovation & Europe’s Global Competitiveness“, the academic program encompasses challenging cases provided by our corporate partners.
How does the DACH Forum differ from other CEMS regional events?
In contrast to all other CEMS regional events, the DACH Forum is built around a 3 ECTS academic course (not Skill Seminar ECTS), which can be accredited as an elective/course credits and counts towards your CEMS degree.
How can the 3 ECTS be accredited?
You will be notified via email as soon as the grades are uploaded on cems.org. Please note that in order to get the 3 ECTS, you need to be enrolled for the semester, attend the whole course in person and prepare your tasks during and after the course.
What else can I expect from the event?
Besides the academic program, you will have the opportunity to network with our Corporate Partners after their workshops and during other events. Moreover, you will be able to extend your network during the Speed Recruiting, or you might be selected for interviews/chats with our Corporate Partners to jumpstart your career. Additionally, the program includes social events such as a gala and after-party to get to know your fellow students and have fun.
Application
Who is eligible to apply?
All CEMS students with an interest in the DACH region are applicable to apply. Priority is given to those studying at the three CEMS universities in the DACH region. Based on academic and extracurricular qualifications, selective students will be invited to the DACH Forum in Cologne.
When and where can I apply?
The application period runs from 10.-23. March 2026. Please submit your application using this form.
What do I need to include in my application?
Please attach your CV (including your Bachelor’s and Master’s grades, international experience, work experience and extracurricular activities). Furthermore, you will be asked to write a short statement briefly explaining your motivation to join the CEMS DACH Forum 2026.
What are the selection criteria?
Selection will be based on your CV, including your Bachelor’s and Master’s grades, international experience, work experience, extracurricular activities, and a brief explanation of your motivation. Furthermore, students from the DACH region will also be given an advantage, and overall, attention will be paid to ensuring a balanced mix of students.
When will I know if I was selected?
You will receive an email about your application outcome to the address provided by you in the application form at the end of March.
What is the cancellation & refund policy?
Cancellations will not receive a refund.
General information
What will it cost me?
The participation fee for the DACH Forum is 100 Euros. Once you have been selected, you will receive a payment link and participation is only confirmed once we receive your payment.
In what language will the DACH Forum be held?
The DACH Forum will be held entirely in English.
Is attendance compulsory?
Yes, full attendance is mandatory for all participants for all activities. To participants receiving credits attendance counts as a third of total grade. A pass grade will be awarded to students who have taken part in at least two of the lecture case studies and in all of the company sessions.
What time does the DACH Forum start and finish?
The DACH Forum starts on Tuesday, 26. May at 12pm sharp (ARRIVAL TIME 11:30) with an official opening ceremony. Please arrive a bit earlier for check-in, and be on time for the opening ceremony! The Forum ends on Friday, 29. May, with the Gala ending at 11pm, or when you join our official After Party, as recommended, then later during the night.
What is the dress code?
We ask you to dress appropriately. „Business casual“ for company events, Cocktail attire is required for the Gala Night.
If I have any questions, how can I get in touch?
Get in contact with the organising team via orga@cemsdachforum.com.