Last Updated: February 3, 2026
Effective Date: February 3, 2026
This Cookie Policy explains how OpenCourseWorld ("we," "us," or "our") uses cookies and similar tracking technologies when you visit our website at https://opencourseworld.com. This policy should be read in conjunction with our Privacy Policy.
By using our website, you consent to the use of cookies as described in this policy. You can manage your cookie preferences at any time using our cookie consent tool or through your browser settings.
Cookies are small text files that are placed on your computer or mobile device when you visit a website. They are widely used to make websites work more efficiently and provide information to website owners.
Cookies can be "session cookies" (which are deleted when you close your browser) or "persistent cookies" (which remain on your device for a specified period or until you delete them).
Cookies can also be "first-party cookies" (set by the website you are visiting) or "third-party cookies" (set by a different website, such as an analytics provider or advertising network).
We use cookies for several reasons:
We categorize cookies into four main types based on their purpose and function:
Legal Basis: These cookies are necessary for the performance of our contract with you or to comply with legal obligations. Under GDPR, explicit consent is not required for strictly necessary cookies.
Legal Basis: These cookies require your consent under GDPR. You can manage these preferences through our cookie consent banner.
Analytics data is typically aggregated and anonymized. However, because these cookies can potentially identify individuals, we obtain your consent before using them.
Legal Basis: Your explicit consent is required under GDPR.
We only use marketing cookies with your explicit consent. You can opt out at any time through our cookie settings or your browser preferences.
Legal Basis: Your explicit consent is required under GDPR and ePrivacy regulations.
Below is a detailed list of cookies we use on our website:
| Cookie Name | Type | Purpose | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| ocw-cookie-consent | Necessary | Stores your cookie consent preferences | 1 year |
| ocw-session | Necessary | Maintains your session while browsing | Session |
| ocw-dark-mode | Functional | Remembers your dark mode preference | 1 year |
| ocw-language | Functional | Stores your language preference | 6 months |
| ocw-user-progress | Functional | Tracks course progress (if logged in) | 1 year |
| _ga | Analytics | Google Analytics - distinguishes users | 2 years |
| _gid | Analytics | Google Analytics - distinguishes users | 24 hours |
| _gat | Analytics | Google Analytics - throttles request rate | 1 minute |
| _fbp | Marketing | Facebook Pixel - tracks conversions | 3 months |
| IDE | Marketing | Google DoubleClick - ad serving | 1 year |
Each third party has its own privacy policy governing the use of cookies. We recommend reviewing their policies to understand their data practices.
You have the right to decide whether to accept or reject cookies. You can exercise your cookie preferences in several ways:
When you first visit our website, you will see a cookie consent banner allowing you to accept or reject different categories of cookies. You can change your preferences at any time by clicking the "Update Cookie Settings" button at the bottom of any page or in our footer.
For mobile devices, please consult your device's help menu or settings for cookie management options.
You can opt out of certain third-party cookies using industry opt-out tools:
Some browsers include a "Do Not Track" (DNT) feature that signals to websites that you do not want your online activity tracked. Currently, there is no universal standard for how DNT signals should be interpreted.
Our website does not currently respond to DNT signals, but we respect your right to privacy and provide robust cookie management tools as described in this policy.
Strictly necessary cookies cannot be disabled as they are essential for website functionality.
We encourage you to review this Cookie Policy periodically to stay informed about our use of cookies.
If you have questions about our use of cookies or this Cookie Policy, please contact us:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +49 0208 80 97 16
Address: OpenCourseWorld, Friedrichstraße 41, 01067 Dresden, Germany
For data protection inquiries, you can also contact our Data Protection Officer at [email protected].
To exercise these rights, please contact us using the information provided above.
You can change your cookie preferences at any time by clicking the button below:
Contact us at [email protected] or call +49 0208 80 97 16