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A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying to German Universities

Germany has become a popular study destination for foreign students. With its excellent education system, affordable fees, and huge career opportunities, Germany attracts thousands of students every year. However, the application process to German universities can seem daunting, especially for first-timers.

In this step-by-step blog, we will guide you through how to apply for German universities, from selecting the right course to submitting your application.

Why Study in Germany?

High-Quality Education
Germany has the world’s leading universities, including the Technical University of Munich (TUM), Heidelberg University, and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU). These universities boast a strong reputation for academics, research facilities, and industry collaborations.

Affordable or Tuition-Free Education
The majority of public universities in Germany do not have tuition fees for undergraduate studies. The students only pay semester contributions, which are typically between €150 and €300. Private universities come with tuition fees, but these are generally less than other study locations.

Good Career Opportunities
Germany has a strong economy and is home to leading multinational companies. Many foreign students find job placements in Germany after graduation, and it is thus a highly sought-after destination to study.

English-Taught Programs
Numerous German universities have programs taught in English, especially at the master’s level. This enables international students to pursue studies in Germany without needing fluency in German.

Rich Cultural and Social Experience
Germany offers a vibrant student life with a mix of historical landmarks, cultural events, and modern cities. International students can also benefit from Germany’s central location in Europe, making travel easy.

Step 1: Choose Your University and Program

The first step in applying to German universities is deciding where and what to study. Germany has over 400 higher education institutions offering thousands of degree programs.

How to Choose the Right Program
Research programs and universities through websites such as the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) and Uni-Assist.
Look at university rankings, location, and fees.
Verify if the program is taught in German or English and what language proficiency is required.
Look at the curriculum, faculty specialization, and career opportunities for your desired program.

Step 2: Verify Admission Requirements

Every German program and university has particular admission standards. Familiarizing oneself with these standards beforehand is important to apply.

General Admission Standards

For a bachelor’s, an equivalent high school diploma to that of the Abitur in Germany is required by applicants. Where the qualification isn’t at par with German qualification, students have to undertake a Studienkolleg (preparatory course).

For a master’s degree, the applicants must hold an equivalent recognized bachelor’s degree related to the proposed master’s field.

Language Competency

For German teaching programs, proof of TestDaF or DSH certificate should be submitted by the students.

For English-taught programs, verification of TOEFL or IELTS certificates is required.
Entrance Tests

Certain courses have additional entrance tests, such as the GRE or GMAT for business or technical courses.

APS Certificate

Students from select countries, e.g., India, China, and Vietnam, might require an APS certificate to get their academic documents verified.

Step 3: Gather Required Documents

Students must prepare all the required documents before application. The requirements are not quite the same for every university but most often, the following documents are required:

  • Certified copies of certificates and academic records
  • Language proficiency certificates (TestDaF, DSH, IELTS, or TOEFL)
  • A statement of purpose (SOP) or motivation letter explaining why the applicant wants to study the program
  • Letters of recommendation (LORs) from a teacher or professor (if required)
  • Current CV/resume
  • Copy of a valid passport
  • Proof of funds, i.e., blocked account statement or confirmation of scholarship
  • Portfolio, for application to art, design, or architecture programs
  • Medical certificates, if so required by the university

It is recommended to have both hard copies and soft copies because there are universities that will accept hard copies only.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

There are several application processes for German universities, varying with the institution. Certain universities take applications directly, while others need students to apply via Uni-Assist.

Applying Through Uni-Assist
Uni-Assist is a standard application platform utilized by most German universities to handle international applications. The process entails:


  • Registering on www.uni-assist.de
  • Completing the required information and uploading required documents
  • Payment of an application fee (approximately €75 for the first university and €30 for subsequent applications)
  • Application before the deadline
  • Direct University Application

A few universities do not employ Uni-Assist and ask students to apply directly on their university website. One needs to confirm the individual application process for each university.

Application Deadlines
Winter Semester (October Start): July 15 is generally the deadline.
Summer Semester (April Start): January 15 is usually the deadline.
These may vary by university and program, so the applicants must check specific dates in advance.

 

German university guide

 

In Short

German university applications can seem overwhelming, but it becomes simple when approached in a step-by-step manner. An understanding of the requirements of German universities, advance preparation of documents, and the timely filing of applications are vital measures for ensuring that the application goes through without hitches.

Key Points to Keep in Mind:
Research programs and universities extensively.
Verify that academic credentials meet the entry level.
Collect all documents prior to initiating the application process.
Submit applications via Uni-Assist or directly to the university.
Be aware of deadlines to prevent missing crucial submission deadlines.
By thoroughly preparing, students can enhance the likelihood of being admitted to a leading German university and embarking on an engaging academic experience in Germany.

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    What are German university admission requirements?

    Admission requirements differ according to program but are usually recognized academic credentials, language proficiency (TestDaF/DSH for German programs or IELTS/TOEFL for English programs), and supporting documents such as transcripts, SOP, and financial evidence.

    How do I submit applications to German universities?

    You may directly apply through the university website or through Uni-Assist, sending required documents, paying fees, and completing deadlines for winter or summer term.

    Do I require a visa for studying in Germany?

    Non-EU students typically need a student visa, which mandates an admission letter, documentation of financial resources, and health insurance.

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