A Guide for Admission Process in Germany

Germany is famous as one of the most popular non-Anglophone study destinations across the globe and is nowadays considered a trendy student destination with low tuition fees. Most students prefer studying at German Universities because of the low tuition fees, variety of specializations, and excellent quality of education delivered by hardworking and proficient professors. If you are planning to pursue higher studies in Germany, then there are a few steps that you are required to follow. Some of the major requirements are ensuring that you qualify and opt for the right university. If you want to know more about the admission process in Germany, accommodation facilities and much more, then keep reading!

Choose a University 

Once you have decided to pursue your higher studies in Germany then, the next step is to select the right course and university that is the right fit for you. You can consider the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), a database of more than 2,000 programs available to search from, with more than 1,389 programs.

The opportunities to pursue studies in Germany at an undergraduate level are limited. However, there are various programs delivered in both English and German Language ( English for two to four semesters and then German for the rest of the degree). Enrolling in these programs helps you improve your proficiency in German, and your universities may also offer german Language classes. You may also consider QS rankings for opting for the right university in your field. 

Read more tips on how to choose a university.

Check the Germany Admission Process

Before actually applying, you are first required to qualify for the Germany Admission Process for the university you are planning to get enrolled in. To pursue studies in Germany, you are required to have equivalent higher education qualifications or Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (HZB). If you are an undergraduate student, then you require a high-school diploma, school-leaving certificate, or university entrance exam result and the DAAD(database of information on admission requirements). You may also be required to check for language requirements. As most of the courses are delivered in the German language, you may qualify for two main tests the Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH, meaning “German language examination for university entrance”) and the TestDaF. However, if you want to enrol in English language courses and are not a native speaker, then you are required to qualify for the Language Proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL.

Application Procedure

The next step is to apply, you can either apply directly to the international office of the university you prefer or you may apply through www.uni-assist.de, (a centralized admissions portal for international students). You can also apply for various universities and courses to increase your chances of getting admitted.

In German universities, it is possible to apply for admission two times a year to commence their studies.  It is suggested to submit your application at least six weeks before the deadline so that you have enough time to correct or add if some information is missing. You may expect the official formal acceptance or rejection within one or two months after the deadline is passed. There are some documents you are required to submit as a part of the application process:

• A translated overview of your course modules and grades
• A passport photo
• A certified copy of your high school diploma 
• A copy of your passport (personal information and photo ID page)
• Proof of language proficiency (a test certificate or online equivalent)
• Application fees if applicable

There are some subjects where students from the EU (plus Norway, Iceland, or Liechtenstein) are required to apply through the Foundation of Higher Education Admission however students from outside of the EU must apply as usual.  

Accommodation 

After you have gained a place on your preferred course and you have your student visa then it is advisable to start looking for accommodation as most German Universities do not offer accommodation to the students enrolled. Rent is considered the biggest monthly expense that depends upon the part of the country you are living in. after finding a perfect place to reside you are required to register at the ‘residents’ registration office (Einwohnermeldeamt) or the ‘citizens’ bureau’ (Bürgeramt).

Get Enrolled 

Before you actually start your preferred course and use university facilities such as a library, you must get enrolled. You must re-register before the start of every semester and this may cost you somewhere around  €150 and €250 (US$170 – 290), depending on the university. There are some additional charges ranging from €180 (US$205) for a “Semesterticket”, which comprises public transport expenses for six months. Some of the documents required for the enrollment process are:

• Several passport photos
• Notice of admission
• Completed registration form
• Your passport with visa or residence permit
• Evidence of statutory health insurance in Germany
• Payment receipt for the semester fee
• Proof of higher education entrance qualification, either original certificates or officially certified copies and translations
• Evidence of adequate knowledge of German (or English)

Once you are enrolled, you will receive a registration certificate also known as a provisional student ID, which allows you to apply for a residence permit and to register for classes.  

If you want to get into a good university, you’ll need more than just good grades; you’ll also need a flawless application because the competition is fierce. You may enlist the assistance of Leverage Edu specialists to assist you with the application process so that you can realise your goals. Call us immediately at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute profile consultation.