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GRE Accepting Universities in Germany: Germany is one of the most popular choices for both Indian as well as international students who are planning to study abroad. Some of the main reasons behind it are the low tuition fees, affordable cost of living in Germany and the quality education that is offered to the students. If you also wish to become a part of the universities in Germany, you must meet the eligibility criteria set by them. One of those criteria is a GRE score. In this blog, we will explore why you must study in Germany, the top GRE accepting universities in Germany, the eligibility criteria that the student will need to meet to enter Germany and much more. Let’s dive in.
The Ultimate Guide to the GRE Exam
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Why Choose Germany for Higher Education?
As we mentioned above, Germany is considered one of the top study-abroad destinations by international students. But why study in Germany? What are the top reasons that make students leave their country and move abroad to study? Let us look at some of the following reasons:
- Top-notch Academics: World-class universities, research focus, and practical training.
- Affordable Education: Low or no tuition fees at public universities.
- Diverse Culture: Welcoming environment for international students.
- Career Prospects: Strong economy and post-study work opportunities.
- High Quality of Life: Safe, secure, and excellent infrastructure.
- English Programs: Many courses are taught in English, especially at the graduate level.
Also Read: Top 10 Reasons to Study in Germany
Understanding the GRE and its Role in German Admissions
The Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) is a standardised test widely used for admissions to graduate programs, including Master’s and PhD programs, across the globe. While not universally required by all German universities, it can play a significant role in your application. Here’s a breakdown of its importance:
What is the GRE?
- A standardised test assessing verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing skills.
- It measures skills developed over time and not specific subject knowledge.
- Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).
Why is the GRE important for German university admissions?
- Demonstrates Academic Potential: A good GRE score can showcase your readiness for rigorous graduate-level studies, especially if your undergraduate grades don’t fully reflect your abilities.
- Strengthens Your Application: Even if not mandatory, submitting GRE scores can make your application stand out, especially for competitive programs or universities.
- Increases Scholarship Opportunities: Many scholarships, both university-specific and external, consider GRE scores as part of the eligibility criteria.
- Provides a Standardized Measure: For universities dealing with diverse international applicants, GRE scores offer a common benchmark to evaluate candidates from different educational backgrounds.
Which programs in Germany typically require or prefer GRE scores?
- Master’s and PhD programs: Especially in STEM courses in Germany (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and Business.
- Competitive programs: Where the number of applicants exceeds available spots.
- Research-oriented programs: Where strong analytical and quantitative skills are essential.
- Universities with a strong international focus: They may use the GRE to assess applicants from various countries.
How to find out if a German university requires or accepts GRE scores:
- Check the university website: Look for program-specific admission requirements or FAQs.
- Contact the admissions office: Reach out to the university’s international admissions office for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Also Read: Education System in Germany
Top GRE Accepting Universities in Germany
Germany is home to many prestigious universities that attract roughly 3,20,000 international students from different corners of the world. Most of the international students study in Germany are from India and China. Selecting the best universities from the bunch is burdensome. To ease this we have prepared a list of the top 10 GRE-accepting universities in Germany:
| GRE Accepting Universities | GRE Accepting Score in Germany | QS World Ranking 2025 |
| Technical University of Munich | 157 in Quantitative Reasoning (QR) and 3.0 in Analytical Writing (AW) for some programs, and 164 and 4.0 for others. | #28 |
| Ludwig Maximilians University Munich | Does not require a GRE score for most of the programs | #59 |
| Heidelberg University | Aim for a score above 315 | #84 |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology | Does not mandate a GRE score for all programs | #102 |
| RWTH Aachen University | Does not mandate a GRE score for all programs | #99 |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | 315+ | #=126 |
| University of Freiburg | No specific requirement for a GRE score for admission to any program | #212 |
| TU Dortmund University | Doesn’t have a specific minimum score requirement | #801-850 |
| Munich Business School | Doesn’t have a specific minimum score requirement | NA |
| Goethe University Frankfurt | Doesn’t have a specific minimum score requirement | #=309 |
Also Read: Top Universities Accepting GRE Scores
Let us look at some more information about the GRE accepting universities in Germany.
Technical University Of Munich
The Technical University Of Munich is a public university established in 1868. The university has 3 campuses and over 400 buildings offering courses in business, science, humanities, etc. The Technical University Of Munich is home to more than 13,000 international students. Popular courses include engineering, natural sciences, astronomy, computer science, etc. The required GRE score is 157.
Ludwig Maximilians University Munchen
Ludwig Maximilians University Munchen is a public university established in 1472 and one of the oldest universities in Germany. Some of the popular courses include law, cultural science, economics, social science, etc. The institution is well known for its quality education and for graduating talented students every year. The required GRE score is above the 80th percentile.
Heidelberg University
Heidelberg University is a public university located in Heidelberg. At present, there are 3,084 international students enrolled in different courses at Heidelberg University. The university was established in 1386 offering courses in majorly 12 streams including humanities, life sciences, medicine, and natural sciences. Heidelberg University is one of the finest institutions in Germany. The GRE score is not mandatory but the students with a GRE score are preferred over the rest.
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology is a public university established in 1825. Karlsruhe Institute of Technology is the largest research institute in Germany and offers courses related to STEM. It also offers free resources and guidance to its students and faculty planning to start their entrepreneurship journey at its Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship. For the GRE score applicants have to contact the officials of the university.
RWTH Aachen University
RWTH Aachen is a public research university established in 1870. The university is home to more than 11,000 international students from different parts of the world. Some of the popular courses offered by the university are mechanical engineering, geography, geosciences, etc. The required GRE is 145 verbal reasoning and 165 quantitative reasoning.
Also Read: Requirements To Study In Germany For Indian Students
Other Prominent GRE Accepting Universities in Germany
Germany has become a popular choice among students to pursue higher education and is a home of excellent universities. Some other prominent universities GRE accepting universities in Germany are listed below:
| GISMA Business School | European Business School Germany |
| Bonn-Cologne Grad School of Physics and Astronomy | Jacobs University Bremen |
| U Mannheim | DIW Berlin |
| Max Planck Institute | University of Freiburg |
Also Read: MIM in Germany
How to Find Programs that Accept GRE Scores?
Finding programs in Germany that accept GRE scores requires a bit of research, but here’s a breakdown of how to effectively search:
1. Start with General Searches:
- Use targeted keywords: Search online using terms like “GRE accepting universities in Germany,” “Masters programs in Germany that accept GRE,” or “PhD programs in Germany requiring GRE.”
- Explore university ranking sites: Websites like QS World University Rankings, Times Higher Education, and ARWU often list universities and their program offerings. Filter or search for German universities and then check their admission requirements.
- Refer to study abroad platforms: Websites like Shiksha, Leverage Edu, and Kanan often have articles or lists of German universities that accept GRE scores. However, always verify information on the university’s official website.
2. Dive into University Websites:
- Visit the “International Admissions” or “Graduate Studies” section: Most universities have dedicated sections for international students or graduate programs. Look for admission requirements, FAQs, or program-specific information.
- Search within the website: Use the website’s search function with keywords like “GRE,” “graduate admissions,” or the specific program you’re interested in.
- Check program pages directly: Navigate to the specific program page you’re interested in. Admission requirements are usually listed there.
3. Utilize Online Databases and Search Tools:
- DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): The DAAD website is a comprehensive resource for information on studying in Germany. They might have a database of programs or links to university websites.
- MyGermanUniversity: This website allows you to search for programs in Germany based on various criteria, including admission requirements.
4. Contact Universities Directly:
- Email the admissions office: If you can’t find clear information online, don’t hesitate to email the international admissions office or the specific program coordinator. They are the most reliable source for up-to-date information.
- Call the university: For urgent queries, consider calling the admissions office.
5. Consider Program-Specific Requirements:
- Master’s vs. PhD: GRE requirements are more common for PhD programs than for Master’s programs.
- Field of study: STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and Business programs are more likely to require or prefer GRE scores.
- Program competitiveness: Highly competitive programs with limited spots may use GRE scores as an additional selection criterion.
Visa Requirements and Application Process
| Category | Details |
| Who Needs a Visa? | EU/EEA: Generally no visa is needed (residence registration required). Specific Countries (e.g., Australia, Canada, Japan, USA): Visa-free entry (residence permit within 90 days). All Other Nationalities: A student visa is required before entry. |
| Visa Types | Student Visa: Accepted into a German university program. Prospective Student Visa: Applying for a program or attending a language course in Germany. |
| General Requirements | Valid Passport (6+ months beyond stay). Completed Application Form. Passport Photos (biometric). Proof of Admission (university acceptance). Proof of Financial Resources (Blocked Account ~EUR 11,904/year, scholarships, parental income). Health Insurance (min. EUR 30,000 coverage). Academic Records (transcripts, degrees). Language Proficiency (German or English). Motivation Letter. Visa Fee (~EUR 75). |
| Application Process | Contact the German Embassy/Consulate (appointment & requirements). Gather Documents. Submit Application Visa InterviewProcessing Time (can take weeks). |
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FAQs
The majority of Germany’s top universities evaluate student applications based on their GRE scores, even though the majority of German universities do not mandate GRE scores. Therefore, yes, the GRE is necessary for MS admission in Germany.
No, GRE scores are not necessary or needed for admission to an MBA programme in Germany. However, German institutions do use GRE results to evaluate applicants’ aptitude and analytical capabilities. So, submitting your GRE results for an MBA programme will undoubtedly help you develop your profile and, in turn, credibility.
Not always. Many German universities do not require the GRE, especially for Master’s programs. However, some programs, particularly at the PhD level or in competitive fields like STEM and Business, may require or strongly prefer GRE scores. It’s crucial to check each university’s specific requirements.
Most German universities that consider the GRE focus on the General Test. Subject Tests are less common, but it’s always best to check the specific program requirements.
You’ll need to request that ETS (Educational Testing Service) send your scores directly to the universities you’re applying to. You’ll need the university’s institution code.
This was all about the GRE-accepting universities in Germany. If you are planning to study in Germany and need some help regarding the application process, scholarships, or anything else. Get in touch with experts and counsellors at Leverage Edu. For the latest updates around study blogs, you can follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook or subscribe to our newsletter.
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