The percentage required to study in Germany varies by program and university. For undergraduate courses, a minimum of 70%-80% in 12th grade is typically needed. For postgraduate programs, a 65%-75% or higher in your bachelor’s degree is often required. Competitive courses may demand 75%-85%. Additionally, English-taught programs require IELTS/TOEFL scores, while German-taught courses need proficiency in German (TestDaF, DSH). Some universities assess applications holistically, considering SOPs, LORs, and extracurriculars alongside academic performance.
Explanation
The percentage required to study in Germany depends on the university, program, and level of study (undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral). Here are some general guidelines:
For Undergraduate Programs:
- Eligibility Requirements:
- German universities typically require a minimum of 70%-80% in 12th grade or an equivalent qualification.
- A recognised secondary school certificate (like CBSE, ISC, or state board certificates in India) is essential.
- Foundation Courses:
- If your percentage is below the requirement, you may need to complete a Studienkolleg (foundation course) and pass the Feststellungsprüfung (assessment test) to meet the eligibility criteria.
For Postgraduate Programs (Master’s Degrees):
- Bachelor’s Degree Percentage:
- Most universities require a minimum of 65%-75% or a CGPA of 6.5-7.5/10.
- Competitive programs may have higher cut-offs, often 75%-85%.
- Additional Criteria:
- Strong academic performance in relevant subjects.
- Work experience, internships, or research projects may compensate for slightly lower percentages in some cases.
Other Considerations:
- Language Requirements:
- English-taught programs: Require IELTS (6.0-7.0 bands) or TOEFL (80-100 iBT).
- German-taught programs: Require proficiency in German (TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe-Zertifikat).
- Credit Transfer Systems:
- Universities may evaluate applications using the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS) and consider academic credentials holistically.
- Special Cases:
- Universities with no fixed percentage criteria might focus on your statement of purpose (SOP), letters of recommendation (LORs), and extracurricular achievements.
Look at some admission requirements to study in Germany: