Application to study in Germany

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1. Conditions for Studying in Germany

Being admitted into a German university is more challenging than in many other countries.

First, students must prepare for the TestAS (for undergraduate programs) and APS (for postgraduate programs). Then, depending on the study level, additional requirements apply.

a. Bachelor’s level – for international students:

• Graduation from high school;
• GPA approximately 7.0/10;
• Passing the entrance exam into a university recognized by Germany (total of 4 subjects = 24 points, no subject below 4);
• English-taught programs: IELTS >6.0;
• German-taught programs: German certificate B1, each skill >70;
• TestAS result.

Sample TestAS:

• In German, view here 
• In English, view here

TestAS is an assessment used to evaluate the academic ability of international students applying to German universities. It helps students understand their standing compared to other international applicants. TestAS can be taken in German or English (B1 level recommended) and includes:

• Language Screening (online) – approx. 30 minutes;
• Core Test – written, 110 minutes;
• Subject-Specific Module – written, 145-150 minutes, divided into: Humanities, Cultural Studies & Social Sciences; Engineering; Mathematics, Computer Science & Natural Sciences; Economics.

b. Master’s level:

• Recognized Bachelor’s degree;
• English-taught programs: IELTS >6.5;
• German-taught programs: ≥B1;
• Average duration: 2 years;
• APS Certification: Submit or send documents to APS by mail no later than the end of February (for May interviews) or the end of August (for November interviews).

APS: Since 01/01/2007, all students wishing to study in Germany must undergo academic verification at APS (Akademische Prüfstelle), located at the Consular and Visa Section of the German Embassy in home country. APS verifies whether the student meets the basic requirements to enter a German university by:

• Checking the authenticity of submitted documents;
• Conducting an interview (20-30 minutes) about the student’s previous academic background.

The interview is conducted in German or English depending on the applicant’s preference. It is NOT a language exam, but the applicant must be able to communicate – meaning at least strong beginner-level proficiency.

2. Application Documents for Studying in Germany:

When applying to German universities, pay close attention to intake periods and deadlines.

• Winter intake starts in September/October → recommended application period: May-July;
• Summer intake starts in March/April → recommended application deadline: before 15 January.

Each university has different application methods. Some accept documents by post, some via online application. Most universities now use Uniassist, a centralized document-checking service. Uniassist verifies the completeness and correctness of the application before sending it to universities for evaluation.Processing time usually takes 4-8 weeks.

A complete application file generally includes:

• Passport;
• Birth certificate (if passport not available);
• Highest academic degree;
• Transcript corresponding to the degree / latest 2 years of study records;
• Statement of Purpose (SOP);
• TestAS / APS results;
• German B1 certificate (if studying in German) or IELTS / equivalent English certificate (if studying in English);
• Employment confirmation / work contract (for Master’s / PhD applicants).

3. Steps for Preparing a Study Application in Germany:

a. For students who have NOT graduated from a university in home country:

Including the following groups:

• High school graduates who passed the entrance exam into a recognized university and have not yet started university studies;
• Students currently enrolled in a university but not yet graduated;
• College graduates;
• College graduates who have been accepted as transfer students into a university.

Suggested steps:

1. Study German and English;
2. Update admission requirements for German universities;
3. Research German universities, Studienkollegs, and suitable academic programs;
4. Register for the TestAS exam;
5. Take the TestAS exam (February, April, October annually);
6. Receive TestAS results;
7. Prepare all required documents for APS verification, university/Studienkolleg applications, opening a blocked account, and visa application;
8. Submit APS documents to the German Embassy (immediately after receiving the university admission notice; TestAS and German certificate not yet required at this stage);
9. Receive APS certificate; send university/Studienkolleg applications to Germany;
10. Receive Letter of Admission / Entrance Exam Invitation;
11. Open a blocked account at a bank;
12. Submit visa application to the German Embassy / Consulate;
13. Receive visa result;
14. Prepare for departure;
15. Enroll at the German institution.

b. For students who HAVE graduated from a university in home country

and wish to:

• Study another Bachelor’s degree in Germany, or:
• Study a Master’s degree in Germany.

Suggested steps:

1. Study German and English;
2. Update Master’s program entry requirements in Germany;
3. Research German universities and suitable Bachelor/Master’s programs;
4. Prepare all required documents for APS verification, university applications, blocked account, and visa;
5. Submit APS documents to the German Embassy (by end of February or end of August annually);
6. Attend APS interview (in May or November annually);
7. Receive APS certificate;
8. Open a blocked account at a bank;
9. Send applications for Bachelor/Master programs to Germany;
10. Receive Letter of Admission / Entrance Exam Invitation;
11. Submit visa application to the German Embassy / Consulate;
12. Receive visa result;
13. Prepare for departure;
14. Enroll at the German institution.

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