Prussian Diary will help you to move in Germany as a student. Today I will describe you the total guideline A to Z step by step about how to study in Germany as a foreign student.
Which Intake Should you Target?
Germany mainly has two intakes: Winter and Summer. The Winter intake basically starts from September/October. Winter is considered as the main intake for international applicants, as most universities offer a wide range of programs. So, if you apply in Winter, you will find more subjects, and the chances of getting an offer letter are high. The Summer intake, starting in March/April, may have fewer course offerings and be less competitive.
Language Selection
In Germany, for day-to-day use, the German language will be a plus point for you and also helpful for searching part-time/full-time jobs. But for study, most courses are held in English. Moreover, some courses are offered in German as well. So, before the selection of your subject, read carefully about the courses.
For English medium courses, most universities require only a 5.5/6.0/6.5 band score. So, if you have a 6.5 and no band less than 6, you can easily apply to 95% of the courses.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Master’s Degree in Germany
Step 1: Decide Your Target Subjects
First, decide which subjects you want to apply for. Use the DAAD website to search for courses. However, keep in mind that the DAAD portal may not always have the most up-to-date information. Once you find a course name, verify all details on the university’s official website.
While using the DAAD filter, select only Master’s and No Tuition Fees—avoid selecting specific departments. This is important because some subjects like Data Science may fall under the Life Sciences department at one university, but under Mathematics at another. So, instead of filtering too narrowly, explore all possible subject options. The more options you consider, the higher your chances of finding the right program.
Key Considerations When Choosing a Subject:
- Your Master’s program should be related to your Bachelor’s degree.
- Check if the Master’s program requires specific coursework from your Bachelor’s.
Example: TU Dortmund’s Data Science program requires 9 ECTS in Statistics. - Check details like:
- Intake semester (Winter/Summer)
- Application deadlines
- IELTS requirements
- Required documents
- Whether German language proficiency is needed
- If a motivation letter or recommendation letter is required, write your own—don’t copy. Get recommendation letters from your university professors or job supervisors.
- Confirm whether the university allows deferral or online enrollment. (Refer to the FAQ section below for details.)
- Check whether the application is through Uni-Assist or the university’s own portal.
- Identify whether the application process is restricted or non-restricted.
Note:
- Uni-Assist application fees: €75 for the first application per semester, €30 for each additional one.
- Some universities (e.g., TU Ilmenau, DIT) charge application processing fees, even on their own portals.
- Some require notarized hard copies of your documents.
- Always check if the application is “Online-only”—if not, you’ll need to mail physical documents.
Keep track of university lists and requirements in an Excel sheet. This helps you stay organized and apply efficiently.
For students with an engineering background, CGPA is crucial. While many programs are available, CGPA-based restrictions may limit your options. So, calculate your chances carefully before applying.
Step 2: Book Your Appointment
Once you’ve selected your courses, book an appointment for the embassy. If your appointment date overlaps with the Winter intake, apply to as many courses as you can that meet the medium of instruction requirements—Winter offers a wider selection of subjects.
Step 3: Take the IELTS
The embassy requirement is a minimum band score of 5.5, but aim for 6.5 overall with no band below 6. This opens the door to almost 95% of available courses. Once you have your score, start applying to your selected subjects.
Step 4: Wait for Offer Letters
Once you receive offer letters, proceed with enrollment or request a deferral if necessary. Enrollment instructions are usually included in your offer letter. For deferral, contact your department advisor or admissions office by email.
Step 5: Health Insurance
If your university allows online enrollment, you must have health insurance.
- Under 30? Register for TK insurance via Coracle: Coracle TK Student Insurance
- 30 or older? Use Mawista: Mawista Student Health Insurance
Step 6: Open a Blocked Account
You can choose between Fintiba and Coracle, both are reliable options.
You will need your student file to open a blocked account—prepare it in advance through your local bank.
Step 7: Prepare for the Embassy Call
Once everything is ready, wait for the embassy call. Attend your visa interview, collect your passport, and you’re all set to start your journey to Germany!
General FAQs
Where can I find courses?
What does restricted vs. non-restricted application mean?
- Restricted: Limited seats; offers are based on best profiles.
- Non-restricted: First-come, first-served if requirements are met.
Does work experience add value?
- Yes, but CGPA is most important.
Can I apply with a low CGPA?
- Yes, but your chances increase with a higher CGPA. Aim for a German grade of 1.0–2.5.
How to convert CGPA to German grading system?
What is the minimum passing grade?
- The minimum CGPA required to graduate from your Bachelor’s—usually 2.0–2.5.
How do I know if deferral or online enrollment is available?
- Email the course advisor or admission office.
How to pay application/enrollment fees?
- Use a dual currency card or get help from someone in the Schengen area.
Does a higher IELTS score improve my chances?
- Not significantly, as long as you meet the minimum.
Do publications and extracurriculars help?
- Yes, they add value to your profile.
Which documents to upload on Uni-Assist?
- HSC certificate & transcript
- BSc certificate & transcript
- Medium of instruction
- Course curriculum & module
- Minimum passing grade
- CV
- Motivation letter
- Recommendation letters
- All achievement certificates
What is deferral?
- If you receive an offer for Summer 2023 but can’t join, and your course allows deferral, you can request a new offer for Winter 2023.
What is online enrollment?
- You can enroll in your course and attend online classes remotely if the course allows it.
What is a student file?
- A document set that includes offer letters, blocked account confirmation, academic certificates, and transcripts—required for various processes including blocked accounts and embassy applications.