1. Identify Suitable English‑Taught Programs
First, you need to find which universities and courses are offered in English. Many master’s programs and some bachelor’s degrees are now fully in English. You can use these resources:
- The DAAD database (“Study in Germany”) to filter by language of instruction (English).
- University websites clearly indicate whether a course is English‑taught.
- Private universities often have more English‑taught bachelor’s programs.
Decide whether you want a bachelor’s, master’s or MBA, and note down all the programs you’re interested in, along with their eligibility criteria.
2. Check Academic & Entrance Requirements
Once you have your list, check what each university requires:
- Higher Education Entrance Qualification (HZB): For bachelor’s level, your school diploma must be recognized. If it isn’t, you may need to do a preparatory course (Studienkolleg) or take entrance exams.
- For master’s: you’ll need your bachelor’s degree with a good GPA (and often relevant subject alignment). Some courses may require standardized test scores (GRE/GMAT) depending on discipline.
Make sure to check if your qualification is acceptable, or whether you need an additional certificate (like APS in India or VPD via Uni‑Assist) to validate your academic credentials.
3. Prove English Language Proficiency
English‑taught programs will require proof of English proficiency unless you studied in English or hold certain qualifications already. Typical accepted tests include:
- IELTS (often minimum around 6.0 to 6.5 for undergrad, higher for masters)
- TOEFL iBT (e.g. 80+ or more, depending on the university)
- Cambridge English tests (like First Certificate or equivalent) may also be accepted.
Always check in the specific course listing what score is required and whether your test score is valid (how old it is allowed to be). I
4. Gather Required Documents
You’ll need to prepare several documents. Some common ones are:
- Valid passport copy
- CV or résumé
- Statement of Purpose or motivation letter explaining why you want to be in that program
- Academic transcripts & degree certificates, with certified translations if not in English or German.
- Letters of recommendation (often 2‑3) depending on the program level.
If required, get APS or VPD certification for your degree credentials from recognised bodies.
5. Check Application Route & Process
You will apply either:
- Directly via the university’s application portal, or
- Via Uni‑Assist if that university requires it for international students.
Universities list on their website whether they use Uni‑Assist. If so, you’ll need to use their system to pre‑check your documents.
Make sure to understand the deadlines, whether they accept late applications, whether additional admission tests are needed, or interviews or portfolio (for design, arts) are required.
6. Apply Before Deadline
Deadlines vary by university and by semester (winter vs summer). As a rule of thumb:
- For winter semester, many courses have deadlines around mid‑July.
- For summer semester, deadlines are often in December‑January period.
Submit your complete application packet (all documents, test scores, translations etc.) before the deadline. If you are using Uni‑Assist, allow buffer time for their processing.
7. Pay Application or Processing Fees
If applying via Uni‑Assist, you will pay a processing fee. Also, some private universities may have application fees. Direct applications may or may not have a fee depending on policy.
Ensure that you know the fee, how to pay (online or bank transfer), and any additional fees (translation, evaluation) so there are no surprises.
8. Apply for Visa & Financial Proof
After you receive an acceptance/admission letter:
- Apply for a student visa if you are from a non‑EU country. You’ll need to show financial proof (blocked account or equivalent), health insurance, and valid passport.
- Make arrangements for health insurance (public or private, depending on your age and program).
It’s best to start visa and financial documentation as soon as you have the admission offer, because processing can take several weeks.
9. Arrive, Enroll & Start
Once you arrive in Germany:
- Enroll formally at the university (submit original documents, pay semester fees, get student ID).
- Attend orientation events for international students.
- If needed, take up preparatory or bridging courses (language or subject related) to help you settle into the program.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application for English‑Taught Courses
- Tailor your motivation letter/SOP to explain why you want that course and why Germany.
- Maintain strong academic records; even if your GPA is not perfect, showing growth or relevant experience helps.
- Have good English test scores; exceeding the minimum helps.
- If possible, contact professors or departments to show interest.
- Apply to multiple programs to improve your chances.