How to Transfer ECTS Credits Between German Universities: A Complete Guide

If you’re planning to change universities or programs in Germany, one of your biggest concerns might be whether your hard-earned credits will count. Understanding how to transfer ECTS credits in Germany is essential for making sure your academic progress stays on track.

This guide explains how the ECTS credit transfer system works, what to expect from the credit recognition process, and how to improve your chances of having your previous coursework accepted, whether you're switching programs or continuing your degree in a new city.

What is the ECTS System?

The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) is used to make education systems across Europe more transparent and compatible. It’s a core part of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), created through the Bologna Process.

At its core, ECTS credits represent the workload required to complete a course. One academic year of full-time study usually equals 60 ECTS credits. This system is widely used by every higher education institution in Germany and across Europe.

The ECTS makes it easier for international students to study in Germany, switch institutions, or pursue a Master's degree without losing progress.

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When Do You Need ECTS Credit Transfer?

You’ll need to go through a credit recognition process if:

• You're transferring from one German university to another

• You’re switching degree programs (even at the same university)

• You’re applying to start in a higher semester based on previous studies

• You studied in your home country or another European country and want your academic qualifications recognized

Can You Transfer Credits Between German Universities?

Yes, but credit recognition isn’t automatic. Each higher education institution in Germany has its own process and rules. The examinations office (Prüfungsamt) or international office usually oversees this.

The university will compare:

• The number of credits earned

• The course content and learning outcomes

• The grading system used in your previous institution

Some universities also use an ECTS credits calculator to help evaluate your records.

Tip: Always ask early about the university’s credit transfer process. Requirements may differ depending on your degree program and faculty.

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How to Transfer ECTS Credits Step-by-Step

1. Gather Your Documents
   Collect your Transcript of Records and course/module descriptions. The more detailed, the better.

2. Contact the Target University
   Get in touch with the examinations office or international office to request their credit transfer procedures. Some may have an application form or an online portal.

3. Submit for Credit Recognition
   Submit your documents for ECTS recognition in Germany. This may include an evaluation of your academic qualifications by the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB) if your prior studies were outside the EU.

4. Receive Evaluation or Learning Agreement
   The university will issue a credit transfer decision or Learning Agreement showing which courses were accepted.

5. Enroll and Plan Your Courses
   Once credits are confirmed, your transfer of credits will be integrated into your new course plan. This will help you avoid repeating classes and potentially shorten your study period.

Important Tips for a Smooth Credit Transfer

• Start early, especially before winter or summer semester deadlines

• Save detailed course outlines and assignments, where possible

• Use official translations if your documents are not in German or English

• Don’t assume everything will be accepted, especially if learning outcomes differ

• Keep a record of all communications and approvals in writing

Why Credits Might Not Be Accepted

Unfortunately, not all credits earned will always transfer. Reasons may include:

• The course content doesn’t match the new program

• The number of credit hours is too low

• Incompatible grading systems

• Missing or unclear documentation

If only partial recognition is given, you might still be able to skip some courses or get conditional credit.

Additional Considerations: Transferring from Outside Germany

Suppose you’ve completed part of your studies in your home country or another country within the European Higher Education Area. In that case, the ECTS system is designed to help, but differences in academic calendars, structures, and expectations can still lead to challenges.

Bologna Process Compatibility

Many countries across Europe follow the Bologna Process, which means your courses are likely aligned with German standards. Still, it's not guaranteed. For example:

• A course in economics from Spain might not match a business module in Germany

• Language of instruction and assessment style can also impact recognition

Recognizing Credits from Non-EU Countries

If you studied outside of Europe, your academic qualifications may need to be formally evaluated by the Central Office for Foreign Education (ZAB). This evaluation is especially important when transferring to a Master degree program.

Make sure to:

• Provide full course descriptions and contact hours

• Include official translations if needed

• Check whether your degree qualifies you to study in Germany (some degrees may not meet entry requirements for certain programs)

Timeline for Credit Recognition

Processing times vary but can take several weeks, especially during high-volume periods like before the winter or summer semesters. Starting early ensures fewer delays in your application process.

Transferring credits can feel daunting, but it’s doable, especially when you know what to expect. Understanding the ECTS system in Germany, preparing the right documents, and reaching out early will help you protect your academic progress.

This guide is part of a broader series on navigating university transfers in Germany. If you're planning a bigger move, you can find helpful steps in our main guide: How to Transfer from One University to Another in Germany.

Be sure to explore other relevant guides:

• Switching Courses or Universities in Germany

• Transferring to a New City in Germany as a Student

FAQs

Can I transfer ECTS credits from another EU country?

Yes, thanks to the ECTS and the European Higher Education Area, credit transfer across borders is possible — but still subject to individual university review.

Do I need to start from the first semester if some credits aren’t accepted?

Not always. You might enter a higher semester with partial recognition, depending on the program.

Is there a national body that approves transfers?

No, each German university makes its own decision. For foreign qualifications, some may consult the Central Office for Foreign Education.

Do private universities follow the same ECTS system?

Most do, but the transferability of credits to public universities may vary.