Germany University Admission Process
What are the requirements to get admission in Germany?
German universities are like those almost anywhere else: they need to know that the students they are admitting have the skills and passion required to thrive during their study period.
In fact, leading German universities are especially keen to assess applicants to ensure that all classes have a high ability level.
When you start the application process, you'll come across a series of German university admissions process and eligibility criteria. These vary between degree programs and universities, but they tend to have these elements in common. It's very rare to find a course that doesn't require some variation on this template:
1. A Completely filled-out Application Form
This is the core of any application. Forms vary, but will always require personal information such as your name, address, and age. There will be questions about your prior qualifications and academic history, as well as spaces to explain your motivation to study.
It's important to fill this out completely accurately as any discrepancies could rule your application invalid. So take time and read each question carefully.
You can apply to a German university online in almost all cases. This tends to be the preferred option, as it allows you to erase mistakes easily and save your form to complete at a later date.
2. University Entrance Qualification
To study at German universities, all applicants require what is known as a Hochschulzugangsberechtigung (or HZB).
This qualification proves that applicants have reached high school graduation level, and that they have the knowledge required to matriculate.
Most international school leaving certificates are valid, but to be sure, double check the DAAD's database of valid HZBs.
3. Recognized academic certificates
Most international students will also have to supply documents providing that they possess the right academic credentials.
This will entail scanning accurate certified copies of your certificates, or photocopying them using a high-quality device, and mailing them to your German university (usually with your application form).
The actual certificates will vary between countries. For example, UK A Level requirements for German universities typically specify 3 or 4 A Levels, with a foreign language and one of the sciences.
4. Other Admission process requirements
In some cases, universities will demand that all applicants can prove that they speak German fluently. In this case, foreign applicants may have to obtain a Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (DSH) certificate.
At Masters level, applicants may also require an English speaking certificate. At that level, few applicants from outside the EU are admitted without an IELTS qualification or its equivalent. But remember: at BA level, German speaking is much more important.
Students must also have a valid visa before they will be accepted. This generally requires the creation of a blocked account holding at least €10,332, and purchasing some form of health insurance. And it will also be necessary to send a copy of your passport, along with a few passport photos.