How to apply for a degree program in Germany
The application period for fall 2020 degree programs has started at most German universities and universities of applied sciences. Here’s how you can apply as an international degree-seeking student - and some aspects to consider in times of the Corona crisis.
If you are playing with the idea to pursue a university degree in Germany, you probably have lots of questions: What and where should I study? How do the application procedures work? And am I eligible in the first place? Now that the coronavirus pandemic has left the world with many uncertainties, international applicants, on top of that, will have to consider rapidly changing circumstances when planning to study abroad.
Should I still study abroad at all?
This is a difficult question to answer. In general, Germany has been handling the crisis quite successfully, and public life is slowly returning to normal. However, universities remain closed for now and nobody knows how the situation will evolve until Fall. The start of Fall classes has already been moved to November 2 (typically they start in early October). Universities prepare for all eventualities, e.g. by planning on continued and expanded virtual teaching, which would allow international students to virtually participate in class. Regularly updated information on travel and entry restrictions as well as other regulations can be found on the website of the Federal Foreign Office.
Despite all these uncertainties, studying in Germany remains a highly beneficial option for international students: low to no tuition fees, lower living costs than in most other European countries, vibrant student cities and state-of-the-art universities providing high quality education make Germany a popular destination among international students. Many degree programs, particularly at the graduate level, are offered in English. (We do recommend learning German anyways, as it will be hugely culturally beneficial!)
How do I apply to study in Germany?
Before you apply, you will have to choose a degree program(s) and meet the respective admission requirements. Here, we will assume that you have already taken these steps and are ready to apply. If you are still looking for the right program, please check out the Higher Education Compass offered by the German Rectors’ Conference, to filter through all available degree programs. You will find English speaking programs at the UAS7 universities . To find out whether you meet the general admission requirements to study in Germany, have a look at Study in Germany’s information on higher education entrance qualifications.
There are different ways to apply to university in Germany, depending on the program you want to study. In most cases, international students will have to apply through uni-assist, a non-profit organization which reviews international certificates for the universities. Uni-assist recommends to submit applications at least six weeks before the program application deadline, meaning that June would be a good time to start your application. You will find all further information on how to apply on the uni-assist website. Please make sure to also thoroughly read through the admission requirements of the program you apply for before starting your application, so that you don’t miss out on any important documents when completing your application. We also want to encourage you to contact us at info@uas7.org for admission information for our particular programs and particularities and we will be happy to connect you to the right people.
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