How Hard is it to Get into German Universities: Germany is a popular destination for students worldwide due to its high-quality education and affordable tuition. However, getting into German universities can be challenging. The admission process is competitive, and students must meet academic, language, and document requirements. Additionally, the application and visa process takes time, so early planning is crucial.
In this guide, we will explore how hard is it to get into German universities, covering key challenges like academic qualifications, language requirements, and documentation. We’ll also discuss the application process, deadlines, and visa requirements to help you plan effectively.
Table of contents
- How Hard is it to Get into German Universities?
- Admission Requirements for German Universities
- How Hard is it to Get into German Universities: Application Process
- Cost of Studying in Germany
- Top 10 Universities in Germany
- Public vs. Private Universities: Which is Easier to Get Into?
- Acceptance Rates of Top German Universities
- Common Challenges Faced by International Applicants
- Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Admission
- FAQs
How Hard is it to Get into German Universities?
Wondering how hard is it to get into German universities? The difficulty depends on the university, program, and your qualifications. Some universities have high acceptance rates, while others, especially for medicine, engineering, and business, are highly competitive.
You’ll need a strong academic background, language proficiency (German or English), and complete documentation to increase your chances. The application process can take 3-4 months, and the visa process adds more time, so planning ahead is crucial. While getting into German universities can be challenging, with proper preparation, early application, and choosing the right universities, you can improve your chances of admission.
Admission Requirements for German Universities
Germany has top universities offering many different programs. To get admission, international students must meet certain academic, language, and financial requirements. Now that you know how hard is it to get into German universities, it’s important to understand their admission requirements. Here’s a simple guide to help you.
Academic Qualifications
The required academic qualifications vary depending on the level of study:
| Degree Level | Required Qualification |
| Bachelor’s | Completion of Class 12 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 50% marks in required subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, etc. Some programs may require a preparatory course (Studienkolleg). |
| Master’s | A three or four-year undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline with the minimum percentage of marks set by the university. |
| PhD | A bachelor’s and/or master’s degree in a related field. Research programs may require specific coursework or credits. |
Official Transcripts
- Transcripts or mark sheets serve as proof of academic performance.
- These documents must be officially issued, signed, and stamped by the university.
- Some programs may require a specific number of credits in subjects like Mathematics, Economics, or Statistics.
Language Proficiency Requirements
Proficiency in either German or English is essential, depending on the program’s language of instruction.
| Language | Requirement | Accepted Exams | Score Range |
| German | Required for programs taught in German. | TestDaF, DSH, Goethe-Zertifikat | TestDaF: TDN 4+, DSH: DSH-2+, Goethe-Zertifikat: C1+ |
| English | Required for programs taught in English. | IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge English | IELTS: 6.5–7.5, TOEFL: 80–100, Cambridge: C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency |
Additional Required Documents
When applying, students must submit supporting documents along with their application, which typically include:
- Passport (valid for the entire duration of the stay)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining academic and career goals
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from teachers or professors
- GRE/GMAT scores (for certain master’s programs)
- Work experience certificate (optional, but beneficial for some programs)
- Research Proposal (mandatory for PhD applicants)
Proof of Financial Resources (Blocked Account – Sperrkonto)
International students must demonstrate financial stability to obtain a German student visa. This can be done by:
- Maintaining a blocked account with at least EUR 11,208 per year
- Submitting a scholarship or sponsorship letter
- Providing a bank loan approval document
German Study Visa Requirements
Once accepted into a university, non-EU students must apply for a student visa. Essential documents for the visa application include:
- University Admission Letter
- Language Proficiency Certificate (German or English)
- Health Insurance Coverage Certificate
- Financial Proof confirming the ability to cover living expenses
- Visa Application Form (available at the German consulate)
Residence Permit for International Student
- EU/EEA students: No residence permit required, but must register with local authorities.
- Non-EU students: Must apply for a residence permit (Aufenthaltserlaubnis) at the Foreigners’ Office (Ausländerbehörde).
- A biometric residence permit (chip card with photo and fingerprints) is issued upon approval.
Health Insurance Requirement
Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany. It covers medical expenses, hospitalization, and medicines in case of illness or accidents.
- Students under 30 can opt for public health insurance, which is more affordable.
- Students over 30 must purchase private health insurance.
- Proof of health insurance is required during university enrollment.
How Hard is it to Get into German Universities: Application Process
Getting into German universities can be challenging, as the application and visa process takes around 9 months. There are two intakes: September/October (deadline: January 15) and March/April (deadline: July 15), so early planning is crucial. Universities take 3-4 months to process applications, and missing documents may go unnoticed. To avoid issues, students should submit all required documents correctly in one go.
Students can apply directly or through UNI ASSIST, which charges EUR 55 for 2-3 universities and EUR 15 per additional university. However, UNI ASSIST only works with partner universities. This highlights how hard is it to get into German universities, so students must prepare well and apply on time.
Cost of Studying in Germany
The cost of studying in Germany is free at public universities, except for a small administration fee each semester. However, private universities can charge between 10,000 to 20,000 euros per year, depending on the course and degree. Even in public universities, students need to pay some fees. These include a social contribution and semester fees, which vary from one university to another. This applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
In addition to tuition fees, students should also consider the cost of living in Germany, which is approximately EUR 1,622 per month for expenses such as accommodation, food, transport, and health insurance.
Top 10 Universities in Germany
Germany is home to some of the top universities in the world, known for their quality education, research excellence, and affordable tuition. Many public universities offer tuition-free programs, attracting students worldwide. Here, we will explore the top 10 universities in Germany and their QS World University Rankings 2025.
| University | City | QS Ranking 2025 | Founded Year | Type |
| Technical University of Munich (TUM) | Munich | 28 | 1868 | Public |
| Ludwig Maximilians University Munich (LMU) | Munich | 59 | 1472 | Public |
| Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg | Heidelberg | 84 | 1386 | Public |
| Free University of Berlin | Berlin | 97 | 1948 | Public |
| RWTH Aachen University | Aachen | 99 | 1870 | Public |
| Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) | Karlsruhe | 102 | 1825 | Public |
| Humboldt University of Berlin (HU Berlin) | Berlin | 126 | 1810 | Public |
| Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin) | Berlin | 147 | 1879 | Public |
| Universität Hamburg | Hamburg | 191 | 1919 | Public |
| Albert Ludwigs University of Freiburg | Freiburg im Breisgau | 212 | 1457 | Public |
Public vs. Private Universities: Which is Easier to Get Into?
The difficulty of getting into German universities depends on whether they are public or private. Public universities are generally more competitive due to their high reputation and low tuition fees. They have strict admission requirements, including good academic scores, language proficiency tests (TestDaF, DSH, IELTS, or TOEFL), and in some cases, Numerus Clausus (NC) restrictions that limit seats for certain programs. Private universities, on the other hand, are easier to get into as they have more flexible admission criteria and fewer applicants per seat. However, they come with higher tuition fees. So, how hard is it to get into German universities? It ultimately depends on the university type, your academic performance, and the course you choose.
Acceptance Rates of Top German Universities
How Hard is it to Get into German Universities? It depends on the acceptance rate. Some universities are very competitive, while others have higher acceptance rates and easier admission requirements. Public universities usually have strict criteria, while private universities are more flexible. The table below shows the acceptance rates of top German universities to help you understand your chances.
| University Name | Acceptance Rate | Location | Type | Language Requirements |
| University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) | 100% | Duisburg & Essen | Public | German |
| Berlin International University of Applied Sciences | 60% | Berlin | Private | English |
| Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU Munich) | 55% | Munich | Public | German, Some English Programs |
| Humboldt University of Berlin | 47% | Berlin | Public | German, Some English Programs |
| University of Freiburg | 33% | Freiburg | Public | German, Some English Programs |
| Eberhard Karls University of Tübingen | 20% | Tübingen | Public | German, Some English Programs |
Also Read:
Common Challenges Faced by International Applicants
Applying to German universities can be exciting, but international students often face several challenges throughout the process. From meeting language requirements to navigating complex admission procedures, these hurdles can make the journey difficult. Here are some common challenges faced by international applicants when applying to German universities:
- Language Barrier – Many programs require German proficiency (TestDaF, DSH), which can be difficult for non-German speakers.
- Strict Admission Requirements – Public universities have high academic standards and may require specific qualifications.
- Numerus Clausus (NC) Restrictions – Some courses, like medicine and law, have limited seats and require top grades.
- Visa and Residence Permit – Obtaining a student visa involves paperwork, proof of funds, and long processing times.
- Blocked Account Requirement – Applicants must show financial proof for living expenses.
- Recognition of Foreign Qualifications – Some degrees may need additional certification or Studienkolleg (preparatory course).
- Application Process Complexity – Different universities have different portals (Uni-Assist, Hochschulstart), making it confusing.
- Housing Issues – Finding affordable student housing in cities like Munich or Berlin can be challenging.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Admission
Getting into a German university can be competitive, but with the right preparation and strategy, you can improve your chances of admission. Here are some essential tips to help you secure a spot in your desired program.
- Maintain Strong Academics – Ensure you meet the required grades for your chosen program. Competitive courses may have higher cutoffs.
- Improve Language Skills – Most programs require German proficiency (TestDaF, DSH) or English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL) for admission.
- Apply Early – Start your application process at least 9-12 months in advance to meet deadlines and avoid last-minute issues.
- Prepare a Complete Application – Submit all required documents, including transcripts, SOP, LORs, and CV, in one go to avoid rejection.
- Choose the Right University – Research universities that match your qualifications and have a higher acceptance rate.
- Use UNI ASSIST – If your university is a UNI ASSIST partner, applying through their portal ensures proper document evaluation.
- Gain Relevant Experience – Some programs prefer applicants with internships or work experience in their field.
- Meet Financial Requirements – Ensure you have a blocked account or proof of sponsorship for the visa process.
- Apply to Multiple Universities – Increase your chances by applying to 5-10 universities instead of just one or two.
- Prepare for Interviews (if required) – Some universities may conduct an online interview, so be ready to showcase your motivation and skills.
Hope you liked reading our blog about How Hard is it to Get into German Universities. Fly Homes is your trusted platform to find the best student accommodation abroad. Call 1800572118 to reserve your ideal accommodation abroad with ease.
FAQs
Admission to German universities varies depending on the institution and program. Public universities, especially top-ranked ones like TU Munich, LMU Munich, and Heidelberg University, are highly competitive due to free tuition and high demand. Private universities have higher acceptance rates but charge tuition fees. Your academic performance, language skills, and application documents play a crucial role in securing admission.
If you apply for an English-taught program, German proficiency is not required. However, learning German helps in daily life, internships, and job opportunities. Some universities may ask for basic A1–A2 German knowledge
International students face additional challenges like academic recognition, language requirements, and visa procedures. However, with strong grades, relevant qualifications, and well-prepared applications, securing admission is achievable. Some programs have limited seats, increasing competition.
Uni-Assist is a centralized platform that evaluates international applications for many German universities. You upload documents, pay a processing fee, and Uni-Assist checks whether you meet the requirements before forwarding your application to universities.
Some technical and business programs require GRE (minimum 310) or GMAT (600+). However, many universities do not mandate these exams, especially for non-business or non-research-based programs.
A blocked account is a financial requirement for a German student visa. You must deposit EUR 11,208, which allows monthly withdrawals of EUR 934 to cover living expenses. It proves to the authorities that you can support yourself in Germany.
No, admission difficulty varies. Technical universities (TUs) and top research universities have strict selection criteria, while Universities of Applied Sciences (Fachhochschulen) focus more on practical experience and may have easier entry. Private universities usually have a higher acceptance rate.
Yes, students can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year. Typical student jobs include research assistant, tutor, retail jobs, and internships, paying around EUR 12–EUR 15 per hour. However, working too much can affect academic performance.
Public universities charge little or no tuition fees. However, students must cover living expenses, which range from EUR 850–EUR 1,200 per month. Private universities charge EUR 10,000–EUR 30,000 per year.
Yes, students can apply for an 18-month job-seeking visa. If you secure a job, you can apply for a Blue Card or permanent residence after working for a few years.
Follow Us on Social Media
