Requirements for Studying in Germany for Indian Students

With more than 43,000 Indian students enrolled in German universities in 2024, the country is a study-abroad favorite. Germany is well-known for its superior STEM education, numerous scholarship opportunities, and low tuition fees.

Many students find it challenging to comprehend the process of studying in Germany as an Indian student. However as per my discussion with several international students in Germany, knowing about the specific requirements of your chosen university can help you prepare a winning application.

So, If you are wondering about the requirements for studying in Germany for Indian students, read this article.

Overview

Find University and Study Program

Choosing the right university and the course is a crucial decision for students. Germany has over 423 accredited higher education institutions that provide over 20,000 courses. 
Students should be clear about their future goals or receive guidance from counselors regarding the best-suited course. They should begin gathering information two months before the application deadline

Requirements for Studying in Germany for Indian Students

Now that you have set your goals, the next step is to know what you need to do to achieve them. It is important to check the entrance requirements at the university of  your choice. Entry requirements for studying in Germany for Indian students vary from one university to another, depending on the chosen course.

You should visit the university’s website and study the section on admittance requirements attentively. You can also take notes and form a strategy to finish each criterion one at a time if necessary. 

If there is anything about the procedures you don’t understand, you should contact the institution by email. 

Some of the general requirements for studying in Germany for Indian students are

Higher Education Entrance Qualification (HZB)

Your eligibility to study abroad in Germany is determined by the "Hochschulzugangsberechtigung" (HZB), which translates to “higher education entrance qualification” It is a necessary process to secure an admission and subsequently obtain a study visa for Germany. 

This can be proven by pathways such as a12-year secondary school leaving certificate, success in national entrance exams, completion of at least one year of university studies or a bachelor’s degree.

Academic Evaluation Center (APS) Certificate

An Authorization for the Purpose of Studies (APS) certificate verifies the equivalence of your Indian educational qualifications to the German higher education entrance qualification.

Proof of Language Proficiency

You need to prove your German or English language proficiency depending on the language of the course you wish to pursue. The common tests are:

For German language proficiency:  DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang) and TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache). 

For English language proficiency: IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programs. 

By carefully preparing the necessary documents and meeting the outlined requirements, Indian students can increase their chances of securing a place in a prestigious German university. After securing admission, you need to apply for a study visa in Germany.

Bachelor's Degree Requirements to Study in Germany

To pursue a bachelor's degree, applicants must fulfill specific requirements such as:

Higher Education Entrance Qualification (HZB)

Here's how international students can qualify for the HZB:

• Completion of an internationally recognized secondary school diploma: This includes diplomas like the IB (International Baccalaureate) or GCE (General Certificate of Education) with the required subject combination for the chosen program.
• Success in national entrance exams: In some cases, ranking high in national entrance exams can qualify for specific fields. For example, Indian students with exceptional scores in the Joint Entrance Examination (Advanced) might qualify for technology and natural sciences programs.
• Completion of one year at a university: Successfully completing one academic year in a relevant field at a recognized university in the applicant's home country can also make them eligible.

Official Transcripts and Academic Certificates

All applicants must submit official transcripts and academic certificates from all previously attended educational institutions. These documents should be translated into German by a certified translator, if necessary.

APS Certificate (for Indian Students)

      This will act as a verification of your high school certificates for studies in Germany.

Feststellungsprüfung (if applicable)

The Feststellungsprüfung is a final exam taken after completing a Studienkolleg, a preparatory course designed for international students whose secondary school qualifications don't directly qualify for the HZB. 

If an applicant attends a Studienkolleg, passing the Feststellungsprüfung is necessary for eligibility to a Bachelor's program.

Proof of Language Proficiency

German is the primary language of instruction at most German universities. To demonstrate language competency, applicants need to submit a recognized language test score. The two most common tests are:

For German language proficiency, commonly accepted proof includes:

• DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang): This German Language Examination for University Entrance is specifically designed for international students aiming to study in Germany. You must have secured at least DSH-2 on this test to prove German language proficiency. 
• TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache): This Test of German as a Foreign Language is another widely recognized option. You must have attained a level 4 in this test. 

For English language proficiency, commonly accepted proof includes:

German universities will require tests like IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught programs. Typically, an IELTS score of 6.5 and a TOEFL iBT score of 88 are accepted. 
However, it's crucial to always refer to the specific requirements of the chosen program and university for the most up-to-date language proficiency information.

Motivation Letter & Letters of Recommendation 

While not mandatory for all applications, a well-written motivation letter explaining your academic goals and reasons for choosing the program can strengthen your  application. 
Additionally, letters of recommendation from professors or teachers can provide valuable insights into the applicant's academic abilities and work ethic.

CV/Resume

A CV (Curriculum Vitae) or resume is a common document requested in some application processes. It should provide a concise overview of your educational background, relevant skills, and any work experience you might have.

For Bachelor’s Degree in Germany:

Eligibility Criteria 

1. A student must be at least 18 years old.

2. A student must have a certified 12th-grade mark sheet with a minimum of 50%.

3. Depending on the course and university, a student should have SAT or ACT scores ranging from 400 to 1600.

4. According to university requirements, a student must have received the appropriate band scores on the English proficiency test.

Documents Required 

1. 12th Standard Certificate and Scorecard 

2. Transcript of Grades

3. Proof of Language Proficiency

4. ID or Valid Passport Copies

5. Letter of Motivation or Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Bachelor’s Degree Application Cycle in Germany

Undergraduate courses often begin in September or October. By March, students must shortlist 8–12 universities to which they wish to apply. The deadlines for applications are usually in May and June.

Master's Degree Requirements to Study in Germany

Applicants must fulfill specific requirements to secure a place in a German university's master's program. These are:

Higher Education Entrance Qualification (HZB)

Here's how international students can qualify for the HZB:

• Completion of a recognized bachelor's degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification from a recognized university. The degree should be in a field relevant to the desired master's program.
• Four-year undergraduate degree: Usually, a four to four-and-a-half-year undergraduate degree from a reputable institution is also accepted for some courses. 

Official Transcripts and Academic Certificates

You will be required to submit your bachelor’s degree and academic transcripts. 

APS Certificate (for Indian Students)

This certificate is mandatory for Indian students as it serves to authenticate your bachelor’s qualifications. 

Proof of Language Proficiency

The following tests will help you prove your German or English proficiency: 

For German:

• DSH (Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang): For most master’s programs, you must have atleast a level of DSH 2 to prove your German proficiency. 
• TestDaF (Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache): You must have achieved a level 4 in all parts of this test to demonstrate high proficiency in German. 

For English:

Several English language proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL are accepted by German universities. The minimum acceptable scores are IELTS 6.5 and TOEFL iBT 80.

Motivation Letter & Letters of Recommendation 

Letter of recommendations for your master’s applications can be written by your bachelor’s professors. If you have interned or volunteered during your bachelor’s studies, you can also take a recommendation from your supervisors. 

Writing a motivational letter for your master’s would involve highlighting your achievements during your bachelor’s such as any internships, prizes, or research experiences. 

CV/Resume

A résumé for a master’s program should include your past grades, awards, and professional experiences. The latter is particularly important for MBA applicants. 

Academic Prerequisites

Some Master's programs might have specific academic prerequisites in addition to the general requirements. These could include specific coursework completed during the Bachelor's degree, minimum GPA requirements, or standardized test scores such as GRE or GMAT. 

Language Proficiency Requirements for Bachelor’s Degree in Germany

Students will need to submit scores on a standardized language proficiency test. In Germany, almost all undergraduate courses are taught in German. So, if students plan to attend such a course, they will have to learn German. Very few German universities offer courses with English as the medium of instruction. For such institutions, you must have the English language proficiency test scores of IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.

Read More: Want to study in Germany? Choose IU

For Master’s Degree in Germany

Eligibility Criteria

1. An Indian candidate seeking an MA, MSc, or MBA in Germany must hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution. If you have completed a four-year bachelor’s degree, you qualify for direct general admission, whereas if you have completed a three-year bachelor’s degree, you might have to complete a preparatory course (Studienkolleg) for one year before starting your master’s. It strengthens you academically and linguistically to take a course in a German institution.
2. Students must demonstrate English language proficiency by achieving at least 6.0 in IELTS (with a minimum of 5.5 in each component) or 50 in PTE to be eligible to pursue masters in Germany.
3. In Germany, a student must be 21 years old to pursue a master’s degree.
4. For an MS or MBA course, a candidate must have GRE or GMAT scores, with more than 300 scores in GRE and GMAT scores ranging from 550 to 600.

Documents Required 

1. Recognized Bachelor Degree
2. An official transcript of grades
3. Language Proficiency Proof (German or English)
4. A Letter of Motivation or Statement of Purpose (SOP)
5. Important References or Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
6. Professional Experiences (Optional)
7. Curriculum Vitae

Master’s Degree Application Cycle in Germany

Every institution has its own set of application events, which may or may not be identical to those of other colleges. Students can apply for the summer session from December to the January 15th. For the winter semesters, it runs from the beginning of April until July 15th.

Requirements to Apply for MBA in Germany

In addition to the general requirements, MBA programs in Germany might have specific prerequisites. These could include:

• Work Experience: Many MBA programs require a minimum number of years of professional experience in a relevant field.
• Undergraduate Degree: Most universities will require applicants to have completed at least a 3-year bachelor’s degree.
• GMAT or GRE Scores: Some universities might require scores from the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE). However, some programs might waive this requirement for applicants with exceptional academic records and work experience.

Language Proficiency: Your university of choice may require you to prove proficiency in German or English through a recognized test. The minimum scores accepted are IELTS:7 and TOEFL:95.

Language Proficiency for Master’s Degree in Germany

In contrast to undergraduate courses, many master’s level courses are taught in English, either partially or totally. Before applying, students must complete a standardized language test to demonstrate their language skills.

The language skill required to apply for a Master’s degree in Germany varies based on the students’ university, course, and exam.

There are many English-only courses available in Germany. However, some courses are taught in English and German, which is an excellent opportunity to improve German language skills.

1. DSH – German universities only accept this test, and it is one of two German language tests accepted by German institutions.
2. TestDaF – This is a test that colleges recognize in over 100 countries.
3. Goethe-Zertifikat C1 – This test certifies you of advanced skills in the German language.

For courses taught entirely in English, students must take English proficiency tests:

1. PTE Academic
2. IELTS Academic
3. TOEFL iBT

Read More: Career Opportunities in Germany

University Application Process for Indian Students

Students must submit their university applications after completing the application paperwork. Students can complete the application online, by mail, or in person. It is worth noting that, while online applications are the most common, certain German universities only accept applications submitted by mail or in person.

The UniAssist platform, which allows students to apply for courses online, is used by most German universities. On the other hand, several universities operate their own online application portals. Students must submit their application paperwork in PDF or JPG format in any case.

Germany Study Visa Requirements for Indian Students

An Indian student must obtain a visa before enrolling in a German university. They must take a printout of the admission letter and visit the German consulate after they have received it. 

Officers on the premises will list the paperwork and procedures to complete to apply for a student visa to study in Germany. To get a study visa for germany, you need to arrange the following documents:

1. University admission letter

2. Proof of financial resources “Finanzierungsnachweis”

3. Proof of health insurance coverage

4. University entrance qualification

5. Proof of language proficiency

The German Blocked Account confirmation letter is one of the most crucial documents. It verifies that students have sufficient funds to study and live in Germany for a year as international students.

Read More: How to study in Germany for free for Indian Students?

Finding Pocket-Friendly Accommodation in Germany

Being one of the most diverse and vibrant countries, Germany has affordable rented apartments at the most popular locations. We recommend you look out for affordable rented apartments located near the university. If you cannot find an apartment online, you can make a list of addresses where accommodations are available at affordable rates.

You can also look for students who want to share their accommodation. That will save some extra costs. If you don’t have any relatives in Germany, then you can join the online forums made by Indian students already living there and ask them if anyone is willing to share the apartment.

Read More: Settle in Germany from India

Things to Keep in Mind for Studying in Germany

Financial Resources 

Before deciding to pursue your education in Germany, it is important to plan your finances well. To be eligible to study in Germany as an international student, you must have sufficient money. 

Students can demonstrate their financial means to study in Germany in various ways, with the blocked account being by far the most appropriate. To be granted a visa and be permitted to study in Germany, Indian students must have at least EUR 11,208 deposited in their restricted account.

Some Universities Charge Fees 

The majority of international students, especially those from India, are confused by the fees charged in German universities. The majority of public higher education institutes in Germany are free though they still charge for a semester ticket. 

However, there are several states in Germany where universities charge nominal tuition rates, and private colleges in Germany also charge tuition fees to international students.

Work with studies 

Students can cover a specific portion of their expenditure by working part-time during  their studies. Germany allows overseas students to work up to 20 hours a week.

Best German Universities for Indian Students

Based on the QS World University Rankings 2024: Top Global Universities data, the following are the best German universities for Indian students:

Important Resources to Read About Germany:

Read More: Build Career in Data Science in Germany without engineering degree

Scholarship Programs in Germany

The following is a list of the most well-known scholarship programs in Germany:

DAAD: 

This scholarship promotes academic excellence and is offered by Germany’s leading higher education institutions. The application process depends on the program for which you are applying.

Typically, you will be required to submit your proof of German/English proficiency and academic transcripts. The scholarship amount can vary from  € 934(master’s) to  €1,200(PhD) per month.

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship Program: 

This scholarship provides various study options for students from developing countries who wish to pursue masters or doctorate degrees in Germany.
Scholarships cover your visa, travel expenses, and living allowance.

The HHL Leipzig Graduate School of Management Scholarship:

This scholarship is offered by Germany’s oldest business school to international students pursuing degrees in various subjects.

Scholarships are awarded to students with exceptional GMAT scores and who demonstrate leadership potential. The recipients usually receive a deduction in their tuition fees, up to EUR 10,000.

Read More: Germany vs. Canada: Which is better for study abroad?

Health Insurance Coverage for Indian Students Studying in Germany

Having healthcare insurance is mandatory for international students. Indian students should have a health care policy that can cover all their medical needs in a health emergency. You need to apply for healthcare coverage before enrolling in any German university.

Read More: How important is the German language to survive in Germany?

Study with upGrad Abroad 

With a commitment to providing quality education at affordable prices, upGrad Abroad has launched study abroad programs. These programs enable students to study for one year online from home and then on-campus for the following years. With this, learners can save a lot on living costs or other additional expenses. Our programs cost around 1/10th of the regular on-campus studies and learners can save up to 80% of their tuition fees. We have partnered with excellent German institutions like IU International University of Applied Sciences. With partnered universities, we provide high-quality education at affordable fees. upGrad Abroad will also provide students support throughout the application process, visa process, and more.

Read More Resources to Read About Germany: