1. Why do students choose Germany?
Most public universities charge no tuition, only a semester contribution. Many Master's programmes are taught fully in English. Degrees are respected across Europe, and graduates can stay on an 18-month job-seeker permit after finishing.
2. Is it really free? What does it cost?
Tuition at most public universities is free, with one notable exception: Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU students €1,500 per semester. Everyone pays a semester contribution, usually a few hundred euros, which often includes a regional transport pass.
On top of that, you need to budget for rent, food, health insurance and one-time setup costs. Living costs vary a lot by city — Munich is far more expensive than Dresden or Chemnitz.
3. What are the intakes?
Germany has two intake seasons:
Starts: October
Applications typically close: May – July
This is the main intake with the widest choice of programmes. Most students should target this.
Starts: April
Applications typically close: November – January
Fewer programmes admit at this time. Always confirm on the specific programme page.
Deadlines differ by university and even by programme. Always confirm on the programme's own page, and apply well ahead of the date.
4. What is APS, and do I need it?
APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) is the academic evaluation centre that verifies the authenticity of your Indian academic documents. It is mandatory for all Indian students applying to German universities, and universities will not process your application without the APS certificate.
You register online, pay the fee, and submit your documents as per the APS checklist. For a Master's applicant this includes your degree certificate and semester marksheets, your Class 10 and 12 records, and your passport. Always follow the current checklist on the APS India website. Do not send originals unless the checklist asks for them.
Processing time depends on the season, and the weeks before application deadlines are the busiest. Build at least 2–3 months into your timeline for APS alone.
5. What is dMAT, and who has to take it?
The dMAT (Digital Master Test) is a newly introduced test linked to the APS process. It applies to Master's applicants from India whose previous degree is in:
- Engineering
- Commerce, Accounting, Finance or Economics
- Business or Management
It applies to applications for the Summer Semester 2027 intake and later. You are exempt if you completed APS online registration, or shipped your complete APS documents, before 29 June 2026. Bachelor's and PhD applicants are exempt, and so is anyone who already holds an APS certificate.
A few more things worth knowing:
• The test covers general cognitive and analytical ability. It is not a test of memorised subject facts.
• APS can only issue your certificate after your dMAT certificate has been submitted and checked. You can submit your other APS documents first.
• A low score does not automatically mean APS rejection. dMAT is not a stand-alone pass/fail test.
• Check d-mat.de for the next registration window and test dates.
6. Which documents will I need?
Exact lists vary by university, but you should be ready with these:
7. How do I actually apply?
There are two routes, and the programme page tells you which one applies:
- Through uni-assist — a central portal that evaluates international applications on behalf of many universities. The first application costs €75 and each additional one €30. It also issues a preliminary review document (VPD) that many universities rely on.
- Directly through the university's own portal — increasingly common.
Many students end up using both across their shortlist. Deadlines and fees are separate for each application, so track them carefully.
8. Is a good rank or a famous name enough to get in?
No. In Germany, admission depends on programme fit, your grades relative to the programme's cut-off, and whether your previous coursework matches the subject area, measured in ECTS credits. Many programmes want a set number of credits in specific areas such as mathematics, programming or theory.
A well-built shortlist mixes ambitious options with programmes where your profile is a clear match.
9. Do I need GRE or GATE?
Not everywhere, but a growing number of universities now require one of them for applicants with non-European degrees, and some also apply minimum grade cut-offs. Check this early — it can decide whether a programme belongs on your list at all.
10. How much money do I need for the visa?
For the student visa you need proof of funds, usually through a blocked account (Sperrkonto). The current figure is €11,904 for one year (€992 per month).
This amount is tied to the national student support rate and is updated periodically. Always confirm the current figure on the German embassy website before you open the account.
11. Can I work while studying?
Yes. International students can work part-time within the permitted limits, which helps with living costs. It should not replace proper financial planning before you leave.
12. How early should I start?
Ideally 10 to 12 months before your intake. A realistic order is:
- APS registration (and dMAT, if applicable)
- University shortlisting and programme research
- SOP / Letter of Motivation writing
- Documents collection and translation (if required)
- Applications (uni-assist and/or direct portals)
- Admission letter → Blocked account → Visa application
Each step takes longer than people expect. Starting late is the single most common reason Indian students miss their target intake.