Monday, April 15, 2024

Step 2: This is how you apply to universities in Germany?

Nikita Haupt

April 15

Once you are done with Step 1: Initiate your University-Application Process for Germany! you need to get to step 2. This involves careful preparation and strategic planning. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process once you have a list of potential universities:

Step 1: Research University Programs and Requirements

Info: German universities offer diverse programs with different focuses, even within the same field like Computer Science. Requirements can vary significantly from one university to another. Make a list and make sure you read everything carefully. In case of doubts, write them down aside and clarify them by emailing someone from the department the students' center, or me.
Action: Review the specific Computer Science Master's programs at each university on your list. Focus on the curriculum, faculty expertise, departmental resources, and any specializations that align with your career goals. Check each program's admission requirements, such as GPA, prerequisite courses, language proficiency (German and/or English), and standardized tests like GRE.

Step 2: Prepare Application Materials

Info: You probably know already that admission to German universities is a competitive deal, and strong application materials are crucial. You are the only one who can make your application count and stand out from others.
Action: Prepare your academic CV, and motivation letters tailored to each university, and gather your academic transcripts. Obtain letters of recommendation from professors or employers who know your academic and professional skills well. Prepare for and take any required standardized tests if you haven't done so already.

Step 3: Check Language Requirements and Proficiency

Info: Many programs in Germany are taught in German, although a significant number are also offered in English, especially at the graduate level. Many universities are now even offering lectures for a selective set of subjects for undergraduates in English. However, since the entire course would be still in German, you might have to take German courses and prove your proficiency before.
Action: Verify the language requirements for the programs you are interested in. If necessary, take a German language course or improve your English proficiency to meet the admission standards. Common tests include TestDaF, DSH for German, and TOEFL or IELTS for English. I would highly recommend, not to run away from the German language and, to take it as a challenge to do something new and interesting in your life. You must learn and communicate in German, here's why!

Step 4: Understand the Financial Requirements

Info: Although many public universities in Germany do not charge tuition fees, students are still required to cover living expenses and a semester fee. I have written in detail about the semester fee, what it is, and what is included.
Action: Research the cost of living in the cities where the universities are located. Prepare a financial plan that includes housing, food, health insurance, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses. Explore scholarship opportunities, such as DAAD scholarships, and consider part-time work if your visa allows.

Step 5: Submit Applications and Arrange Logistics

Info: Application deadlines can vary; some might require submission almost a year in advance. Most of the universities are fast and usually demand submitting your application 4-5 months before the semester begins. This means, if you want to apply for Winter Semester 2025, you should begin your applications in the Summer Semester 2025. But again, make sure you know when is your deadline.
Action: Submit your applications before the deadline. Once accepted, apply for a student visa, which involves providing proof of financial resources, health insurance, and acceptance to a German university. Finally, arrange for housing and finalize your travel plans to Germany. Applying for a student visa is yet another, challenging - not impossible - process.