What documents do I need for German university applications?

Typically: certified transcripts and degree certificates, language proof (IELTS/TOEFL for English programmes, TestDaF/DSH for German), passport copy, CV, Statement of Purpose, and APS certificate if from India, Vietnam, China, or Mongolia. Each university may request additional documents.

When are German university application deadlines?

Winter semester (Oct start): often July 15 for international students. Summer semester (Apr start): often January 15. Some programmes have earlier deadlines. Always check the specific programme and university.

Do I need APS before applying to German universities?

Yes. If you're from India, Vietnam, China, or Mongolia, you must have your APS certificate before universities will process your application. Start APS 3 to 4 months before application deadlines.

Can I apply to multiple German universities at once?

Yes. You can apply to as many programmes as you want. Each application is separate. Use Uni-Assist for many universities, or apply directly depending on the programme. Keep track of deadlines and requirements per university.

Resources

German University Application Checklist: Documents & Deadlines

Complete document checklist for applying to German universities. APS, language proof, transcripts, SOP, and deadline tips.

TL;DR: German university applications need transcripts, language proof (IELTS/TOEFL or TestDaF/DSH), passport, CV, and often a Statement of Purpose. India/Vietnam/China/Mongolia students need APS first. Deadlines vary — winter intake often July 15, summer intake January 15. Start 6 to 12 months ahead.

YourWeg

March 20, 2025

7 min read

A clear checklist keeps you on track. Here’s what you need and when to start.

Core Documents (Almost Every Application)

Document	Notes
Passport	Valid copy; ensure it covers your study period
Transcripts	Certified/attested; all semesters
Degree certificate	Bachelor’s (and Master’s if applicable)
Language proof	IELTS/TOEFL for English; TestDaF/DSH/Goethe for German
CV/Resume	Clear, up to date
Statement of Purpose	Often 500 to 800 words; see our SOP guide

Country-Specific: APS Certificate

If you’re from India, Vietnam, China, or Mongolia, you need an APS certificate before universities will consider your application. Start this process 3 to 4 months before your first deadline. No APS, no application.

Language Requirements

English taught programmes: IELTS Academic (usually 6.0 to 7.0) or TOEFL iBT (80 to 100)
German taught programmes: TestDaF (TDN 4) or DSH (DSH 2) or Goethe C1

Check each programme’s exact requirements. See our language test guide for details.

Typical Deadlines

Intake	Semester start	Common deadline (international)
Winter	October	July 15
Summer	April	January 15

Some programmes close earlier. Some use Uni-Assist (centralised processing); others accept direct applications. Always confirm on the university’s official site.

Application Channels

Uni-Assist: Used by many universities; one portal for multiple applications (fee per university)
Direct application: Some universities and programmes use their own portal
Hochschulstart: For some restricted subjects (e.g. Medicine, Pharmacy)

Step by step Timeline

6 to 12 months before

Research programmes and universities
Check language requirements; book IELTS/TOEFL or TestDaF/DSH if needed
Start APS (if applicable)

3 to 4 months before

Finalise document set; get attestations where required
Draft and tailor your Statement of Purpose per programme
Create Uni-Assist account (if needed)

1 to 2 months before

Submit applications before deadlines
Keep copies of everything you send
Track status in Uni-Assist or university portals

After admission

Accept offer and pay semester fee
Apply for student visa
Open blocked account and arrange health insurance

Common Mistakes

Missing APS: India/Vietnam/China/Mongolia students must complete APS first
Wrong attestation: Documents often need to be certified; follow each university’s instructions
Late applications: Slots fill; apply well before the deadline
Generic SOP: Customise for each programme; avoid copy paste
Ignoring programme specific requirements: Some ask for extra documents (e.g. portfolio, research proposal)

Use YourWeg to find programmes that match your profile and keep deadlines in one place.