Free education in Germany

A Comprehensive Guide for Indian Students Applying for Master’s Degrees in Germany

Germany has long been one of the most popular destinations for Indian students seeking higher education, especially in public universities offering low or even free tuition. If you’re an Indian student aspiring to pursue a Master’s degree in Germany, there are several essential aspects to consider. From the number of Indian students studying in Germany to the specifics of the APS process, here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate the journey.

1. How Many Indian Students Go to Germany for Master’s Programs?

As of the 2023–2024 academic year, over 42,000 Indian students were enrolled in German universities, making India the largest group of international students in Germany. Among them:

• 80–85% of Indian students are enrolled in Master’s programs.
• This means around 34,000 to 36,000 Indian students are pursuing Master’s degrees in Germany.
• A majority of these students study at public universities because of low or free tuition fees and the availability of English-taught Master’s programs.

2. What Percentage of Marks Are Required for Indian Bachelor’s Holders to Get Selected in German Public Universities?

The percentage of marks required for Indian students to be admitted to German public universities depends on various factors like the university, program, and overall competition. Here’s a breakdown:

Minimum Percentage Required for Admission

University Type	Typical Minimum % Required	Notes
Top-tier (e.g., TUM, RWTH, Heidelberg)	75–80% and above (CGPA 8.0/10)	Competitive programs (CS, Data Science, etc.) may require higher marks
Mid-tier public universities	70–75% (CGPA 7.0–7.5/10)	Strong SOP and LORs may help improve chances
Applied Sciences universities (Hochschulen/FH)	65–70% (CGPA 6.5–7.0/10)	Emphasis on practical experience and relevant internships/projects

Other Factors That Can Offset a Lower Percentage:

• Relevant work experience or internships
• Strong Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• Good Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• IELTS/TOEFL scores
• Projects, research papers, or certifications

3. What Are the Requirements for Indian Students to Pursue a Master’s Degree in Germany?

If you’re applying for a Master’s degree in Germany, particularly at public universities, here’s what you need to know:

Academic Requirements:

1. Recognized Bachelor’s Degree:
   • The degree must be recognized as equivalent to a German bachelor’s degree.
   • A 4-year Bachelor’s degree (e.g., B.E. or B.Tech) is generally accepted.
   • 3-year degrees (like B.Sc. or B.Com.) might require additional qualifications or a preparatory program.
2. Minimum GPA:
   • Most universities expect at least 70% or CGPA 7.0/10 or equivalent, though highly competitive programs may need higher scores.
3. Relevant Field of Study:
   • The Master’s program should ideally align with your bachelor’s field of study, although some flexibility may be offered depending on the university.

Language Requirements:

For English-taught programs:

• IELTS: Typically, 6.5 or above.
• TOEFL: Usually, 90+ iBT.
• Some universities may waive the English test if you provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate confirming your previous education was in English.

For German-taught programs:

• German proficiency at B2 or C1 level is required (TestDaF, DSH, or Goethe-Zertifikat accepted).

Tuition & Fees:

• Public universities in Germany charge very low or no tuition fees:
  • Most charge a semester contribution (€150–€350), which covers administrative costs and public transport.
  • Some Master’s programs may have tuition fees, especially in applied sciences or executive courses.

Application Requirements:

1. Certified copies of academic documents.
2. Transcripts & degree certificate.
3. Language proficiency test scores.
4. CV/Resume (often in Europass format).
5. Letter of Motivation.
6. Letters of Recommendation (typically 2).
7. Passport copy.
8. Statement of Purpose (SOP).

Student Visa Requirements:

• Admission Letter from a German university.
• Proof of financial resources: Typically, a blocked account with around €11,208/year (as of 2025).
• Health insurance.
• Other academic and language documents.

Application Platforms:

• Uni-Assist: Some universities use this platform for document verification.
• Direct Applications: Some universities accept direct applications.

4. Which Public Universities in Germany Waive the English Test Requirement?

Several universities in Germany may waive the IELTS requirement for Indian students if they meet certain conditions, like providing a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate. Some universities known for this practice include:

University	Notes
Free University of Berlin	Accepts MOI; offers various English-taught programs.
University of Siegen	Accepts MOI for several programs.
University of Koblenz-Landau	May accept MOI; offers English-taught master’s programs.
University of Bonn	Accepts MOI; provides multiple English-taught programs.
University of Kaiserslautern	Accepts students with prior English-medium education.
University of Freiburg	Provides options to demonstrate English proficiency without IELTS.
University of Hamburg	Offers alternative options for assessing English proficiency.
RWTH Aachen University	Offers flexibility in English language requirements.

5. What Is the APS (Academic Evaluation Centre) Process?

The APS Certificate is a mandatory academic verification for students from countries like India, Vietnam, China, and Mongolia who wish to study in Germany. It verifies the authenticity of your academic documents and confirms whether you’re eligible for higher education in Germany.

Who Needs the APS?

Indian students applying for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Germany typically need to go through the APS process. However, PhD applicants and exchange program students are generally exempt.

Cost & Time of APS:

• Fee: ₹18,000 (non-refundable)
• Processing Time: 3 to 6 weeks after document submission and payment.

Documents Required for APS:

1. APS online application form.
2. Passport copy.
3. Class 10^th and 12^th mark sheets and certificates.
4. Bachelor’s transcripts and degree certificate.
5. Medium of Instruction (MOI) letter (if applicable).
6. IELTS/TOEFL scores (if available).
7. Payment proof.

Where to Apply: Apply through the official portal: APS India

6. Who Is Exempt from the APS Certificate?

Indian students who fall into the following categories are exempt from obtaining the APS certificate:

1. DAAD Scholarship Holders – Students awarded a DAAD scholarship don’t need an APS certificate.
2. Students with a German or EU University Degree – If you already have a degree from a German or EU/EEA institution, you are exempt.
3. PhD Applicants – Most PhD applicants do not require an APS certificate, but it’s always best to confirm with the university.
4. Exchange or Short-Term Program Students – Students applying for exchange programs or short-term non-degree programs typically do not need APS if the stay is less than 6 months.

7. Is APS Required for Pre-Master’s or Bridging Courses?

Yes, if you are applying for a preparatory course (like a Studienkolleg, German language course, or foundation program) in Germany before starting your Master’s degree, you still need to obtain the APS certificate for visa processing.

8. Major Intakes in German Public Universities for Master’s Education

Germany typically offers two main intakes at public universities for Master’s programs, including tuition-free or low-cost education.

Intake	Start Month	Most Common Programs	Application Deadlines
Winter Intake (Winter semester or WiSe)	October	Most Master’s programs (80-90% available)	Uni-Assist: April 15 – July 15 (varies by university) – Direct Applications: May – July
Summer Intake (Summer semester or SoSe)	April	Fewer programs, often technical or business-focused	Uni-Assist: October 15 – January 15 Direct Applications: Often close in January

Additional Notes for International Applicants:

• APS Certificate (mandatory for Indian students): 3–6 weeks processing time, so apply 6–9 months before intake.
• Consider time for language tests (IELTS/TOEFL), SOP, LORs, and visa processing (4–12 weeks).

9. Dependent Spouse and Child Visa Process for Germany

Dependent spouse and children cannot typically travel with the student to Germany. The student must arrive first, settle, and meet certain requirements before applying for a family reunion visa (Visum zur Familienzusammenführung).

Step	Process
1. Student Arrival	Travel to Germany on a national student visa. – Register address (Anmeldung).
2. Conditions for Dependents to Join	Secure suitable accommodation. – Proof of financial support. – Health insurance. – University enrollment confirmation.
3. Dependent Visa Application	Spouse and children can apply after student settles in Germany.

Documents for Dependent Visa:

• Marriage certificate and child’s birth certificate (translated).
• Proof of accommodation, financial support, and language skills (A1 level for spouse).

Processing Time: 2 to 4 months.

10. Public Universities Accepting 3-Year Indian Bachelor’s Degrees for Master’s Programs

Some universities accept a 3-year Bachelor’s degree from India, particularly for non-technical Master’s programs or if the university is recognized and the applicant has relevant experience.

University	Courses	Notes
University of Cologne	M.Sc. in Business Administration, M.Sc. in Economics	Accepts 3-year degrees from NAAC A-accredited universities.
University of Bonn	M.Sc. in Economics, Master of Public Health	Case-by-case evaluation; 3-year degrees accepted if university is accredited.
University of Göttingen	M.Sc. in Development Economics, MA in History	Accepts 3-year degrees for many social science programs.
University of Hamburg	M.A. in International Business and Sustainability, M.A. in Peace and Security Studies	Accepts 3-year degrees (180 ECTS).
University of Leipzig	M.Sc. in Global Studies, M.A. in Economics	Evaluates eligibility based on university status.

Tips to Strengthen Application:

• Choose programs requiring 180 ECTS.
• Work experience, strong SOP, and references are beneficial for 3-year degree holders.

11. Public Universities Requiring a 4-Year Indian Bachelor’s Degree for STEM Master’s Programs

These universities offer STEM Master’s programs and generally require a 4-year B.E./B.tech degree for eligibility.

University	Courses	Notes
Technical University of Munich (TUM)	M.Sc. in Computer Science, M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering, M.Sc. in Data Engineering	Requires a 4-year Bachelor’s degree (B.E./B.Tech).
RWTH Aachen University	M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering, M.Sc. in Automation Engineering M.Sc. in Software Systems Engineering	Requires a strong academic background and 4-year engineering degree.
Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT)	M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering, M.Sc. in Optics & Photonics	Requires a 4-year Bachelor’s with relevant coursework.
TU Berlin	M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering, M.Sc. in Computer Science	Requires 210 ECTS or equivalent 4-year degree.
University of Stuttgart	M.Sc. in Computational Mechanics, M.Sc. in Aerospace Engineering	Requires a 4-year engineering or relevant STEM degree.

12. Studying Bachelor’s Degree in Germany: Eligibility, Budget, and Gap Years

Here’s an overview for Indian students interested in pursuing a Bachelor’s in Germany after completing 12th grade:

Category	Details
Eligibility	70%–85% in 12th grade. – Studienkolleg (A foundation course to bridge the gap between Indian schooling and the German higher education system) required due to 12-year schooling system in India.
Language Requirements	German-taught programs: B1/B2 proficiency (TestDaF/DSH).English-taught programs: IELTS (6.0–6.5) or TOEFL equivalent.
Visa and Financial Proof	Visa: Student visa required. Proof of financial resources: Blocked account (~€11,208/year).
Budget	Tuition Fees: Usually free, except for special universities. Semester Fee: €250–€350/semester.Living Expenses: €700–€1,000/month (accommodation, food, health insurance).

Gap Year: Up to 1–2 years is accepted, with work experience or productive activities like internships, self-study, or voluntary work. More than 2 years requires an explanation.

13. Bachelor’s Degree Courses in Germany for Indian Students

Field	Courses	Top Universities
Engineering & Technology	B.Sc. Mechanical Engineering, B.Sc. Electrical Engineering	TU Munich, RWTH Aachen, TU Berlin
Business, Management & Economics	B.A. International Business, B.Sc. Business Administration	University of Mannheim, University of Cologne
Computer Science & IT	B.Sc. Computer Science, B.Sc. Data Science	LMU Munich, TU Darmstadt, University of Freiburg
Natural Sciences	B.Sc. Physics, B.Sc. Chemistry, B.Sc. Biology	University of Heidelberg, University of Göttingen
Social Sciences & Humanities	B.A. International Relations, B.A. Political Science	University of Leipzig, University of Bremen
Environmental Science	B.Sc. Environmental Engineering, B.Sc. Renewable Energy	TU Berlin, University of Freiburg

English-Taught Programs:

• B.Sc. International Business – Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences
• B.Sc. Data Science – Jacobs University Bremen (private)

14. Alternatives to Studienkolleg for Direct Entry to Bachelor’s Programs

University	Course	Studienkolleg Needed?	Notes
Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences	International Business Administration	❌ Sometimes	May allow direct entry if you have excellent 12th results (CBSE/ISC), or else after 1 year of Indian university
Rhine-Waal University of Applied Sciences	All English-taught Bachelors (e.g., Int’l Relations, Env. & Energy)	❌ in many cases	One of the few that often admits 12th-pass Indian students directly
Offenburg University of Applied Sciences	Electrical Engineering	✅ / ❌	Some B.Eng. programs require Studienkolleg; ask directly
University of Siegen	Computer Science (English track)	✅	Requires Studienkolleg for 12th pass unless 1 year of Indian university is completed
University of Leipzig	International Physics	✅	Studienkolleg required for Indian 12th-pass students
Leuphana University of Lüneburg	Management & Data Science	✅	Requires Studienkolleg after 12th
University of Duisburg-Essen	Molecular Biology	✅	Studienkolleg or 1 year of Indian university
University of Osnabrück	Cognitive Science	✅	Studienkolleg is needed after 12th
TU Munich / RWTH Aachen / KIT	All programs	✅	Top research universities always require Studienkolleg unless you’ve completed 1 year of Bachelor’s in India

How to Qualify Without Studienkolleg:

• Complete 1 year of Bachelor’s degree in India.
• Attend an international school (IB, A-Levels).
• Enroll in Studienkolleg for preparation.

Germany Student Visa Process (With or Without APS Certificate)

1. APS Certificate Requirement

• With APS: If you are applying from countries like India, China, and some others, you may need an APS certificate (Academic Evaluation Centre) to verify your academic qualifications before applying for a visa.
• Without APS: Students from other countries, or those applying to universities that do not require APS (e.g., non-German universities), can directly proceed with the visa application without APS approval.

2. Common Document Requirements (Both With and Without APS)

• Valid passport
• University admission letter or Visa letter
• Proof of financial means (Blocked Account, savings, FD, education loan, or sponsorship from blood relatives)
• Health insurance details
• 1st-year full tuition fees payment confirmation
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• IELTS/TOEFL Certificate (Note: Only IELTS or TOEFL tests are accepted. PTE and Duolingo are not recognized by the German Embassy)
• Additional Documents can be attached in the “Other Documents” section in the CSP portal.

3. Financial Proofs

• You need to show proof of sufficient financial resources:
  • Blocked Account: €11,904 (approx.) for one year of living expenses
  • Tuition Fees: The full first-year tuition fee must be paid, and the remaining tuition fees should be shown through valid financial sources such as FD, savings, education loan, or sponsorship by blood relatives.

4. Visa Application Process for Students with APS Certificate

• Step 1: APS Certificate (if applicable)
  • Register and submit documents for the APS certificate through www.aps-india.de.
  • The university helps with group registration. Students should email the university for the process.
  • Once APS certificate is received, proceed to the next step.
• Step 2: Online Application via the CSP Portal
  • Go to the Consular Service Portal (CSP): CSP Portal
  • Create an account and fill in the application forms (Entry Form + VIDEX Form).
  • Upload all required documents including APS certificate, passport, university admission letter, financial proof, health insurance, etc.
  • Pay the consular fee online (INR 898) and upload payment receipt if available.
  • Select YES for APS in the application form when prompted.
• Step 3: VFS Appointment
  • Once the application is submitted, schedule an appointment at the appropriate VFS centre for biometric data and submission of physical documents.
  • You must visit VFS for biometrics and pay the visa fees (EUR 75).

5. Visa Application Process for Students without APS Certificate

• Step 1: Online Application via the CSP Portal
  • Follow the same steps as mentioned for the APS application, but select NO for the APS requirement in the portal form if you are applying without it.
• Step 2: Embassy/Consulate Appointment
  • Once your documents are uploaded, book your visa appointment at the Embassy/Consulate based on your region.
  • Visit the Embassy/Consulate for biometrics and to submit the physical documents.
  • Pay the visa fees (EUR 75) during the appointment.

6. General Timeline

• Step 1: Portal Registration & Application Submission: 1-2 weeks
• Step 2: Appointment Scheduling: Appointments are available within a few weeks after submission.
• Step 3: Visa Decision: Typically, decisions are made within 4-8 weeks after the consular appointment.
• Tip: Apply early to allow for any unforeseen delays.

7. New Process (Effective from 17th January 2025)

• Online Application: As of January 2025, the visa application process will be fully online through the Consular Service Portal.
• Step-by-Step Process:
  1. Create an account on the Consular Portal.
  2. Complete VIDEX and Entry Forms.
  3. Upload all required documents.
  4. Pay the consular fee (INR 898).
  5. Schedule an appointment at VFS (with APS) or Embassy/Consulate (without APS).
  6. Visit VFS or Embassy for biometrics and visa fee payment.

8. Jurisdictions for Visa Application (India)

• Bangalore: Karnataka, Kerala
• Chennai: Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Puducherry
• Kolkata: Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and others in the North-East
• Mumbai: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Goa
• New Delhi: Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and other northern states.

Final Notes:

• Students should ensure they follow the guidelines for IELTS or TOEFL and avoid non-accepted tests like Duolingo or PTE.
• Always check your jurisdiction and make sure you apply at the correct VFS or Embassy/Consulate centre.
• The payment link for the consular fee may not appear for some students in the CSP portal; if it doesn’t, just proceed without it and upload the payment confirmation.

Conclusion

Studying in Germany is an excellent choice for Indian students seeking quality education at a reasonable cost. With no tuition fees at most public universities and a plethora of English-taught programs, it’s easy to see why Germany is becoming a favored study destination.

By following the application guidelines, preparing in advance for the language proficiency exams, and staying informed about deadlines, Indian students can successfully navigate the process of studying in Germany. Whether you’re pursuing a Bachelor’s, Master’s, or looking to bring your family along, Germany offers a range of opportunities for academic success.