What is an APS certificate, and why is it necessary for studying in Germany?

An APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) certificate is required for applicants from certain countries to verify the equivalence of their academic qualifications. It ensures that your previous education meets the standards set by German universities, making it an essential step in the application process for a master's degree in Germany.

What are the essential documents needed for applying to a master's program in Germany?

Essential documents typically include recognized education qualifications, certified transcripts, translated grades, language proficiency proof, completed forms, passport copies, photos, European CVs, recommendation letters, statement of purpose, and, if applicable, APS certificates. These documents are crucial for universities to evaluate applicants properly.

How do I demonstrate language proficiency for German-taught programs?

For German-taught programs, you need to demonstrate proficiency in the German language through tests like TestDaF or DSH. These tests assess your ability to understand and communicate effectively in German, which is essential for success in a German-speaking academic environment.

What options are available for funding my master's degree in Germany?

There are various options for funding your master's degree, including scholarships, grants, financial aid, part-time work opportunities, and education loans. Organizations like the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) provide scholarships specifically for international students. Researching and applying for these opportunities can help alleviate financial concerns.

Is health insurance mandatory for international students in Germany?

Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany. You can opt for either public or private health insurance, depending on your preferences and needs. It's essential to have adequate coverage before your departure to Germany to ensure access to healthcare services during your stay.

What is a blocked bank account, and why do I need one for a German student visa?

A blocked bank account (Sperrkonto) is a special type of bank account where funds are blocked until you arrive in Germany. It serves as proof of financial means, as international students are required to show they have sufficient funds to cover living expenses while studying in Germany. The required amount for the blocked account is 11,208 Euros.

How long does it take for universities to process applications and provide admission decisions?

The time taken by universities to process applications and provide admission decisions can vary. It may range from several weeks to a few months. It's essential to be patient and monitor your email for updates regarding your application status.

Your Guide to Masters Applications in Germany

Your Guide to Masters Applications in Germany Planning to Pursue Masters or MS in Germany? Follow Our Step-by-Step Guide for a Smooth Journey. Discover Admission, Visa, and Scholarships Insights. Getting a Master’s degree in Germany is an exciting idea for international students. Germany boasts renowned universities and a plethora of course options that can fuel your academic aspirations and career dreams. However, it is not that direct a path to qualify for further education in this great European country. They range from choosing the right course to be undertaken to getting the visa application right-no small detail as every step counts in your educational adventure. This handy guide will be your trusted companion as you take a simplified journey through all the procedures to guarantee you confident and easy steps in taking your master’s degree journey in Germany.

Follow the Steps for Masters Application in Germany:

Step 1. Apply for APS

An important first step on the road to a master’s in Germany is getting an APS certificate. The APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) certificate is compulsory for applicants to German universities, especially students from countries like China, Vietnam, and Mongolia. The fee to obtain the APS Certificate in India is Rs 18,000. This amount cannot be refunded and should be deposited in the bank account of APS India. The certificates shall be couriered by post. Only 5 copies are free, additional copies will attract a surcharge of Rs 500 per copy. You want to have all your documents accepted by the APS before you proceed with the process.

Step 2. Check Admission Requirements

You have to check the admission criteria of the program that you are about to apply in first before deciding to apply, all the master applications share the same basic requirements but the rest varies according to the courses you want to attend.

Normally, essential application documents must feature include: recognized education qualifications; certified transcripts; translated grades; proof of language proficiency; completed forms; copies of passport; photos; European CVs; recommendation letters; a statement of purpose; and APS certificates. These are what universities use to screen applicants.

Step 3. Research and Choose a Program

To begin your master’s journey, you first need to find some universities that offer the kind of program you want to study. Well, Germany has a lot of universities and courses—you’d say around 400 universities and more than 23,000 courses! So, you have numerous options. Just hunt for some good universities offering what you want to study. Think about teachers, the kind of research you can do, facilities, and if previous students have been successful.

Search courses

Also consider,

Top 10 Public Universities in Germany Top 9 Technical Universities in Germany Best German Universities for Masters

Step 4. Language Proficiency

These master courses are offered by Germany in multiple languages; however, most are in the German language. Other languages include, but are not limited to, English, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, and many more. If the program is in German, demonstrate your German language proficiency either with tests like TestDaF or DSH. For English programs, an English language proficiency test score will be required.

English Proficiency Tests

German Proficiency Tests

Step 5. Prepare Required Documents

Gather Necessary documents like transcripts, diplomas, CVs, letters of motivation, letters of recommendation, passport photos, photocopy of passport, and language test scores must be gathered. It is very important that your documents are updated, so it really reflects all the proper completions of your academic and professional life.

Create CV

Create SOP

Create LOR

Transcript

Step 6. Online Application

Apply directly through the universities’ online application portals. In some instances, you will apply to universities that implement the use of, for instance, the uni-assist portal where you may upload your documents and track on your application. Be very keen and submit all the required documents well within the application deadlines.

University Portal

Uni-Assist Portal

Step 7. Await Admission Decision

Waiting game starts once the applications are done. Universities might take several weeks to few months to evaluate the applications and provide the admission decisions. Be patient and look for updates on your email.

Step 8. Secure Funding

Also, search for scholarships, grants, and aid to finance your master’s degree in Germany. Learn about part-time work possibilities and join education loan schemes. The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships for international students. It minimizes the burden on your wallet as well as helps remove many financial troubles.

Apply for Scholarship

Apply for Education Loan

Step 9. Health Insurance

Health insurance is one of the mandatory insurances for all German students. You may choose either public or private health insurance according to your wishes and needs. Make sure you have sufficient cover before leaving.

Step 10. Blocked Bank Account

Open a blocked bank account (Sperrkonto) to demonstrate sufficient funds. Research banks offering this service, provide the required documents, (Blocked Account amount required to apply for a German visa is 11,208 Euros), and receive a confirmation for your visa application. Typically, the student has access to no more than 934 Euros per month from the blocked account.

Step 11. Visa Application

Once you’ve received an acceptance letter, apply for a student visa at the nearest German embassy or consulate. Required documentation includes proof of admission, financial means (such as the confirmation of your blocked bank account with the required amount of 11,208 Euros), and health insurance. Make sure to check the specific requirements of the embassy or consulate where you’ll be applying and arrange any additional documents accordingly. Also, book your visa appointment early to avoid any hitch in application.

Step 12. Accommodation

You may start finding accommodations quite early. Sometimes, the universities also provide accommodation facilities for students. If not, then you can look up the private apartments. In Germany, you can find a wide variety of accommodations, like student dorms, private flats, and so on. Consider factors such as cost of living in Germany, accommodation, meals, movement, and other lifestyles when thinking of Germany. Knowing beforehand the average rent that one would pay in the place of interest allows you to plan adequately for your stay. Shared accompaniment through shared houses or student halls of residence is usually cheaper than flat rental.

Step 13. Travel and Arrival

Once you’ve secured your visa, plan your journey to Germany. Upon arrival, make your settling-in process smoother by registering at the residents’ office. Open a bank account to manage finances efficiently. Take the time to explore and familiarize yourself with your new surroundings.

Step 14. Pre-Departure Checklist

Cross-check your documents, be it visa, admission letter, or permits required. Recheck your financial preps for the initial period. Pack all essential items, such as personal and academic documents, clothes that are capable of bringing Germany weather, and any specifications that your program may have.

Apply for APS

One of the initial steps in your journey towards an MS in Germany is applying for an APS certificate.

Check Admission Requirements

Before diving into the application process, it's crucial to thoroughly review the admission criteria for your desired program.

Research and Choose a Program

Research universities offering master's programs in your field and select the ones that match your interests and goals.

Search Courses

Language Proficiency

If the program is in German, demonstrate your German language proficiency through tests like TestDaF or DSH. For English programs, provide an English language proficiency test score.

English Proficiency Tests

German Proficiency Tests

Notarization of Documents for students to German universities

Prepare Required Documents

Gather necessary documents, including transcripts, diplomas, CV, letter of motivation, letters of recommendation, passport photos, passport photocopy, and language test scores.

Create CV

Create SOP

Create LOR

Transcript

Online Application

Apply directly through the universities' online application portals. Follow instructions closely and submit all required documents before the application deadline.

University Portal

Uni-Assist Portal

Await Admission Decision

After submitting your applications, the waiting game begins. Universities may take several weeks to a few months to evaluate applications and provide admission decisions. Be patient and keep an eye on your email for updates.

Scholarships in Germany: 10 things you need to know

Secure Funding

Explore scholarships, grants, and financial aid options. Consider part-time work opportunities to support your studies.

Apply for Scholarship

Apply for Education Loan

Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany. You can opt for public or private health insurance, depending on your preferences and needs. Ensure you have adequate coverage before your departure.

Apply for Health Insurance

Blocked Bank Account

Open a blocked bank account (Sperrkonto) to demonstrate sufficient funds. Research banks offering this service, provide required documents, transfer the required amount, and receive a confirmation for your visa application.

Open your Blocked Account

Visa Application

Once you've received an acceptance letter, apply for a student visa at the nearest German embassy or consulate. Required documentation includes proof of admission, financial means, and health insurance.

Accommodation

Start searching for housing early. Universities may offer student housing, or you can explore private options.

Travel and Arrival

Arrange your travel to Germany. Upon arrival, register at the local residents' office, open a bank account, and settle in.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Double-check your documents, review your financial preparations, and pack all essential items for a comfortable stay in Germany.

Note: The process may vary depending on the requirements of each university and program. Thus, start following these well-structured steps towards pursuing a master’s degree from Germany.

Tool Box

International students applying to Masters courses in Germany often have to go through a maze of academic requirements. Some such important tools that could be really helpful to guide through some of these are briefly described below. Here are three must-use tools specifically designed for Masters applicants.

German Grade Calculator

ECTS Credit Calculator

IELTS-TOEFL Calculator

1. German Grade Calculator

German Grade Converter is a must for any international students who would wish to convert their grades from their local country grading system to the German grading scale. The general German grading scale ranges between 1.0 and 5.0. The highest grade is represented by 1.0, while 5.0 represents the lowest. From this, applicants can easily check their grades using the converter to know how much they stand at the German scale, giving one clarity and upholding all the requirements of admission.

2. IELTS and TOEFL Converter

English proficiency is one of the most common requirements for admission into Masters studies in Germany. The IELTS and TOEFL Converter makes it possible to compare scores achieved in the two currently most recognized English language proficiency tests. An applicant who sat for either IELTS or TOEFL will thus be able to convert their scores into the equivalent scores for the other test. With this conversion, applicants can confidently present their knowledge of English language proficiency as German universities may require.

3. ECTS Credit Calculator

The European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System is an essential mechanism for evaluating academic accomplishments and for the transfer of credits from one institution to another, including institutions in Germany. The ECTS Credit Calculator assists applicants in calculating how courses completed in the applicant’s home country or elsewhere correspond to equivalent credits in ECTS. By filling in details about courses and grades, applicants can know whether the individual academic credits for a specific course accrue in their desired Master’s programs in Germany to ensure a smooth transition and qualify them for admission.

By utilizing the German Grade Calculator, the IELTS and TOEFL Converter, and the ECTS Credit Calculator, applicants can navigate the complexities of academic requirements with ease, facilitating a successful application process and eventual enrollment in prestigious German universities.