List of Documents Required for Applying to German Universities

Published date: 18th October 2022

Studying in Germany is popular among students from all over the world. This is because of Germany's high-quality education system, an excellent degree of freedom and understanding from other foreign students, low living costs, and well-equipped accommodation facilities. However, for those international students who are interested in studying in Germany, there are some points that you should keep in mind before taking up a course at a German University or College.

If you are planning to apply to German universities, you probably have questions about what documents you must send documents with your application. Here is a list of documents you must consider as you prepare your application.

List of Documents Required for Applying to German Universities

Here are the details of the basic essential documents that are required when applying to German universities.

1. Passport

When you apply to a German university, you will need to provide a copy of your passport. If you do not have a passport, you will need to obtain one before applying to a German university. The passport should be valid for at least three years at the time of visa application. 

2. Marksheets and Certificates of Graduation

You must also provide copies of necessary mark sheets and pass certificates. For example, If you are planning for a master’s degree, you must submit your 10th and 12th-grade marks, all semester grades and passing certificates. At least one sets of copies are required for each application. Attestation is required for all copies.

3. Letters of Recommendation (LOR)

Letters of Recommendation are one of the most important documents required for admission for studying in German Universities. A letter of recommendation (LOR) must be provided by one of your professors or supervisors and should highlight your academic or professional abilities, accomplishments, and experience. You may require at least 2 letters of recommendation.

• Choose your referees carefully,  who knows you well and can speak to your strengths.
• Give your referees plenty of time to write the letter. A minimum of two weeks is ideal.
• Provide your referee with any relevant information that will help them write a strong letter, such as a copy of your personal statement or CV.

4. Statement of Purpose (SOP)

The statement of Purpose allows you to express why you wish to study at the university and what your aim is for the future. Admission Officers focus more on SOPs to learn about the student, their aspirations, and how they can contribute to the university.

To write a strong SOP, start by researching the programs at each university you are interested in. Find out what they are looking for in an ideal candidate, and make sure to address those qualities in your SOP. Next, draft a rough outline of your goals and experiences. Include any relevant coursework or research you have done, as well as any extracurricular activities or volunteer work that has helped you develop relevant skills. Finally, revise and edit your essay until it is clear, concise, and free of errors.

5. Scores on the German/English Proficiency Test

Proficiency in German or English is one of the essential requirements for Studying in Germany for international students from non-speaking English countries. Test scores of IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE can be used as proof of English language proficiency. Additionally, a German language certificate or any other accepted test that confirms your level of competency in the German language may be used. Moreover, knowing a bit of the German language beforehand helps you gelling up with the study environment. 

6. Scorecards for Entrance Exams

Your exam scorecard is an additional document needed when applying to German universities. To get admitted to a university in Germany, you are required to take specific entrance examinations. Before applying to a german University, check for the program you are applying for and have your score ready.

7. Curriculum Vitae or Resume

It should have information about your goal, education, internships, work experience milestone scores, projects completed during your undergraduate program (and during your internships/full-time job), and co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.

8. Proof of Financial Resources

You will be asked to submit ‘Proof of Financial Resources to obtain a Germany Student visa. It is an essential document required for applying to German universities. It is just a document that details how you wish to cover the cost of education in Germany. You can do this through several means: a university sponsorship letter, loan documents, etc.

The specific documents required vary depending on the university and program you are applying to, so be sure to check with the school for their specific requirements. However, most German universities will require some or all of the abovementioned documents.

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