How do I apply to a German university as an international student?

Applying to German universities as an international student involves several steps that differ from the UK or Australian systems:

Step 1: Research and find your programme
Use DAAD's database (daad.de) to search for English-language or German-language programmes in your field. German universities are generally free for public university programmes.

Step 2: Check your qualification recognition
Use the Anabin database (anabin.kmk.org) to check if your school-leaving or bachelor's certificate is directly recognised. If not, you may need to attend a Studienkolleg.

Step 3: Apply through uni-assist or directly
- uni-assist: A centralised assessment service used by many German universities for international applicants. Submit your documents here; they are forwarded to universities. Fee: approximately €75 for first university + €30 each additional.
- Direct application: Some universities have their own international application portal — check each university's website.

Step 4: Language proof
Submit proof of German (TestDaF, DSH, Goethe C1/C2) for German-language programmes, or IELTS/TOEFL for English programmes.

Step 5: Receive your Zulassungsbescheid
This is your unconditional admission letter — required for the student visa application.

Application deadlines (typical):
- Winter semester (October start): July 15 for most applications
- Summer semester (April start): January 15

Documents often needed:
- Certified copies of transcripts and certificates (often requiring an official translation into German)
- Letter of motivation
- CV
- Language test results
- Letters of recommendation (for some programmes)