Study in Germany: Timeline for Summer Intake 2021

In 2019 alone, Germany welcomed a total of 280,002 international students with 17,294 students from India. With a wide spectrum of choices, Germany is considered one of the most popular study destinations not only in Europe but also across the world. The QS World University ranking 2021 features 45 German universities, out of which make the top 250. 

The universities in Germany have two intakes: the Winter intake and the Summer intake. Although the majority of international students choose the Winter intake, a great number of students apply to universities for the Summer intake, a reason for which is usually attributed to smaller class size. Read on as this article takes you through a detailed timeline for the Summer 2021 intake in Germany. 

About Summer Intake to Study in Germany

Here are the basic highlights of the summer or April intake in Germany:

• The Summer Intake in Germany begins in March/ April and the application period runs from early December to 15th January. 

• Classes in the Summer intake are much smaller as compared to that of the Winter intake. This also means that there is comparatively less competition among applicants in the Summer intake.

• Summer intake in Germany comes with an added advantage of extremely pleasant weather conditions.

• Universities usually send out letters of acceptance in August/September or in February/March. Rejection letters might take a little longer. 

Step-by-Step Guide for the Summer Intake 2021 in Germany

Now that you have made up your mind that the summer intake is the right intake for you, here you can get an idea of the timeline and the steps that you need to follow while you are at it:

Step 1: Choose a Course and University- June 2020

The first step to studying in Germany is, in fact, the most crucial step, in deciding every other step that follows. As of 2020/21, according to the data sourced from the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), the country offers a total of 2,031 international programmes, out of which 1506 are delivered in English.  

Courses are offered at undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral levels in no less than 68 subjects. In addition, German institutions also boast of short and online courses in varied fields.  The same data also reveals that international students can select from more than 150 German cities to study in. 

While very limited undergraduate programmes in Germany are taught in English, few may be taught in both German and English. 

Step 2: Look Into the Eligibility Criteria and Take the Required Test(s)- July to Aug 2020 

In Germany, every university is autonomous, meaning each university would have a different set of admission requirements. However, the basic eligibility criteria are as follows:

• For Bachelor’s programmes, students from IB or Cambridge Board can apply directly whereas those from the state or CBSE will have to pass the qualification assessment examination called Feststellungsprüfung, which tests your proficiency in subjects that are important for your chosen degree programme. Those who have cleared the IIT JEE Advanced or completed a one-year Bachelor’s degree in India can apply for admission to Bachelor’s degree programmes in Germany.

• For Master’s programmes, you must hold a four-year Bachelor’s degree. Further, you would need to submit scores of tests like GMAT/GRE/IELTS/TOEFL. 

Step 3: Plan your Finances- Sep to Nov 2020

To study in Germany, you would have to submit proof that you would be able to manage around 9,000 Euros for every year. The living cost in the country may vary from one city to another. However, an average foreign student in Germany spends nearly 860 Euros every month for subsistence, including housing, food, health insurance, clothing, study material and leisure activities. Check out the average cost of living in Germany.

And as education in the country is subsidised, you would either have to pay a very low fee or no fee at all. You can, nevertheless, apply for scholarships offered by the country for study at all levels. 

Also Read: COVID-19 Impact: What Lies Ahead for Study Abroad Aspirants?

Step 4: Apply to Shortlisted Universities- Dec 2020 to Jan 15, 2021

You must make sure that you apply to your list of universities at least six weeks before the last date. Usually, applications for the Summer intake need to be made by January 15. Having said that, the deadlines may be different for each university or course. Here is the list of documents that you are generally asked to submit while applying to Germany universities along with an application fee:

• A certified copy of a high-school diploma or previous degrees and other academic certificates (if any)

• An overview of the course modules and grades (translated)

• A copy of passport 

• A passport photo

• Proof of language proficiency (a test certificate)

Also Read: THE World Subject Rankings 2021: Stanford, MIT, Harvard Among Top 10

Step 5: Obtain a Student Visa- Dec 2020 to Jan 2021

Here, merge the fourth and fifth step! With getting a German student visa being a critical step, getting to it faster will make the process smoother. The processing time for a German student visa is around 20-25 days. 

For Indian students, there are two visas: 

• Student Applicant Visa (Visum Zur Studienbewerbung) – for those who want to study in Germany, but still have not yet been accepted to a German university. 

• Student Visa (Visum Zu Studienzwecken) – for those who have already received the confirmation letter from the university. 

To apply for a German visa, you would have to submit documents such as a valid passport, two photos, invitation letter, proof of financial means, return ticket, proof of accommodation, travel itinerary, etc.

Step 6: Look for Accommodation and Enroll- Feb 2021

This is one of the most important things you need to know when moving to a different country. Handle your living situation way before you depart for Germany. The most student-oriented cities in the country include Heidelberg and Freiburg, which may be slightly more expensive than other cities. 

In German universities, you would need to re-register before starting every semester, which may involve additional charges. You must also enrol before you start your course with documents such as passport with visa or residence permit, passport photos, a duly filled registration form, proof of higher education entrance qualification,  the notice of admission, and more. Upon enrolling, you would receive a registration certificate which they may refer to as a provisional student ID. 

Step 7: Get Ready for Your Departure- March to April 2021

With everything in place, you are all set to plan your departure and book your flight tickets. Now is when you must also have a look at the student life in Germany, the employment scenario while studying/ post-graduation work opportunities, and other things that might be on your checklist. 

Top German Universities for Summer Intake 2021

Given below is a list of most sought after german universities for Summer intake 2021: 

• Arden University

• University of Law

• Kingston University

• Berlin School of Business and Innovation

• University of Applied Sciences, Europe

• Humboldt University of Berlin

• University of Hamburg

• Technical University of Berlin

• Hamburg University of Technology

• Braunschweig University of Technology

Still confused about applying to German universities for Summer 2021 intake? Please write to us at abroad@collegedekho.com or you can also call us at 785 9990 990 to get further assistance.