Step-by-Step: How to Apply to German Universities from India

📍 Step 1: Choose the Right Program & University

Start by researching:

• Your desired subject (Engineering, IT, Business, etc.)

• Language of instruction (English or German)

• Type of degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD)

• Public (tuition-free) vs Private (fee-based) universities

➡️ Use trusted platforms like DAAD.de or work with GCQ counselors to shortlist universities that match your profile.

📍 Step 2: Check Eligibility & Admission Requirements

🎓 For Bachelor’s Degree:

• Class 12 with CBSE/ICSE/state board

• May require Studienkolleg or 1-year foundation if your marks don’t meet the direct entry criteria

• IELTS (6.0+) or TOEFL (80+)

🎓 For Master’s Degree:

• Recognized 3- or 4-year Bachelor’s degree

• Minimum 65–75% depending on course

• IELTS (6.5–7.0) or TOEFL (85–95)

• GRE (optional, required by some tech programs)

• SOP, LORs, and Resume

💡 GCQ offers free profile evaluation to check your eligibility for public or private universities.

📍 Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Here’s what Indian students need for most applications:

📌 Some universities may require notarized copies or APS (Academic Evaluation Centre) certification — especially since **APS is now mandatory for Indian applicants (as of 2022).

📍 Step 4: Apply via University Portal or Uni-Assist

There are two application routes:

🔹 Direct University Portal:

• Many public/private universities allow direct online applications

🔹 Uni-Assist Platform:

• Used by 180+ public universities

• Verifies your documents before forwarding to universities

• Website: https://www.uni-assist.de

• Application fee: €75 for the first university, €30 per additional university

GCQ handles your Uni-Assist and direct applications end-to-end to avoid mistakes.

📍 Step 5: Apply for APS Certificate (Mandatory for Indian Students)

As per the new rules, Indian applicants must obtain an APS certificate before applying for a student visa.

• Cost: ₹18,000

• Processing time: 3–4 weeks

• Website: https://aps-india.de

• Required before university application or visa filing

✅ GCQ assists with APS application, document verification, and interview prep.

📍 Step 6: Wait for Admission Decision

• Public universities: 4–10 weeks

• Private universities: 2–6 weeks

• You may receive a conditional offer if language or final results are pending

Once accepted, you’ll get an admission letter required for your student visa.

📍 Step 7: Apply for German Student Visa

Once admitted:

1. Open a Blocked Account (€11,208)

2. Get Health Insurance

3. Prepare visa documents (SOP, financial proof, etc.)

4. Apply via German Embassy/VFS

🎯 GCQ’s visa team helps you avoid rejections with a 99% visa approval success rate.