If you want to study in Germany in the autumn intake, it helps to start early and work backwards from the deadline. Most students need time for research, language tests, documents, and the visa step after admission.
Exact dates change by university and programme. Always check the university admissions page, the programme page, and the official German immigration and visa guidance for your country.
12 to 10 months before start: research and shortlist
Start by finding programmes that match your subject, degree level, and language level. In Germany, some programmes are taught in English, some in German, and some in both.
- Check entry requirements on each programme page.
- Look at the language of instruction.
- See whether the course is open to international students.
- Make a list of 5 to 10 programmes.
At this stage, you do not need to apply yet. Your goal is to understand what each university asks for and whether your grades and language level fit.
10 to 8 months before start: prepare language tests and documents
If your programme needs English, book your test early. If it needs German, you may need a German test instead, such as TestDaF, DSH, telc, Goethe, IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted exam, depending on the university.
Typical documents include:
- Passport
- School or university transcripts
- Diploma or proof of current studies
- CV
- Motivation letter, if required
- Language test result
- Copies or certified translations, if asked for
Some universities ask for certified documents or a recognition check. Read the admissions page carefully so you know what format they want.
8 to 6 months before start: applications open for many programmes
Many German universities open applications several months before the semester starts. For an autumn intake, this often means late winter or spring, but the exact opening date is different for each university and programme.
At this point, you should:
- Create application accounts on university portals.
- Upload your documents.
- Check whether the programme uses Uni-Assist or a direct university application.
- Apply to more than one programme if possible.
If your programme has restricted admission or limited places, apply as soon as you are ready. Waiting too long can be risky, because some programmes close early.
6 to 4 months before start: submit applications
This is the main application window for many autumn programmes. Deadlines vary a lot, but many courses close in late spring or mid-summer. Some close earlier, especially for master's programmes, selective subjects, or non-EU applicants.
Before you submit, check:
- Whether all documents are uploaded
- Whether translations are accepted
- Whether you must pay an application fee
- Whether you need to send paper copies as well as digital files
Do not wait for the last day unless you must. Portals can be busy, and missing documents can make your application incomplete.
4 to 2 months before start: decisions and next steps
After you apply, universities may take a few weeks or longer to decide. The timing depends on the programme, the number of applicants, and whether the university needs more documents from you.
If you get an offer, read it carefully. You may need to:
- Accept the place by a deadline
- Pay a semester fee or deposit, if required
- Send original documents by post
- Arrange health insurance
- Prepare for enrolment
If you are waitlisted or asked for more documents, reply quickly and keep checking your email.
2 months before start to arrival: start your visa and travel steps
If you need a student visa or residence permit, start as soon as you have your admission letter, or even earlier if your local German mission allows a visa appointment with a conditional offer. Visa waiting times can be long, so do not leave this late.
Check the official website of the German embassy, consulate, or visa centre in your country for the required documents. You may need:
- Admission letter
- Proof of funds
- Passport
- Health insurance proof
- Photos and visa forms
- Proof of accommodation, if requested
Also plan for arrival tasks like housing, enrolment, and local registration after you reach Germany.
Simple month-by-month timeline
- 12 to 10 months before - research programmes
- 10 to 8 months before - take language tests and gather documents
- 8 to 6 months before - open application portals and prepare files
- 6 to 4 months before - submit applications
- 4 to 2 months before - wait for decisions and accept offers
- 2 months before to arrival - start the visa and travel process
This timeline is a general guide. Some universities move faster, and some have earlier deadlines. Master’s programmes, foundation routes, and competitive subjects can all have different schedules.
Common questions
When should I start if I want to study in Germany this autumn?
Start about 10 to 12 months before classes begin if you can. That gives you time for programme research, tests, and documents.
Do all German universities use the same deadline?
No. Deadlines differ by university, programme, and degree level. Always check the programme page and admissions page for the exact date.
Can I start my visa before I get an offer?
Usually you need an admission letter, but visa rules differ by country and case. Check the official German embassy or consulate website where you apply.
How Eduuro helps
Create a free profile with your field, education, English level, and documents, so universities can see your details in one place. Admissions offices that search for exactly that can find you and write first.
Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.