Winter Intakes in Germany in 2025- A Complete Checklist

Introduction to Winter Intake in Germany’s Colleges

What is Winter Intake?

In Germany, there are generally two major academic intakes:

• The Summer Intake: April to September (summer semester)
• The Winter Intake: October to March (winter semester)

The Winter Intake is the primary intake at most German universities, offering a wider range of courses, particularly for international students. Most programs, including Master’s and Bachelor’s courses, are available during the Winter Intake, which makes it a more popular choice.

Why Choose Germany as the preferred epicenter for higher studies?

Germany is in the global spotlight, becoming an increasingly popular study destination for international students! With more than 4L international students, it ranks in the top three countries for international students. In fact, Germany has overtaken Canada as one of the top study-abroad destinations for Indian Students. It has seen a steady increase in the number of international students over the years, reflecting its growing popularity as a study destination. Here are some reasons:

• World Class Education and Research– Germany’s higher education system is renowned for its emphasis on academic freedom, practical relevance, and strong research infrastructure. Public universities such as Technical University of Munich, Heidelberg University, and Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich are making waves and attracting international students across various study fields such as  Engineering, Technology, and Natural Sciences, whereas several private universities like SRH Hochschule Berlin, Hochschule Fresenius and ISM-International School of Management are also becoming equally popular amongst the Indian diaspora. Their academic excellence and pioneering research initiatives that blend theory with hands-on learning give you the practical skills that are the current demands of employers.
• Diverse Range of Study Programs– Germany’s curriculum emphasizes the practice-oriented and research-driven initiatives offering over 20,000 degree programmes across various fields, proving Germany’s commitment to providing diverse educational opportunities. Close to 10 universities cemented their place in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings. Private sector universities like IU even offer blended degrees in cutting-edge, evolving fields like Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, Data Science, Business Intelligence and more.
• Cost-Efficient Education: Private and Public Universities – One of the biggest advantages of German universities is affordability. Public universities are predominantly funded by the state, offering free higher education or low-cost education to both domestic and international students in Germany, whereas tuition fees usually fund private universities and may offer specialized programs or smaller class sizes. These institutions often have a more exclusive and personalized approach to education, providing students with a unique learning experience. Also, organizations like DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) offer a range of scholarships specifically for international students.
• Excellent Career Opportunities– The country is home to many multinational companies, renowned research institutions, and thriving start-up ecosystems, offering internships and job placements to students, giving them a head start in their chosen careers. Homegrown multinational giants like Siemens, BMW, Bosch and SAP offer numerous career prospects. 
• Post- Graduation Work Visa for International Students– This policy underlines Germany’s commitment to fostering global talent as upon completing their studies at a German university, students are granted the chance to apply for this student visa, which allows them an 18-month post-study visa to seek employment that aligns with their qualifications. 
• Vibrant Student Life and Affordable Living Costs – Berlin, with its eclectic mix of culture, innovation, and history, is a hub for students from across the globe, seeking both higher education and a vibrant and dynamic lifestyle, encouraging international students to feel at home, while exploring the myriad opportunities available to them. The country’s high-quality life characterized by efficient public transport, excellent healthcare, safe cities and a focus on sustainability creates an ideal setup for personal and professional growth. 
• Cutting-edge tech industry – Currently, the nation is at the forefront of technological innovation, specifically in areas like AI, cybersecurity, Information Technology and Data Science. The German government and private sector invest heavily in tech and research, fostering an environment where cutting-edge work is not just encouraged; it’s a norm. For eg, GISMA University of Applied Sciences has joined hands with the industry giant SAP for a one-week industrial immersion workshop, earning students a great opportunity to learn and explore. 
• Central Location in Europe– Being at the heart of the continent, Germany serves as a crossroads that easily connects to other major European cities and countries. This centrality facilitates an ease of travel that is unmatched, allowing students and professionals alike to attend international conferences, participate in cross-border projects, and foster collaborations with ease.
• Trends for Indian Students at German Universities – Indian students are the most significant international population in this country where 60% of them study engineering, 21% law, management and social studies, whereas 13% in mathematics and natural sciences, leaving 5% with the rest of the subjects. Engineering remains the top choice for Indian students and will continue to attract more students with its growing skills, knowledge and experience needed to excel in today’s competitive world. 

Top Universities for Winter Intakes in Germany

Germany being an education hub has a plethora of top-notch universities. So, choosing the best can be a complex process. To help you simplify the process, we have some of the Top Universities for Winter Intake in Germany’s Colleges.

Top German Universities	QS Ranking 2025
Technical University of Munich	28
Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München	59
Ruprecht-Karls-Universität Heidelberg	84
Freie Universität Berlin	97
RWTH Aachen University	99
KIT, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology	102
Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin	126
Technische Universität Berlin (TU Berlin)	147

Learn More: Top Public Universities in Germany

Popular Courses Available in the Winter Intakes in Germany

BACHELOR COURSES	MASTERS COURSES
Bachelors of Biochemistry	Bioinformatics
Educational Science	Culture and Media Management
Political Science	Finance, Accounting and Taxation
Aerospace	AI in Society
Chemical Engineering	Aerospace Engineering
Electronics and Data Engineering	Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering	Business Administration
BA Computational Linguistics	International Development
BA English and American Studies	Law
Archaeologies	Geophysics
Geodesy and Geoinformation	Optics and Photonics
Law	Information Systems Engineering and Management (ISEM)
Business Administration	MSc Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
Digital Management	MSc Biochemistry
Energy and Material Physics	MSc Economics and Finance
Applied Computer Science, B.Sc	Automotive Engineering
Biochemistry, B.Sc	Media Informatics
Culture and Society, BA	Transforming City Regions M.Sc.

*Many more subjects are available for the Winter Intake as per the applicant’s choice. *

 

 

Learn More: Top 5 Courses for International Students

Further Read: Top 9 Aerospace Engineering Universities in Germany

Advantages/ Disadvantages of Winter Intakes 

Germany has become an increasingly popular destination for higher education, attracting students from around the world. Known for its robust educational system, cutting-edge research opportunities, and cultural richness, Germany offers numerous benefits to students who choose to enroll in its universities, specifically the winter intake. Here are some of the compelling reasons to apply for Winter Intake in Germany’s colleges.

Advantages	Disadvantages
More program options	Weather – challenging for those unaccustomed to cold climates
Easier Transition and Integration	In public universities, the programmes are usually taught in German.
Access to Student Housing
Increased Internship Opportunities
Networking and Extracurricular Activities
Exposure to Renowned faculty and Research facilities
Financial Advantages
Language Learning Opportunities
Culture Immersion

Overview of Winter Intakes in Germany

The Winter Intake in Germany’s Colleges key dates : 

Key features	Winter Intake 2025
Application start time	Early Feb 2025
Application end time	Early May- Mid-June 2025
Acceptance letters	April/June 2025
Term dates	September-October 2025

 

*Dates may vary depending on the university and the program selected.*

Requirements for Winter Intakes

Below mentioned are the Eligibility Criteria and Documents required for Winter Intake in Germany’s Colleges.

The German language test for the admission to universities (DSH) must first be passed at minimum the level DSH-2 and must be proven at the time of enrolment.

If the degree program requires German language skills equivalent to a level DSH-2, the following examinations/certificates will be accepted:

• Deutsches Sprachdiplom der Kultusministerkonferenz (German Language Diploma of the Conference of German Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs), Level 2 
• Deutsche Sprachprüfung für den Hochschulzugang (German language test for admission to universities (DSH)), Level 2 
• Goethe-Zertifikat C2 
• Test Deutsch als Fremdsprache (Test German as a Foreign Language), TestDaF, if all test components were passed with minimum the result TDN 4 
• Diploma of the “Feststellungsprüfung” (assessment test to determine the eligibility of foreign applicants for studies at institutions of higher education in Germany) 
• Österreichisches Sprachdiplom ÖSD C2
• Gemischtsprachiges Internationales Baccaulaureate (GIB) at schools in foreign countries with German lessons
• telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule certificate 
• Language Certificate or proof of German in a foreign school-leaving certificate which – in accordance with bilateral agreements – is recognised as sufficient proof of language proficiency for admission to higher education (attached to the current valid framework of the Kultusministerkonferen (KMK))

International applicants do not need any of the above certificates if :

• Your native language is German (e.g., you come from German-speaking Switzerland) (please upload your identity card/passport as proof in the application portal instead of the required language certificate).
• You have already obtained a German-language university degree at a German university (please upload your degree certificate as proof in the application portal instead of the required language certificate).
• You would like to enroll for a short-term study program or a transitional research stay and do not need any German language skills for this, according to your confirmation of supervision (please upload your confirmation of supervision as proof in the application portal instead of the required language certificate).

PROGRAM	GERMAN LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
BACHELORS PROGRAM	C1 level of German proficiency or DSH II to pursue a program taught in German
MASTERS PROGRAM	Require a level of proficiency ranging from DSH I to DSH II.
PhD	There are no universal German language requirements for doctoral degree studies in Germany. Universities in Germany determine language requirements for doctoral programs based on their own admission regulations.

Language Proficiency Tests: In Germany, you will find programs taught in German, but also in English. So, depending on the language of instruction of your chosen program, proving your proficiency will be essential for admission.

Accepted Certificates for English Language Skills for Winter Intake in Germany’s Colleges are: 

• Completion of at least 5 (B1) or 6 (B2) years of schooling in an English-speaking school.
• IELTS – B1 Level (4.5) or B2 Level (5.0) 
• Cambridge English Certificates (from B1 Preliminary, B2 First, C1 Advanced, to C2 Proficiency).
• TOEFL scores – paper-based test 450 – 500 (B1 and B2 levels); computer-based test 130 – 70 (B1 and B2 levels); internet-based test  60-80 (B1 and B2 levels).
• UNIcert® minimum level I (B1) or II (B2).
• TOEIC certificate.
• University qualifications or degrees obtained in an English-speaking country.

Germany Student Visa Requirements

• Visa Application Documents– Completed form, valid passport, and recent photos.
• Proof of Financial Resources– €11,904 (approx. 10L INR)  in a blocked account (Sperrkonto) or other financial proof.
• Proof of Purpose– University admission confirmation.
• Previous Academic Qualifications– School-leaving certificate or (if applicable) university degree.
• Health Insurance– Required for the visa and enrollment.
• Proof of Language Proficiency– German or English (B2 level).
• Visa Processing Fee– €75 (approx. 7000 INR) for adults, reduced fee for minors.

Simplifying the Application Process for Winter Intake

Here are the main steps to apply for Winter Intake in Germany’s Colleges for a Bachelor’s/Master’s degree :

1. Research and Choose a Bachelor’s/Master’s Program.
2. Check Admission Requirements.
3. Learn the German Language.
4. Gather documents and meet all requirements.
5. Secure Funding.
6. Submit Your Application.
7. Wait for the Admission Letter.
8. Obtain Health Insurance.
9. Apply for the German Student Visa.
10. Attend Orientation and Start Studies.

Steps to apply for a PhD : 

1. Find a PhD Program and a Supervisor.
2. Decide Between Individual and Structured PhD Programs.
3. Meet All Requirements & Prepare Your Application.
4. Apply for Doctoral Studies.
5. Secure Funding.
6. Get a Student Visa or Resident Permit.
7. Arrive in Germany and Begin Your PhD Program.

Difference between Summer and Winter Intakes

PARTICULARS	SUMMER INTAKE	WINTER INTAKE
Start – End Dates	April – July to August	September to October – February to March
Deadline	Mid-January	Mid-July
Intake Value	Secondary Intake	Primary Intake
Programs Offered	Fewer than Winter Intake	Almost all the programs are offered
Applications	Fewer applications with less competition	Most applications with higher competition
Scholarship Availability	Fewer scholarships	Most are provided
Session Commencement	April – May	September – October

Scholarships To Consider while Applying for Winter Intake

Germany is completely affordable in terms of both living costs and education costs. Higher education at most public universities is nearly free. But, of course, if you’re studying abroad, there are so many other things to account for besides tuition fees. Which is probably what brings you to our scholarship guide.

Luckily, there are plenty of scholarships in Germany.

 

Government and Organisation – Funded Scholarships	Scholarships offered by German Universities
Expatrio Scholarship	Humboldt Research Fellowship
DAAD Scholarship Programs	TUM Linde / MDSI Master Scholarship
Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarships	Heidelberg University HAUS Scholarships
DeutschlandStipendium National Scholarship Program	University of Hamburg Merit Scholarship
Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung Scholarship	Berlin International University of Applied Sciences Christian Wulff Scholarship
Erasmus+ Scholarship Program
Friedrich Ebert Foundation Scholarships
Marie-Sklodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) Postdoctoral Scholarships
StipendiumPlus
Bayer Foundation Fellowships

Many more Scholarships are offered like Federal German State-Specific Scholarships, MBA Scholarships for International students etc. Don’t let your dreams take a back seat instead get into the driver seat and drive to your dream destination – Germany.

Discover: About Student Loans in Germany

Summary

Germany is the gateway to a world-class higher education. Having enough motivation and working hard towards your goal, is all it takes. And if you feel confused about where to start, we’ve put together the full guide for Winter Intake in Germany’s Colleges. A step-wise guide, major dates, scholarships, list of programs etc. everything you need to know is available above. Choose wisely as Winter is Coming!

FAQs

Ques 1. When should I apply for Winter Intake in Germany?

Answer 1. The application process will begin shortly, around mid-February. Start planning for your study abroad and scroll above to see more details.

Ques 2. Which Intake is best for Germany?

Answer 2. Winter Intake is the primary intake as it offers more courses and scholarships as compared to the Summer Intake.

Ques 3. Is IELTS required in Germany?

Answer 3. Yes, IELTS, the English Language Proficiency test for Germany, is required to apply for the student-visa.