Table of Contents
- Winter Intake in Germany’s Colleges
- Why Choose Germany as the Preferred Epicenter for Higher Studies?
- Top Universities for Winter Intakes in Germany
- Top Courses for Winter Intake in Germany
- Advantages and Disadvantages of Winter Intakes
- Winter Intakes in Germany
- Requirements for Winter Intake in Germany
- Application Process for Winter Intake
- Difference between Summer and Winter Intakes
- Scholarships To Consider while Applying for Winter Intake
- Summary
- FAQs
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.
Also Read: Student life in Germany | Highest paying part-time jobs and more
| Want to Study Abroad: Check These Countries | |
| Study in UK | Study in USA |
| Study in Netherlands | Study in New Zealand |
| Study in Canada | Study in Ireland |
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
Top Courses for Winter Intake 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 and 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 of Winter Intakes | Disadvantages of Winter Intakes |
| 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 | – |
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 Intake in Germany
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).
| Programs | 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.
Also Read: Requirements for German study visa
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 :
- Research and Choose a Bachelor’s/Master’s Program.
- Check Admission Requirements.
- Learn the German Language.
- Gather documents and meet all requirements.
- Secure Funding.
- Submit Your Application.
- Wait for the Admission Letter.
- Obtain Health Insurance.
- Apply for the German Student Visa
- Attend Orientation and Start Studies.
Steps to apply for a PhD:
- Find a PhD Program and a Supervisor.
- Decide Between Individual and Structured PhD Programs.
- Meet All Requirements & Prepare Your Application.
- Apply for Doctoral Studies.
- Secure Funding.
- Get a Student Visa or Resident Permit.
- Arrive in Germany and Begin Your PhD Program.
Also Read: Germany Work Permit Visa for Indian Citizens
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.
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