Study in Germany: Winter Intake in Germany for Indian Students
Many online sources suggest Germany the number one study-abroad destination in the world. The world-class education and the facilities in Germany undoubtedly make it the number one destination for international students. Among a large number of international students, many are Indian students. This year also, several Indian students are enrolled or are going to enroll in Germany.
Numerous Indian students in Munich are keen to enroll in the winter intake in German universities. Here, we will provide the relevant information about the winter intake in Germany.
Student Timeline for the Winter Intake in Germany
Indian students must follow the timeline for the winter intake in Germany. Here is the timeline to follow.
#1. Search for the University and Shortlisting
The ideal time to begin shortlisting universities in Germany is from 1st October to 31st October of the previous year. Many universities in Germany have gained widespread popularity in providing education to worldwide students. Popular examples include the University of Hamburg, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, and more.
At the time of shortlisting the universities, you must see which universities have your preferred course.
#2. Exams of English/German Language and APS
From 1st November to 1st December of the previous years, Indian students planning to study in Germany should register and take English proficiency tests. IELTS and TOEFL are the popular English proficiency test. If you take the test early, you will be able to retake the test for better performance if required.
For the German-taught programs, you need to register and appear for the TestDAF and DSH. It is also the correct time when you can apply for your APS Certification. It will speed up your application process.
#3. Beginning of Winter Intake for Germany
The winter intake in Germany starts after that. You need to create and give the final touches to your Statement of Purpose (SOP). Besides, you should get your application-related documents for applying to your public universities in Germany. Requests for Letters of Recommendation should also be sent out by candidates. Besides, they should also send a work experience certificate or anything else that can add weight to their application. The process of winter take in Germany begins on 1st December of the previous year. Indian students can apply directly to universities in overseas countries including Germany.
Furthermore, candidates also ought to explore the scholarship options that they can find from government, universities, and private organizations. Organizations like the German Exchange Service or DAAD should be checked out.
#4. Application Deadline in Germany’s Winter Intake
In public universities in Germany, the admission deadline ends around 15th July of the same year.
#5. Period of Acceptance Letter
The period of acceptance is from 15th February to 15th August of the same year. You may hear back from your universities and receive your admission letter. The candidates are required to book their seats by informing them about the university of their choice and paying the needed tuition fees before the deadline.
#6. Booking of Accommodation
Securing a place to stay is another important step you need to accomplish. You should do it immediately after receiving your letter. It is because accommodations are filled very quickly through online sources in the big German cities like Hamburg and Munich. So, if you book student accommodation Hamburg or Munich late, you may not find it as per your preference or budget. Besides, sometimes, your proof of residence in Germany may be asked by the visa office. So, it is better to book accommodation before starting the process of visa filing.
#7. Process of Visa Filing
After receiving the admit letter, candidates should immediately proceed to the next step. It is to apply for the Student Visa of Germany, which enables them to enter the country. For winter intake in Germany, the visa filing period remains from 1st May to 15th September of the same year.
#8. Winter Intake in Academic Session in Germany
October to March is the time of the academic session of the winter intake. It is advised to depart to Germany in advance to complete any pending formalities. Departing in advance will also help them in getting enough time to settle into the overseas country.
Application Documents
You need to prepare some application documents for the winter intake in Germany. Here is the list of those documents.
#1. Application Form
You need to complete the application form carefully.
#2. Transcripts and Certificates
Certified copies of your transcripts and certificates from your previous institute should be provided.
#3. Letter of Motivation (SOP)
A letter of motivation includes your personalized essay. You need to craft a compelling SOP. In SOP, the details of your academic background and career goals should be mentioned. You also require mentioning your source of motivation to enroll in the chosen program. You should also highlight the unique aspects of your profile, which make you a strong candidate.
#4. Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
In some programs, you may need to present LORs from professors or employers.
#5. Proof of Language Proficiency
Provide documents such as IELTS or TOEFL scores to demonstrate your proficiency in English or German, based on the specific requirements of the program.
Summing Up
The process of enrolling in winter intake in Germany starts with searching and shortlisting the universities. After going through language proficiency tests, submitting applications, and applying for visa, the time of the academic session comes. The process starts from 1st October to 31st October of the previous year. It ends with visa filing from 1st May to 15th September of the same year. In October month, the session starts.
Documents you need to submit are (1) Application Form (2) Transcripts and Certificates (3) Letter of Motivation (SOP) (4) Letters of Recommendation (LORs) and (5) Proof of Language Proficiency.
