The main mistake: uploading late. uni-assist checks for weeks — a deadline-day application without a finished check burns. Upload 6–8 weeks ahead.
Applying: uni-assist or Direct
Most universities take foreign certificates via uni-assist (~€75 first university, ~€30 each additional). Deadlines are hard: 15 July and 15 January.
✓ Verified: 15/08/2026
WHAT TO DO
COSTS
- €uni-assist ~€75 first application, ~€30 each additional
› Details and tips
👨🏻💻
Max recommends:
I kept a deadline table per university: dates vary and NC subjects close earlier than open ones. Three applications went out a week before deadline — all three processed without drama.
👩🏼💼
Lea recommends:
Request the uni-assist VPD early, even without a final university list: the document evaluation happens once and covers later applications.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How many applications make sense? ▾
The survival rule: 5–8 universities of varying selectivity. The uni-assist fee for extra applications is cheaper than a semester lost to a single rejection.
Does every application go through uni-assist? ▾
No: some universities accept directly or via their own portals. Check the specific university application page — uni-assist charges per application, direct applications are free.
My certificate gives no direct access — dream over? ▾
No: the path runs via a Studienkolleg — a preparatory year with a final exam. Check your certificate in anabin and with uni-assist.
Do I need German to apply? ▾
For German-taught programmes: a B2-C1 certificate (TestDaF, DSH) usually at enrolment, not application. English-taught programmes take IELTS/TOEFL.