Intakes in Germany 2025–2026: Complete Guide for Indian Students

Germany is one of the most popular destinations among Indian students planning to pursue their higher education abroad. The country is well-known for its world-class universities, strong emphasis on practical learning, and cutting-edge research facilities.

If you, too, are planning to pursue your higher education in Germany, it is crucial that you learn about the different intakes in Germany, key deadlines, how to apply, etc., so you can plan your application properly.

Key highlights:

• Overview of Intakes in Germany for Indian Students
• Winter Intake in Germany
  • Overview
  • Why Choose the Winter Intake?
• Summer Intake in Germany
  • Overview
  • Why Choose the Summer Intake?
• Key Deadlines for 2025–2026 Intakes
• Eligibility Criteria for Different Intakes in Germany
• How to Apply for Intakes in Germany
• Visa Application Timeline for Intakes in Germany
• Accommodation and Living Costs in Germany
  • Accommodation Costs
  • Cost of Living
• Post-Arrival Steps for Students

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Overview of Intakes in Germany for Indian Students

The academic year in Germany is divided into two major intakes – winter and summer. Each German intake has different timelines, courses, and advantages to offer and choosing the right intake is one of the most important steps for students planning to study in Germany. The winter semester in Germany usually lasts from October to March, and the summer semester usually lasts from April to September. While most German universities follow this schedule, depending on the specific programme and institution you want to attend, you may come across certain variations. It is always a good idea to confirm the available intakes at specific universities for the course you plan to pursue.

Winter Intake in Germany

Overview

In Germany, the winter intake opens admissions for the semester that starts around September-October and lasts up until February-March. This is the most popular intake in Germany and sees the maximum footfall in terms of international student applications. The winter intake is the primary admissions cycle, during which most German universities accept applications to most of their courses.

Why Choose the Winter Intake?

• All top universities in Germany are accepting applications during this time.
• You have more choices in terms of courses and programmes to pursue.
• As this is the most popular admissions cycle, there are more student applications, which means that you can expect a diverse student body and a vibrant cultural experience.
• Structured as a well-organised academic year, the winter intake aligns well with the start of the academic year in India.
• The winter intake is known for higher acceptance rates and bigger class sizes.

Summer Intake in Germany

Overview

The summer intake in Germany opens admissions for the semester that starts around the month of April and lasts till July-August. The timeline for the summer intake usually starts in early December and ends around mid-January, offering students who may have missed the winter intake deadlines another opportunity to get admission to a German university. Summer is also the preferred German intake for certain master’s programmes, specialised courses, and doctoral research.

Why Choose the Summer Intake?

• You have the liberty to start your education in the summers, free from the traditional boundaries of an academic year.
• Summers are the ideal German intakes for master’s, and although the number of programmes available is limited, you will still have access to rigorous and updated undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across domains like business and engineering.
• You will have more opportunities for part-time jobs, internships, volunteer work, and hackathons to gain practical experience.
• A lesser number of applications means lesser competition and higher chances of admission.
• The summer intake is the perfect choice for students who may have missed the deadlines for the winter intake.

Key Deadlines for 2025–2026 Intakes

Eligibility Criteria for Different Intakes in Germany

1. Minimum Education Requirements

• Completed 10 + 2 from a recognised board for a bachelor’s programme.
• A relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognised university for a master’s programme.

2. Proof of English Language Proficiency

• Scores from an approved exam, like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL.
• Minimum score requirements vary with different universities.

3. Standardised Tests

• Scores from relevant standardised tests, like the Test for Academic Studies (TestAS), Graduate Record Examination (GRE), Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT), and the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).
• Requirements for standardised tests vary with different courses and universities.

4. Documentation

• Valid passport
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• Language proficiency and standardised test results
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV/Resume)
• Proof of finances

How to Apply for Intakes in Germany

• Step 1: Research: Research different universities and programmes in Germany that suit your qualifications and interests and shortlist the best options.
• Step 2: Deadlines: Check application deadlines by visiting official university websites.
• Step 3: Eligibility and Tests: Confirm your eligibility and begin planning to take the required language proficiency and standardised tests.
• Step 4: Apply: Submit your application to the university, upload all required documents, and pay the application fees.
• Step 5: Acceptance: Respond promptly once you receive your acceptance letter. Some universities may also conduct interviews for further assessment, which you must prepare for.
• Step 6: Visa: Once you have received an acceptance letter from your preferred university, you can apply for a German student visa.

Accommodation and Living Costs in Germany

Accommodation Costs

On average, student accommodation costs range from EUR 250 to EUR 350 per month. However, availability is highly competitive, especially during the winter intake, which is why it is crucial that you start looking for accommodation as soon as you get your acceptance letter.

Cost of Living in Germany

Also Read: Top 10 Benefits of Studying in Germany in 2025

Post-Arrival Steps for Students

• Register: Report to the local residents’ registration office within two weeks of arrival with your passport (with visa) and a confirmation from your landlord or your lease to receive your Registration Certificate. The Einwohnermeldeamt, or the resident’s registration office, is the place where you go to register, re-register, and de-register when you arrive in Germany, move house within the country, or are leaving Germany.
• Residence Permit: Visit the local foreigners’ registration office for your residence permit.
• Enrol: Enrol at your university before the deadline. You can check with your university’s International Office for a list of documents that you will need.
• Bank Account: Open a bank account in Germany. You will need it to make payments for rent, utilities, and other necessities.

The winter and summer intakes in Germany both offer several advantages. To make the right decision, you should consider factors like programme availability, your own readiness, visa and travel considerations, and your personal preferences.

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