Winter intake in Germany 2025 for Indian Students

Planning to study in Germany? Germany, one of Europe's top destinations, welcomes more Indian students like you! However, you should note that universities in Germany accept students in two intakes: the Winter Intake (Fall Intake) and the Summer Intake.

Among the two intakes, the winter intake in Germany is the primary option. It is also considered the largest intake, as it marks the beginning of the academic year. According to the DAAD’s press release dated 19-12-2024, over 400,000 international students were enrolled at German universities for the Winter Semester 2024/25, with nearly 90,000 being first-semester students. This strong trend makes Winter Intake 2025 a great opportunity for international students.

The winter semester offers maximum UG & PG programmes, scholarships and internship prospects, compared to other Germany intakes. Moreover, the campus life in the winter intake is in full swing, with a highly diversified student community and the majority of teaching staff actively working throughout.

This article includes a timeline, universities, programs, and financial aspects for students planning their application for the Fall intake 2025 in Germany, distinguishing the Fall intake from the Spring intake and Summer intake.

What is Winter Intake in Germany?

The winter intake in Germany is the primary admission cycle for German Universities. Winter intake is also known as the Fall intake which runs from October to March. The application process for the fall intake in Germany typically begins in April 2025. During this period, universities receive the most applications in a short span. Moreover, a variety of full-time courses such as diplomas, bachelor's and master's are available in this intake. 

The winter intake admission offers a smooth transition for many international students, including those from India. It provides the best financial aid and plentiful accommodation options. The winter semester season in Germany invites students to experience charming snow-dusted towns and cozy evenings indoors. Therefore, 99% Indian students target Fall intake in Germany.

Germany Winter Intake Application Timeline 2025 

Many foreign students prefer the winter intake as 90% of courses remain available. Early birds would ideally start their application process early April 2025 to avoid any unforeseen delays in their journey. The detailed winter intake application timeline in Germany for cohorts for the year 2025 is given below. Check it out before you start with your application process.

January 2025 to March 2025: Research Universities and Courses

• This is the first and foremost step students take when planning for studying abroad. Students must explore top-tier universities and courses that guarantee good return on investment (ROI).
• Shortlist 8-12 colleges to make strategic application decisions. Make sure the universities align with your interests and have high acceptance rates.
• Familiarize yourself with various bank loan options and college scholarships (public and private) based on affordability and low interest rates.
• Download the admission brochures and go through their offerings and facilities. It will be available more than a year earlier.
• If you're confident with the university you've selected, consider applying through Early Decision. If you're still unsure, you should consider applying through the Regular Decision.

March 2025 - May 2025: Prepare for Standardized Tests and English Language Proficiency Exams

• Register for the GMAT/GRE exam (as per university requirements) by June or three months prior to the test date as it provides sufficient time for preparation.
• Register for TOEFL/IELTS/PTE and German language tests like TestDAF and DSH at least a month before the test date to select your desired test date and time.
• Note that candidates who want to apply for German-taught programs would be required to appear for German language tests.
• Check the test-taking process, before taking the test. Have a cushion period in case you need to retake the test. Ensure you check the re-exam process and guidelines.
• Prepare for the basics of the GMAT and GRE beforehand.
• Indian students planning to study in Germany must also apply for their APS certificate to speed up the admission process.

April 2025 - mid-July 2025: Submission of Application Forms and Documents

• Fill out the respective application forms of the universities you’re applying for well before the deadline through the university's website or the central application portal Uni-Assist.
• Contact your professors and direct managers for 2 – 3 reference letters.
• Draft your statement of purpose (SOP) and essays, highlighting your strengths and uniqueness. Take a month for structuring and proofreading these documents.
• Submit your updated resume, SOP, letter of recommendations (LOR) and other documents before the deadline, often January 15th for summer semester courses. 

July 2025 - August 2025: Reply to College Emails and Responses

• By August, you will receive emails from universities you've applied for.
• Check your inbox daily.
• Reply to college e-mails as soon as possible to create a positive impression. Do not wait till the last minute.
• Appear for personal (one-on-one) or video interviews. These are scheduled for around July to August 2025. It generally takes 4 to 12 weeks to receive a response regarding admission or acceptance from universities.
• Acknowledge the acceptance letter sent by the university to help them gauge engagement.
  Pay a non-refundable deposit to confirm your admission.

May 1st 2025 - September 15th, 2025: Settle Your Finances and Apply for a German Student Visa

• Apply for education loans to cover your tuition, travel and accommodation expenses.
• Complete the paperwork for your German student visa. Check visa requirements well before August 2025.
• Visa slots are expected to open sometime in between late April and early June for Fall 2025 admissions.
• Apply for the student visa in time. Be aware of the visa processing time.

July 2025 - September 2025: Book Tickets and Prepare for Pre-Departure

• Book airline tickets.
• Arrange for an International Debit/Credit card.
• Look for student housing and accommodation options in Germany.
• Utilize social media and university housing portals to connect with potential roommates. Also, identify various
• on-campus and off-campus housing options.
• Collect all the documents and their photocopies.
• Check out your Pre-Departure checklist!

This timeline aligns with Indian academic schedules and global opportunities.

It's time to check the top universities in Germany, including popular courses, acceptance rates, application deadlines, and more. You’ll find all this essential information in the next section.

Top Universities & Popular Programs for Fall intake in Germany 2025

In the winter intake in Germany, almost all top universities fill their seats. Thereby, many Indian students develop a strong preference for this intake. Check out the universities, acceptance rates, popular programs offered and deadlines below to get admitted to this fall intake.

Popular German Universities Offering Winter Intake 2025
University Name	QS World University Rankings 2025	Popular Programs	Early Action Deadlines	Regular Action Deadlines	Acceptance rate
Technical University of Munich (TUM)	28	Physics Computer Science  Electrical Engineering  Aerospace Engineering	January 1	May 31	8-10%
Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU)	59	Medicine  Life Sciences Humanities Statistics and Data Science Business Administration	April 30	July 15	Approximately 10%
Heidelberg University	=84	Computer Science Biology Physics Economics Life Sciences & Medicine  Humanities	February or March	July 15th	Between 17% and 27%
Freie University of Berlin	97	Cardiac and Cardiovascular Systems  Infectious Diseases  Pharmacology and Toxicology Immunology  Neuroscience and Behavior	-	Limited Admission Programs: July 15  Unrestricted Admission Programs: September 1	Around 15%
RWTH Aachen University	99	BS Electrical Engineering Information Technology Biomedical engineering Automotive engineering Bachelor of Science Master of Science in Civil Engineering Robotic Systems Engineering	-	Restricted Admission (Master): July 15,  Restricted Admission (Bachelor): July 15 Open Admission (Master): July 15 Open Admission (Bachelor): October 20	Around 10%
KIT, Karlsruhe Institute of Technology	102	Computer Science  Mechanical Engineering  Mathematics  Physics Digital Economics	Non-EU applicants have an early deadline of June 15th	EU and German applicants have a deadline of September 15th	Between 20% and 30%

Got a solid academic track record? Give yourself a head start—consider Restrictive Early Action to boost your chances for the winter intake 2025!

Note: Students thinking about deferring entry should be aware that deferral is not always possible. So, we recommend you check with your course department first.

To apply for the above mentioned universities, check the necessary documents required in the following section.

What are the documents required for Winter Intake in Germany 2025? 

Check out the documents required for winter (main intake) intake admission 2025 mentioned below:

1. Application Form: Fill out the application form carefully, following university guidelines and deadlines.
2. Language Proficiency: Submit English test scores like IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, MOI, or Duolingo. if it's not your first language, and German proficiency scores (e.g., TestDaF, DSH) if required by the program.
3. Standardized Test Scores: Submit SAT/ACT test scores for freshman and GRE/GMAT test scores for PG and Doctoral programs.
4. Letter of Motivation (SOP): A well-written statement of purpose (SOP) is required to showcase your goals, academic interests and reason to study in Germany.
5. Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Request 2–3 LORs from professors or managers, at least a month early.
6. Updated Resume or CV: Highlight academic background, work experience, and achievements.
7. Undergraduate Requirement: Provide a secondary school diploma equivalent to the German system.
8. Postgraduate Requirement: Submit a bachelor’s degree equivalent to German standards.
9. Valid Passport: A valid passport is required as proof of identity.
10. Passport-Sized Photographs: You'll need to provide two identical photographs that should be recent and passport-sized.
11. Application Fee Receipt: Proof of fee payment may be required for your application to be processed.
12. Proof of Funds / Bank Statements: Demonstrate that you have enough money to cover living expenses in Germany, typically a minimum of €11,904 per year. This is often proven through a blocked account.
13. APS Certificate: If your Indian educational qualifications are not automatically recognized, you may need to obtain an APS certificate.
14. Proof of Admittance: Submit an official letter of acceptance from a German university
15. Health Insurance: Provide valid proof of health insurance coverage.
16. Visa Application Form: You will need to complete a visa application form.

Once your documents are ready, the next step is to plan your finances smartly for winter intake in Germany. Learn about budgeting, funding options, and managing expenses in the upcoming section.

How to plan financially for Winter Intake in Germany 2025?

Worried about expenses for studying in Germany this winter 2025? Plan your finances early with the below simple checklist. So, you can focus on your studies without the financial stress.

1. Estimate Costs & Create Your Budget (Do This Immediately!)

• Calculate all expenses: List tuition, housing (compare on/off-campus), living, food, books, travel, fees and personal spending to estimate your total cost of studying in Germany.
• Research Location Costs: Compare cost of living across cities—choosing a budget-friendly location helps cut expenses. Use student budget calculators for estimates.
• Create Budget: Prioritize essentials (tuition, housing); track your spending; know needs vs. wants.
• Budget for Currency: Keep a buffer for potential INR to euro fluctuations.

2. Secure Funding

• Block Account (Sperrkonto): Open a blocked account (minimum €11,208 for one year + tuition fees, if any) to meet visa and living expense requirements.
• Apply for Scholarships: Research & apply for DAAD scholarships, internships, university-specific (merit-based included), organizational, and government scholarships grants in Germany. Check deadlines.
• Explore Loans: Compare government and private bank education loan options (interest rates, terms). Apply early as processing takes time.
• Check Employer Sponsorship: If working, see if your employer offers tuition sponsorship or reimbursement.
• Research Assistantships (Grads): For graduate students, research Teaching or Research Assistantships (TA/RA) which offer stipends/tuition waivers.

3. Plan Earning & Saving in Germany

• On-Campus Jobs: Look for part-time job opportunities available at your university upon arrival.
• Off-Campus Work Opportunities: International students in Germany can work up to 20 hours per week during the semester. Make sure to understand residence permit regulations and secure the necessary permissions before starting any job.
• Arrange Health Insurance: Ensure you have mandatory provincial or university health insurance arranged for your entire stay.
• Save Money Daily: Buy used books, cook at home, use public transport & avail student discounts.

4. Manage Money Effectively in Germany

• Open German Bank Account: Do this after arrival to manage your finances, pay bills and to avoid foreign transaction fees.
• Use Uni Financial Workshops: Attend university workshops on budgeting and financial management.
• Build Credit Carefully: Pay bills on time. Consider a student credit card later if needed and manageable.

Plan early, be prepared, and manage your money smartly to make your Germany Fall 2025 journey stress-free and successful.

2025 Updates on German University Admissions 

• New Tuition Fees at Select Universities: Starting in 2025, some German universities have introduced tuition fees for non-EU international students. For example, the Technical University of Munich (TUM) now charges tuition fees for non-EU students, marking a shift in Germany's traditionally tuition-free public higher education system.
• Enhanced Employment Opportunities: From January 2025, the minimum wage in Germany has increased to €12.82 per hour, allowing students to earn more through part-time jobs. The mini-job salary threshold has also been raised to €556 per month, offering more financial flexibility to students.
• Launch of the German University of Digital Science: In April 2025, Germany launched the German University of Digital Science, the country’s first fully digital university. It offers programs in fields like Applied AI, Cybersecurity, and Digital Transformation, with annual tuition fees set at €7,500. The university aims to make quality digital education accessible to students globally.

Want to study abroad at a German University? Connect with our Kanan Study Abroad Counsellors and get personalized guidance. We’ll help you with university admissions, test preparation, and everything in between. Start your application today and take the next big step in your academic journey!

Frequently Asked Questions for Winter Intake in Germany 2025 

1. What are the application deadlines for Winter intake in Germany?

The application deadline is often July 15th if the course starts in the winter semester. However, deadlines may vary depending on the university and program. It’s advisable for students to check the official university websites and apply early to increase their chances of admission and scholarship consideration.

2. Do German universities accept gap year students in fall intakes?

Yes, most German universities do accept gap year students in all intakes, provided they can justify the gap with valid reasons and supporting documents such as work experience, internships, or skill-building activities. In general, German universities generally accept study gaps of 1-2 years for undergraduate programs and up to 5 years for postgraduate programs.

3. What if I miss the deadline for September intake in Germany 2025?

If you miss the deadline for September intake 2025, you can apply for the next intake, Summer intake. Some universities may allow late applications with additional fees or limited program options. Contact the university's admissions office for further guidance on your options.

4. Can I switch my intake after receiving an admission offer? 

Yes, in Germany, switching your intake after receiving an admission offer is possible in some cases, but it depends on the university’s policy and the program. You’ll need to formally request a deferral or reapply for the next intake. Always consult the university’s admissions office for specific guidelines.

5. Can I re-apply to the same college for Summer intake 2025 if I get rejected in Winter Intake?

Yes, you can re-apply to the same college for Summer 2025 if you get rejected in the Winter intake. However, it’s important to review the reasons for rejection and address any weaknesses in your application, such as improving your documents or preparing better for interviews.

6. Is it harder to find part-time jobs if I arrive in the winter intake in Germany?

It is not necessarily harder to find part-time jobs if you arrive in the May intake in Germany. While job openings may be slightly lower compared to the Winter intake, opportunities are still available in larger cities if you actively search and have German language skills. Employers hire year-round, and international students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year. It’s important to start looking early and network with fellow students.    

7. Can I get admission to German universities with a GPA below 3.0?

Getting admission to German universities with a GPA below 3.0 can be challenging, but it is possible. Some universities may have flexible admission policies or consider other factors like work experience, extracurricular activities, personal statements, or strong recommendation letters. You can also explore pathway programs or conditional offers that allow you to improve your GPA during initial semesters.

8. What is the CGPA requirement for Technical University of Munich (TUM)?

Although the Technical University of Munich (TUM) does not specify a minimum GPA for admission, successful candidates generally possess a GPA of 3.5 or higher, with significant emphasis on mathematics and science coursework.

9. Is the Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich a good option for international students?

Yes. Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich is a good option for international students seeking a prestigious, research-oriented education in a diverse and welcoming environment. LMU is widely respected for its academic excellence, offering a broad range of programs, many taught in English, and attracting students from around the world.

10. What German universities accept Winter 2025 applications for freshman (first-year) students?

Several German universities like Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich, Heidelberg University, RWTH Aachen University, and the Free University of Berlin are accepting applications for winter 2025 for freshman students. 

11. Which is better, Winter or Summer intake?

The Winter intake is generally considered better due to its wider course availability, more scholarship opportunities, and alignment with the Indian academic calendar. However, the summer intake can be ideal for students needing more preparation time or aiming for less competitive admissions. The best choice depends on your academic goals and readiness.

12. How to acquaint yourself with students?

If you're an introvert or nervous talking to others, well, many are in the same boat as you. Some of the best ways to acquaint yourself with students are:

• Strike up a conversation with small talk like, what’s your name, where you’re from, what your major is, etc.
• Join uni’s sporting teams or clubs. You will make friends there for life.
• Do group assignments, labs, chat casually, grab a coffee and debrief on a lecture.
• Try street food and new cuisines with new friends. Don’t hesitate to ask native students for recommendations.
• Be intentional. Don’t waste time on people who aren’t putting in the same effort.

13. How to plan financially for fall intake in Germany 2025 as a middle class student?

If you're a middle-class student planning to study in the Germany for the Fall 2025 intake, here’s how you can prepare financially:

1. Estimate your total expenses. Include tuition fees, accommodation, food, travel, and emergency funds.
2. Apply for scholarships and bursaries. Check those offered by U.S. universities and Indian government programs.
3. Explore education loans. Consider taking a loan from a trusted bank or financial institution to cover upfront costs.
4. Choose budget-friendly housing. Look for shared or affordable accommodation near your campus to lower living expenses.
5. Work part-time. Use the work options allowed under your student visa to earn extra income and gain local experience.