Applying to a German university can be an exciting but complex process. There are essentially three main ways to submit your application, each with its own unique steps. This guide will walk you through these methods, with a particular focus on the Preliminary Documentation (VPD) process, which plays a crucial role for international students.
1. Direct Admission Through University Portals
The first and simplest method to apply to a German university is to directly use the university’s application portal.
Steps to Apply:
- Go to the university’s official website.
- Find the admissions section relevant to your course of interest.
- Submit your application online, along with the required documents.
- Pay the application fee, if applicable.
After submission, the university will review your application and decide whether to accept or reject your application based on their criteria.
2. Applying Through Uni-Assist
The second method is to apply through Uni-Assist, an organization that evaluates applications for many German universities. Uni-Assist serves as a middleman between you and the universities, ensuring that your documents and qualifications meet German educational standards before forwarding your application to the university.
Uni-Assist Process:
- Submit your personal information, educational background, and required documents to Uni-Assist.
- Uni-Assist reviews and verifies the data.
- Once approved, Uni-Assist forwards your application to the university for consideration.
This service simplifies the application process for students applying to multiple universities, as Uni-Assist ensures all necessary conversions and evaluations are handled uniformly.
Benefits:
- Uni-Assist converts non-German GPAs into the German grading system, ensuring your qualifications are accurately represented.
- It verifies the equivalence of your degree to German standards.
3. Preliminary Documentation (VPD) Process
The third method, and the one we will explore in more detail, involves the Preliminary Documentation (VPD). Some universities require this document to assess your qualifications before allowing you to apply.
What is VPD?
The VPD is a certificate provided by Uni-Assist, confirming the eligibility of your foreign degree or qualifications. It includes an evaluation of your academic records and converts your GPA to the German system.
How Does the VPD Process Work?
- You send your documents and data to Uni-Assist for evaluation.
- Uni-Assist generates a VPD report, which certifies that your qualifications meet the requirements of the German university.
- The university will use this VPD to create your merit ranking and decide whether to accept or reject your application.
Some universities explicitly mention that they require this document in the application process, and you must provide the VPD before submitting your full application to the university portal.
Example:
Let’s say you’re applying for a Master’s in Electrical and Micro Systems Engineering. You would check the university’s application requirements, and if they mention the need for a VPD, you apply for one through Uni-Assist before submitting your university application.
How to Apply for a VPD
To apply for a VPD, follow these steps:
- Search for Your University:
- Visit Uni-Assist’s portal and look for your desired university and course.
- Make sure your course requires a VPD before proceeding.
- Create an Account:
- Set up an account on Uni-Assist.
- Select the appropriate course and university.
- Submit Your Documents:
- Upload your educational documents, including transcripts and degree certificates.
- Ensure all documents meet the specific requirements of the German system.
- Payment:
- Pay the application fee, typically around 75 Euros for the first application. Additional applications may require separate fees.
- Wait for Processing:
- Uni-Assist usually takes 3 to 6 weeks to generate the VPD document.
- Make sure to apply early, as German universities often have strict deadlines.
- Submit to University:
- Once you receive your VPD, upload it to the university’s portal and complete the application process.
Important Tips for VPD Applications:
- Start your VPD application well before the university’s deadline to avoid delays.
- If you’re applying close to a deadline, contact the university to inform them of your situation. Some universities may expedite the process if you explain the urgency.
- Make sure you double-check whether you need to physically send documents or if online submission is enough.
Additional Considerations
- Fees: The cost of applying through Uni-Assist or for obtaining a VPD may vary. Usually, the first application costs around 75 Euros.
- Processing Time: Uni-Assist takes 3-6 weeks to evaluate your documents and issue the VPD. Keep this in mind when planning your application timeline.
- Multiple Applications: If you apply to more than one university, ensure each institution’s requirements are met, and note that some may have unique additional steps.
Final Steps to Complete the Application
After completing the Uni-Assist and VPD processes, proceed with the final steps:
- Answer Mandatory Questions: Some university applications have mandatory questions you need to answer during the online application process.
- Check Application Mode: If the application is marked “Online Only,” you don’t need to send physical documents unless specified.
- Payment: Pay any remaining fees required by the university. Online payment is usually available through various methods.
- Follow Up: Keep in touch with both Uni-Assist and the university to ensure your application is processed in a timely manner.
Conclusion
Applying to German universities can seem overwhelming, but following these steps will help streamline the process. Whether you’re applying directly through the university, using Uni-Assist, or obtaining a VPD, make sure to give yourself plenty of time and stay organized. With the right preparation, you’ll be well on your way to studying in Germany!