How to Get Into German Universities With LOW GRADES

Summary

This video offers strategies for students with lower grades to enter German universities, highlighting open admission programs in natural sciences and engineering. It suggests applying during the summer semester for less competition and emphasizes the importance of learning German to boost profiles. The video also recommends considering universities of applied sciences and smaller cities for lower entry requirements, and advises on improving application quality with a strong motivation letter, relevant experiences, and letters of recommendation.

Takeaways

• 🎓 Certain universities and degree programs in Germany are more accessible to students with lower grades, especially those with open admission ('zulassungsfrei').
• 🔬 Programs in natural sciences and engineering often don't have strict admission requirements, allowing students to prove themselves through university performance.
• 📅 Applying for summer semesters can increase your chances of acceptance, as there's typically less competition and less strict admission requirements.
• 🇩🇪 Learning German can significantly boost your profile, especially if you're applying with lower grades. German proficiency is valued by universities and later in the job market.
• 🏫 Universities of Applied Sciences ('Fachhochschule') in Germany are generally more accessible to students with lower grades, often requiring entrance exams and strong letters of motivation.
• 🌍 Private universities in Germany may have flexible admission criteria, focusing more on motivation, interviews, and personal attributes rather than grades.
• 🔎 Researching and applying to lesser-known universities or programs in smaller cities can increase your chances of acceptance due to lower competition.
• ✍️ A strong letter of motivation is crucial for students with lower grades, as it demonstrates passion and alignment with career goals.
• 📜 Including letters of recommendation and showcasing relevant internships, projects, and extracurricular activities can strengthen your application.
• 🏆 The quality of education in German universities is consistently high, regardless of the university's location or ranking, so don't overlook smaller institutions.

Q & A

Is it possible to get into German universities with low grades?

Yes, it is possible to get into German universities with low grades, especially through programs that have open admission and do not have strict admission requirements.

What does 'zulassungsfrei' mean in the context of German universities?

'Zulassungsfrei' means that the degree program has open admission, allowing anyone with a higher education entrance qualification to join without specific grade requirements.

Why are natural sciences and engineering degrees more likely to have open admission?

Natural sciences and engineering degrees are more likely to have open admission because they often give everyone a chance to prove themselves based on their university performance rather than prior grades.

What is a strategy for increasing the chances of university admission for those with lower grades?

One strategy is to apply for summer semesters, which typically have less competition and may have less strict admission requirements.

Why is learning proper German important for university admission and the job market in Germany?

Learning proper German is important because it boosts a student's profile, showing effort and commitment, and is beneficial for both university admission and later job opportunities in Germany.

What is the recommended German language level for English-taught programs in Germany?

For English-taught programs, aiming for at least the A2 level of German is recommended, while for German-taught programs, reaching B2 or C1 is advised depending on the requirements.

What is the University of Applied Sciences known as in Germany?

The University of Applied Sciences is known as 'Fachhochschule' in Germany.

How can students with lower grades increase their chances of admission to German universities?

Students with lower grades can increase their chances by focusing on improving other aspects of their application, such as writing a strong letter of motivation, showcasing relevant internships or volunteer work, and obtaining a letter of recommendation.

What is the advantage of applying to universities in smaller German cities?

Applying to universities in smaller cities can increase the chances of acceptance due to lower entry requirements and less competition, without compromising the quality of education.

How can students find new and less competitive degree programs in German universities?

Students can find new and less competitive degree programs by conducting thorough research online and keeping an eye on universities that frequently launch new campuses and programs.

What is the importance of a strong letter of motivation in a university application?

A strong letter of motivation is crucial as it explains the applicant's passion for the chosen field of study and their plan to succeed, helping to convince the university of their suitability for the program.