Information Guide › Application
Application timeline: winter and summer semester step by step
Two dates govern the German academic year — 15 July and 15 January. Visa timing is what actually decides whether you make it.
Reviewed by: Hazem Ibrahim (M. Sc.) · 2026-08-03 Reviewed
Reference dates
- Winter semester (starts October)apply by 15 July
- Summer semester (starts April)apply by 15 January
- Programmes without admission restrictionoften longer deadlines
Exceptions
Master programmes often close earlier; nationally restricted subjects run through hochschulstart.de.
Checklist
- Note the deadline per programme
- Start translations early
- Book the visa appointment early
Official sources
- hochschulstart.de — Foundation for University AdmissionStiftung für Hochschulzulassung · 2026-08-03
- DAAD — Applications and deadlinesGerman Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) · 2026-08-03
- uni-assist — Application planninguni-assist e.V. · 2026-08-03
General organisational information — not legal advice and not representation before authorities.