Information Guide › Application
uni-assist, VPD and direct application: three routes, one choice
The most common mistake in international applications — which route applies to you and how the timing works.
Reviewed by: Hazem Ibrahim (M. Sc.) · 2026-08-03 Reviewed
uni-assist checks the formal requirements of international applications and converts your grade into the German system. Admission itself is always decided by the university.
| Standard route | VPD route | Direct | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who checks | uni-assist, then forwards | uni-assist issues a document | university only |
| Who submits | uni-assist | you, with the VPD | you |
Timing matters
The VPD must reach the university before the application deadline. Request it several weeks in advance.
Checklist
- Check the route for each university
- Prepare certified translations
- Request the VPD early
Official sources
- uni-assist — What is the preliminary review documentation (VPD)uni-assist e.V. · 2026-08-03
- uni-assist — Glossaryuni-assist e.V. · 2026-08-03
- DAAD — Studying in GermanyGerman Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) · 2026-08-03
General organisational information — not legal advice and not representation before authorities.