Semester dates in Germany – guide
If you want to study in Germany, it is important to know semester dates and application deadlines. Universities work to fixed schedules, and missed deadlines can mean you only start your studies half a year later.
Germany normally has two semesters per year:
- winter semester
- summer semester
This guide explains:
- when semesters begin and end
- which application deadlines apply
- how you should organise your study timeline
Winter semester in Germany
The winter semester is the most common study start for international students.
Period
The winter semester usually begins on:
1 October
and ends on:
31 March
Lectures usually start in mid-October.
Application deadline
For many degree programmes, the following application deadline applies:
15 July
International students should start much earlier, however.
More on the application process:
➡️ Apply to German universities
Summer semester in Germany
The summer semester begins in spring and is the second option to start a degree.
Period
The summer semester usually begins on:
1 April
and ends on:
30 September
Lectures usually start in April.
Application deadline
The typical application deadline for the summer semester is:
15 January
Not all programmes start in the summer semester, so the winter semester is often the better option.
Overview of semester dates
| Semester | Study start | Application deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Winter semester | October | 15 July |
| Summer semester | April | 15 January |
These deadlines may vary slightly by university.
When should international students start planning?
Many students underestimate preparation time.
The whole process can take 6 to 12 months.
Typical timeline:
12 months before
Research degree programmes
10 months before
Take language tests
8 months before
Prepare applications
6 months before
Apply to universities
4 months before
Receive admission
3 months before
Apply for a visa
More on the overall process:
Visa and study preparation
Students from non-EU countries usually need a student visa.
Processing can take several weeks or months.
Typical requirements:
- admission letter
- blocked account
- health insurance
Enrolment at the university
After you receive admission, you must enrol within a certain deadline.
That deadline is usually:
2 to 4 weeks after you receive admission
More on enrolment:
➡️ Enrolment at German universities
Plan language tests in good time
Many degree programmes require language certificates.
Popular tests are:
German:
- TestDaF
- DSH
English:
- IELTS
- TOEFL
These tests should be taken several months before you apply.
➡️ Language certificates for Germany
Living costs and accommodation
Besides semester deadlines, you should prepare your financial planning.
Average living costs are:
900 to 1,200 euros per month
➡️ Cost of living for students in Germany
Finding a place to live can also take time.
➡️ Student accommodation in Germany
Common mistakes in study planning
Many international students make similar mistakes.
Missing application deadlines
Universities usually do not accept late applications.
Taking language tests too late
Without a language certificate you often cannot apply.
Applying for a visa too late
Visa appointments can be hard to get.
Starting the housing search too late
Housing is scarce in large cities.
Conclusion
Semester dates in Germany follow a clear system with two study starts per year.
The key dates are:
Winter semester
Start: October
Application deadline: 15 July
Summer semester
Start: April
Application deadline: 15 January
International students should ideally start planning 6 to 12 months ahead so every step is done on time.
Plan your studies in Germany
The path to studying in Germany includes several important steps:
- choose a degree programme
- prepare your application
- obtain a language certificate
- apply for a visa
- find accommodation
- complete enrolment
Germany for Students helps you organise all deadlines and steps for starting your studies in Germany.
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