There are two categories of subjects in Germany: 1. Subjects with a centrally restricted admission policy (nationwide numerus clausus). These subjects are so popular that there are far more applicants than available places at the university. At present, these subjects include Medicine, Pharmacology, Veterinary Medicine and Dentistry.
guidelines. Not all of the courses taught are in Englishmedium, students should check with the institution regarding the medium of instruction before enrolling for courses. The academic year is generally divided into two sixmonth semesters; the winter semester normally begins in October while the summer semester begins in April. Course duration is around three months in the summer semester and four months in the winter semester. Students can use the non-lecture period to revise material taught in the previous semesters or to complete internships.
2. Subjects with no or a locally restricted admission policy(numerus clausus implemented by the university). Appying for a subject with a centrally restricted admission policy A nationwide numerus clausus (NC) applies to those subjects for which there are more applicants in Germany than the university system can absorb. If you wish to study one of these subjects, there are special conditions that pertain to your application.
The German higher education system generally has three distinct types of institutions, • Universitäten: Universities and equivalent institutions are greatly focused on research and teaching. Most Universities offer courses in practically all subject areas while some universities choose to specialize in a particular field. • Fachhochschule (FH): FHs were especially established to give students a chance to engage in the more practical studies and applied research. Subjects offered by FHs cover fields like technology, business, IT, design, social fields, education, nursing and applied natural sciences. • Kunst-, Film-, or Musikhoch-schulen: Colleges of art, film and music offer artistic-creative subjects – like fine art, industrial and fashion design, stage design, graphic art, instrumental music or singing. There are even special media-oriented colleges that train directors, camera operators, authors, film-makers and other TV or media professionals.
Where you submit your application depends on the country you come from and whether you have a German higher education entrance qualification. Two groups of applicants must submit their applications to the Foundation for Higher Education Admission (formerly ZVS): 1. Applicants from EU member states, as well as Liechtenstein, Iceland and Norway 2. Applicants who have received their secondary school-leaving certificate in Germany or at a German School abroad For more information visit the website of the Foundation for Higher Education Admission All other applicants should submit their applications directly to the university of their choice, or apply through uni-assist.
Besides the state (public) higher education institutions, a number of private universities also operate in Germany that generally offer subjects from the fields of law, economics and business administration and social sciences. Private universities often maintain close contacts with companies in order to give their graduates an edge and better career prospects.
Appying for other subjects All international students who wish to study subjects with no centrally restricted admission policy should 83