Winter Intake in Germany 2026: Top January Universities, Deadline, Start Date

January Intake, also known as January intake in Germany, begins in October and finishes in November. This Intake is a great option for international students and is also known as the winter intake. January intake in German universities offers a valuable alternative to traditional summer intake. Ideal for students who missed previous deadlines or need extra preparation time, this mid-year admission offers smaller class sizes, improved learning experiences, and flexibility. With the same curriculum and January admission, students can graduate sooner and enter the job market.

Winter/January intake in Germany is the perfect option for candidates who missed January deadlines, transfer students, professionals seeking career advancement, and individuals who need extra time to process visas or make financial arrangements.

Winter intake in Germany opens up new opportunities, making it an attractive option for students seeking a personalized study schedule.

So, if you missed the winter intake in Germany, let’s get started with the winter intake with the help of WayUp Abroad. If you don’t know how to get started with winter intake in Germany, don’t worry, leave it all to our study advisors in Germany, and they will take care of everything. Just contact us via email, phone, or chat. You can also contact us through the form, and we will respond to you within 24 hours.

When we talk about Requirements for Winter Intakes in Germany nothing is different you need the same documents and general requirements. Some universities require German language proficiency tests depending on the university you choose. If you choose your course in English then you can immigrate with an IELTS score of 6.0 to 7.0 band. If your documents are not in German or English then you need to share the translation of documents.

General Requirements:

1. Bachelor's degree (for master's programs) or high school diploma (for bachelor's programs)
2. Language proficiency: German: B1/B2 (depending on the university)/English: TOEFL (80-90) or IELTS (6.0-7.0)
3. GRE/GMAT scores (for some master's programs)
4. Letters of recommendation (2-3)
5. Motivation letter/personal statement
6. CV/resume
7. Transcripts and certificates
8. Proof of health insurance
9. Proof of financial support (blocked account or scholarship)

Additional Requirements (depending on the university/program):

1. Entrance exams (e.g. TestAS, Feststellungsprufung)
2. Portfolio/interview (for art/design programs)
3. Work experience (for certain master's programs)
4. Additional language proficiency tests (e.g., DSH, TestDaF)
5. University-specific entrance requirements

Document Submission:

1. Online application
2. Certified copies of documents
3. Translation of documents (if not in German/English)

Deadlines:

1. Typically December 15th for winter intake
2. Varying deadlines for different universities/programs with the help of our study in Germany consultants.

Depending on the university and program, different documents will be needed for the Winter intake application. Nonetheless, typical prerequisites consist of:

Academic Documents:

1. Bachelor's degree certificate (for master's programs)
2. Master's degree certificate (for PhD programs)
3. Academic transcripts (mark sheets)
4. Diploma supplement (if applicable)
5. Proof of university entrance qualification (e.g., A-levels, IB diploma)

Language Proficiency Documents:

1. German language proficiency test scores (e.g., TestDaF, DSH, Goethe-Institut)
2. English language proficiency test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, Cambridge Certificate)

Personal Documents:

1. Passport
2. Birth certificate
3. Proof of identity (e.g., ID card, driver's license)
4. CV/resume
5. Motivation letter/personal statement
6. Letters of recommendation (2-3)

Additional Documents:

1. Proof of health insurance
2. Proof of financial support (e.g., blocked account, scholarship)
3. Certificate of good conduct (if required by the university)
4. Apostille or certification of documents (if required)

University-Specific Documents:

1. University application form
2. Proof of university entrance exam (e.g., TestAS, Feststellungsprüfung)
3. Portfolio or work samples (for art/design programs)
4. Entrance test results (e.g., GMAT, GRE)

At WayUp Abroad, we're excited to guide you through the application process for Winter Intake in Germany 2026-2027. Our expert team will support you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and successful application journey.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

• Research and Shortlist Universities: Explore our partner universities in Germany and shortlist your preferred institutions based on your academic interests, budget, and career goals.
• Check Admission Requirements: Review the admission requirements for your chosen universities, including language proficiency, academic qualifications, and additional documentation.
• Prepare and Submit Documents: Gather and submit the required documents, including:
  1. Academic transcripts and certificates
  2. Language proficiency test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, or TestDaF)
  3. Letters of recommendation
  4. Motivation letter/personal statement
  5. CV/resume
• Apply to Universities: Submit your applications to your chosen universities through our online portal or directly through the university's website.
• Secure Admission: Receive admission confirmation from the university and review the terms and conditions.
• Apply for a Student Visa: Once you've secured admission, apply for a student visa at the German embassy or consulate in your home country.
• Finalize Accommodation and Health Insurance: Arrange for accommodation and health insurance in Germany, ensuring you're fully prepared for your studies.

In Germany, students can choose between two main intakes for higher education: the January Intake and the Winter Intake. Although they are often considered to be the same, there are actually some differences.

The Winter Intake usually starts in October and is the main intake of the year. Most universities and courses admit students during this time. Students admitted to the Winter Intake can start the entire new academic year and most scholarships, internships and course options are available.

The January Intake or Spring Intake usually starts in January. This is a smaller and limited intake, which is limited to a few universities and selected courses. The January Intake is convenient for students who missed the Winter Intake or want to start their studies faster. However, the scholarship and course options are less than the Winter Intake.

In short, the Winter Intake is the main intake and most students choose it, while the January Intake is an alternative opportunity. Students should check the official information of the university before choosing an intake.

Winter Intake in Germany 2026-2027

The winter intake admission in Germany begins when universities begin accepting applications for academic programs for the semester starting in January. This admission period runs from October to March, which is in line with the academic calendar of German universities.

During the winter intake, prospective students have access to various undergraduate and postgraduate programs in different fields. These programs are designed to meet the needs of both domestic and international applicants who wish to study in Germany.

Winter intake is an excellent opportunity for international students, especially those from countries outside the European Union, to apply for a place at a German university. This will allow sufficient time for visa processing, accommodation arrangements and other necessary preparations before the semester begins.

During the winter intake, each university and program sets specific application deadlines. Prospective applicants should study these deadlines carefully and submit their applications well in advance. Applicants should be aware of the admission requirements and procedures for their chosen programs, which may vary depending on the university and field of study.

Some universities may also offer additional support services or educational programs to facilitate international students’ transition to studying in Germany. Language courses, orientation sessions, and assistance with visa and residence permit applications may be part of these activities.

Winter intake in Germany comes with a lot of options. Yes, studying in Germany with winter intake can help you to choose from a wide range of programs. You can choose any undergraduate or postgraduate program in Germany to start your study abroad journey with winter intake. Know about some of the best courses and programs you should opt for:

Engineering and Technology

1. Mechanical Engineering
2. Automotive Engineering
3. Electrical Engineering
4. Civil Engineering
5. Renewable Energy

Computer Science and IT

1. Artificial Intelligence
2. Data Science
3. Software Engineering
4. Cybersecurity
5. Machine Learning

Business and Management

1. MBA
2. International Business
3. Supply Chain Management
4. Finance and Accounting
5. Marketing Analytics

Architecture and Design

1. Urban Planning
2. Sustainable Architecture
3. Industrial Design
4. Graphic Design

Natural and Applied Sciences

1. Biotechnology
2. Environmental Science
3. Physics
4. Chemistry
5. Mathematics

Medicine and Healthcare

1. MBBS (for undergraduate students)
2. Public Health
3. Nursing
4. Biomedical Engineering
5. Pharmaceutical Sciences

Arts and Humanities

1. Literature and Cultural Studies
2. History
3. Philosophy
4. Media and Communication

Scholarship for studying in any country are important including Germany. If you choose a public university in Germany, then you don’t need any scholarship for that as these types of universities are free. But if you choose any private universities you may need financial help to maintain your academics and living costs.

DAAD Scholarship

DAAD Scholarship is one of the best options for international students. This Scholarship offered by the German Academic Exchange Service, supports international students and researchers pursuing higher education in Germany. Also, eligible candidates include bachelor's, master's, and PhD students. As well as postdoctoral researchers, from developing and newly industrialized countries. Funding covers tuition, living expenses, and travel costs, enabling academic excellence.

Eligibility: DAAD Scholarship is eligible for international students who have a Bachelor's degree, are under 36 years old, have at least two years of work experience, and have a strong academic record, language proficiency, and a convincing motivation for studying in Germany.

Average Amount (in CAD): Average amount of the DAAD Scholarship is approximately €861-€2,000 per month, depending on the program and student status.

Germany Scholarship

Germany Scholarship supports talented students pursuing bachelor's, master's, or PhD programs at German universities. Eligible candidates include international students, German citizens, refugees, and students with exceptional academic achievements or social/family commitments. Recipients receive €300/month for 12 months, funded by the Federal Government and universities.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship funds international students pursuing joint master's degrees at European universities. Eligible candidates include non-EU citizens with a bachelor's degree, excellent academic record, and language proficiency. Recipients receive tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs, typically €1,400-€2,000/month for 1-2 years.

Heinrich Böll Foundation Scholarship

Heinrich Boll Foundation Scholarship supports international students pursuing master's or PhD programs in Germany. Eligible candidates include non-EU citizens with excellent academic records, social commitment, and a focus on sustainability, ecology, or social justice. Recipients receive €1,200/month for master's and €1,500/month for PhD programs.

Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship

Konrad Adenauer Stiftung Scholarship supports international students pursuing master's or PhD programs in Germany. Eligible candidates include non-EU citizens with excellent academic records, democratic values, and a commitment to social responsibility. Recipients receive €1,200/month for master's and €1,500/month for PhD programs.

Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship

Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Scholarship supports international students pursuing bachelor's, master's, or PhD programs in Germany. Eligible candidates include non-EU citizens with excellent academic records, social commitment, and a focus on social democracy and justice. Recipients receive €830/month for bachelor's and master's, and €1,200/month for PhD programs.

Deutschlandstipendium Scholarship

Deutschlandstipendium Scholarship supports high-achieving students pursuing bachelor's or master's programs in Germany. Eligible candidates include international students and German citizens with excellent academic records and social commitment. Recipients receive €300/month for at least 2 semesters, funded by the German government and private donors.

Hanseatic Scholarship

Hanseatic Scholarship supports students from developing countries pursuing master's programs in Germany, particularly in fields like engineering, economics, and social sciences. Eligible candidates have excellent academic records, strong social commitment, and financial need. Recipients receive a monthly stipend of €750-€1,000, tuition fees, travel costs, and language course funding for a duration of 1-2 years, depending on the program.

Kofi Annan MBA Scholarship

Kofi Annan MBA Scholarship supports talented students from developing countries pursuing an MBA at the ESMT Berlin or another top-tier European business school. Eligible candidates have excellent academic records, leadership potential, and a commitment to social responsibility. Recipients receive full tuition fees.

ESCP Business School Scholarship

ESCP Business School Scholarship supports exceptional students pursuing a master's degree at ESCP Business School in Europe. Eligible candidates have outstanding academic records, leadership potential, and a strong motivation for studying at ESCP. Recipients receive up to 50% tuition fee waiver.