As the winter semester of 2025 approaches, universities in Germany and Austria have released updated timelines for international student applications. These revised deadlines are especially relevant for applicants from non-EU countries, due to visa procedures and diploma recognition requirements.
Note: The academic year at universities in Austria and Germany consists of winter and summer semesters.
In Austria, the winter semester lasts from October 1 to January 31, and the summer semester from March 1 to June 30. At German universities, the winter semester starts on October 1 and lasts until March 31, while the summer semester runs from April 1 to September 30.
Enrollment at most universities takes place twice a year. However, programs usually start with the winter semester.
Austria: Admissions Run on a Strict Calendar
According to the Mastersportal admissions guide, non-EU/EEA applicants must follow these deadlines:
- Winter semester: early September 2025
- Summer semester: early February 2025
For EU/EEA and Swiss citizens, the dates are slightly more flexible:
- Winter semester: until mid-October
- Summer semester: until mid-March
If spots remain open after the primary round, some universities offer a late application window:
- Winter semester: until end of November
- Summer semester: until end of April
Important: No extensions are allowed — late submissions will not be considered!
Deadlines can also vary by institution. For instance, the University of Vienna has announced the following for non-EU applicants:
- Winter semester 2025/26: June 23 – September 5, 2025
- Summer semester 2026: November 13, 2025 – February 5, 2026
At the University of Graz, deadlines differ once again. For non-EU applicants:
- Bachelor’s & Master’s: June 9 – July 6, 2025
For EU/EEA/Swiss students:
- Bachelor’s: June 16 – August 10, 2025
- Master’s: June 7 – August 31, 2025
Be sure to check each university’s official website for program-specific dates.
Some institutions also hold entrance exams as early as six months before semester start, especially for undergraduate programs.
Germany: Deadlines Vary by Institution
In Germany, deadlines are set by individual universities. However, the common application deadline for the winter semester is July 15, whether applying through Uni-assist platform or directly to the university.
Some universities set earlier internal deadlines, especially where a student visa is required — sometimes as early as May or June.
For non-EU applicants, it's strongly recommended to apply at least six months in advance to ensure enough time for diploma recognition and visa processing.
Key Recommendations
Recommendation #1: Start preparing your documents at least 6 months in advance — this allows time for translations, legalization, visa applications, and responses from universities.
Recommendation #2: Language requirements matter. The language of instruction at universities is predominantly German (requirements: minimum level A2 for undergraduate studies in Austria, B2 for most programs in Germany). For English-language programs, you will need an international certificate such as IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge, etc.
Recommendation #3: Be aware of the Nachweis der besonderen Universitätsreife — a document proving eligibility for your chosen degree. This document must be issued by either a state-run university or an accredited private higher education institution in your country.
Recommendation #4: Many universities — especially universities of applied sciences — require entrance exams for bachelor’s admission. Always check the exact requirements on the university’s official site.
Final reminder: The earlier you start the process, the better your chances — not just for admission, but also for securing your visa and accommodation. So plan ahead!
