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Do I need the GRE to apply for a Masters in Germany?

03 Aug 2026 · Answered by Abhishek Mehta · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

No, the GRE is usually not required for a Master's in Germany. Your CGPA, APS certificate and an English test like IELTS carry the real weight. A few competitive programmes may still ask for it, and at TU Munich a strong GATE percentile can help your application.

Abhishek Mehta
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Good news: for the large majority of German Master's programmes you do not need the GRE. Admissions here lean on your CGPA, your APS verification and your English test far more than on a standardised aptitude score, so you can usually save the GRE time and fee.

What German Master's Programmes Require

RequirementStatus
GREUsually not required
CGPACentral to selection
APS certificateMandatory for India
English test (IELTS/TOEFL)Required

Where a Test Score Still Helps

ScoreWhere it helps
GREA few competitive programmes only
GATE ~90th percentileCompetitive at TU Munich

My Advice

Before booking a GRE, check the exact requirements of each shortlisted programme, since most will not ask for it. Put that time into a higher IELTS score, sharper projects and a compelling Letter of Motivation instead; those move the needle far more for German 2026 and 2027 admissions.

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