Do I need to pay application fees and fill forms for public universities in Germany even if my percentage is below 75%?
Yes, if you formally apply, you pay the standard non refundable fee, around 75 euros for your first choice and 30 euros per extra course, regardless of your percentage. Many public university programs are non NC, meaning open admission, so below 75% does not automatically disqualify you from every course.
Yes, a percentage below 75% does not exempt you from paying application fees or completing forms, and since these fees are non refundable, it pays to check your actual eligibility before you submit anything. The good news is that a lower percentage does not automatically shut every public university door either.
What Below 75% Actually Means for You
| Program Type | What It Means | Fee Still Required |
|---|---|---|
| Non NC (open admission) | Accepts you if you meet the minimum bachelor's requirement, regardless of exact percentage | Yes |
| NC (Numerus Clausus) | Restricted, competitive, often needs a stated grade cutoff | Yes |
Steps Before You Pay Any Fee
- Check the specific course page or the DAAD International Programmes Database to see whether it enforces a strict percentage cutoff.
- Convert your percentage using the Modified Bavarian Formula, or ask uni-assist, to see your actual German grade equivalent.
- Only submit and pay once you have confirmed the program is realistically within reach for your converted grade.
My Advice
Spend a day converting your percentage and shortlisting non NC programs before you spend a single euro on application fees, since a below 75% score often still qualifies you for solid public university options once you know where to look.
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