How can I get a list of public universities in Germany, and what should I do if I want to target specific universities for a Master's?

Finding a full list of public universities in Germany is straightforward once you know the two official databases that cover almost every program in the country. Targeting a specific university, though, takes more than a search, since German admissions offices check your academic credits line by line. Getting both steps right early will save you from late rejections over technicalities.

Where to Search and How to Apply

Steps to Target Specific Universities

• Compare your bachelor's modules directly against the target program's Prufungsordnung, since missing specific ECTS credits can mean instant rejection
• Identify which application route each target school uses, since some run through uni-assist and others take direct applications like TUMonline
• Track deadlines carefully, since standard winter semester deadlines fall around July 15, but competitive programs often close between March 1 and May 31
• Prepare certified transcripts, language certificates, and a customized motivation letter for each university well before its specific deadline

My Advice

Build a simple spreadsheet listing each target university's deadline, application portal, and exact ECTS requirements before you start writing any motivation letters. That single tracker will stop you from missing an early deadline for a competitive program while you are still polishing an application for a later one.