How many universities should I apply to, and when do the application windows open for public universities in Germany for a Master's?

You should aim to apply to 5 to 8 public universities in Germany, since strict ECTS and grade matching criteria make it hard to call any program a guaranteed safety school. Your list should split roughly into 2 to 3 reach programs, 3 to 4 target programs, and the rest as safer options. Timing matters just as much as your list, since Germany runs two separate intakes each year.

Application Windows You Need To Track

How To Build Your University List

• Dream or reach tier: 2 to 3 programs where your profile is a close match but competition is fierce, such as TU9 universities.
• Target tier: 3 to 4 programs where your ECTS credits and GPA comfortably meet the exact admission requirements.
• Budget for uni-assist fees, typically around 75 euros for your first university and 30 euros for each additional one.
• Some competitive programs, such as those at TU Munich or RWTH Aachen, close their windows earlier, often by May 31 or even March.
• Start gathering your APS certificate and transcript evaluation documents 4 to 6 months before the application window opens.

My Advice

Start your uni-assist document collection and APS certificate process at least 4 to 6 months before the May window opens, since the July 15 deadline feels comfortable until you realize your target programs like TU Munich may have already closed by May 31.