LeapScholar

What are the intake periods and application deadlines for master's programs in Germany and Canada?

24 Sept 2026 · Answered by Mona Negi · 2 min read
Quick Answer verified

Germany's main Winter intake starts in September or October with deadlines around July 15, while its smaller Summer intake starts in March or April with deadlines around January 15. Canada's Fall intake, its most popular, typically runs from December through March, varying by university.

Mona Negi
Mona Negi Verified
Leap Scholar's Counsellor
View Profile →

Germany follows a more standardized two-intake system, while Canada's deadlines vary considerably by university and program. Treat the general dates below as reference points, not universal deadlines, since individual master's programs can set earlier cutoffs.

Intake Periods and Deadlines

CountryIntakeProgram StartTypical Deadline
GermanyWinter (main intake)September or OctoberAround July 15
GermanySummer (smaller intake)March or AprilAround January 15
CanadaFall (most popular)SeptemberTypically December to March, varies by program
CanadaWinterJanuaryTypically August to October of the prior year

Why These Dates Are Only a Starting Point

  • Germany: Master's programs often have earlier deadlines than the general July 15 or January 15 dates, and some accept students only in the Winter intake.
  • Canada: Each university and program sets its own deadline independently, with no single Canada-wide master's deadline.
  • Processing time: uni-assist recommends applying at least 8 weeks before your deadline to allow for document processing.

My Advice

Check each specific program's own deadline page rather than relying on the general Winter or Fall dates, since master's programs frequently set earlier cutoffs than bachelor's programs at the same university. Start your document preparation, including APS certification for Germany, at least two to three months before your target deadline.

Canada Jan, May or Sep 2027: Which Intake Can You Still Apply For?

Get a personalised timeline before deadlines close.

4.7/5 Google 🎓 25K+ admits
Plan My Intake

More Universities & admissions questions

More Canada questions

🎓 Canada Jan, May or Sep 2027: Which Intake Is Still Open? Plan My Intake