When do I need to take the GRE test or is there any other test required in Germany/Italy for a Master's?
The GRE is not mandatory for most Master's programs in Germany and Italy. Both countries primarily evaluate your undergraduate GPA, subject alignment, and language proficiency. Only a small number of elite technical universities and English-taught business programs recommend or require the GRE.
One of the advantages of studying in Germany or Italy is that most universities do not require standardised test scores like the GRE or GMAT as part of a Master's application. The academic culture in continental Europe prioritises your undergraduate academic record and subject match far more heavily than test scores. That said, there are exceptions - especially in English-taught programs at elite technical schools - so it pays to check your specific target programs carefully.
Test Requirements for Masters in Germany and Italy
| Test | Germany | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| GRE | Rarely required. Recommended at TU Munich and RWTH Aachen for select competitive English-taught programs. | Rarely required. Some international business or engineering programs at Bocconi or Politecnico may recommend it. |
| GMAT | Required for some MBA programs. Recommended for select English-taught business programs. | Required for Bocconi School of Management MSc programs. Mandatory for most Italian MBAs. |
| IELTS or TOEFL | Required for all English-taught programs. German programs may require TestDaF or DSH instead. | Required for English-taught programs. Italian language certificate (CILS or CELI) for Italian-taught programs. |
| TestDaF or DSH | Required for all German-taught Master's programs | Not applicable |
| CILS or CELI (Italian Language) | Not applicable | Required for Italian-taught programs. Usually B2 level minimum. |
What German and Italian Universities Evaluate Most
| Evaluation Criteria | Weight in Admission Decision |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate GPA or Grade Average | Very high - Germany treats this as the primary admission criterion for most programs |
| Subject Alignment and ECTS Credits | Very high in Germany - your coursework must match the program's prerequisite subject areas |
| Language Proficiency Test Score | High and mandatory for both countries regardless of program language |
| Statement of Purpose or Motivation Letter | Moderate to high - particularly at Italian universities which emphasise personal narrative |
| GRE or GMAT Score | Low to optional - only decisive at a small number of elite and business-focused programs |
My Advice
For most engineering, science, or humanities programs in Germany and Italy, your time is better invested in improving your IELTS or German/Italian language score and ensuring your undergraduate credits match the prerequisites of your target program, rather than preparing for the GRE. However, if you are targeting Bocconi for an MSc in Finance or Economics, treat the GMAT as mandatory - it significantly affects your competitiveness there. Check each program's specific admissions requirements page rather than relying on general country-level guidance.
More expert answers
Yes, for most English-taught master's programs in Germany and Italy, an English language test like IELTS is usually required.
Some universities may waive this if your four-year bachelor's degree was taught entirely in English and you provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate. Policies vary by university and program - some may still require IELTS, while others may offer a waiver.
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