Uni-Assist Complete Guide
Uni-Assist is one of the most important platforms for international students applying to German universities. It reviews your documents, converts your GPA, and checks whether you meet formal admission requirements before your application reaches the university. This guide explains how Uni-Assist works, required documents, processing times, mistakes to avoid, and how to submit your application step by step.
What Uni-Assist Does
Uni-Assist performs a pre-check of your application. It verifies:
• your certificates and transcripts
• your GPA conversion to the German system
• the authenticity of your documents
• whether you meet the formal requirements for the program
Important: Uni-Assist does not decide admission. It only forwards your application to the university once the check is complete.
Where to Access Uni-Assist
You will handle everything through the Uni-Assist online portal.
Who Needs Uni-Assist
You need Uni-Assist if your target university requires applications through it or requires a VPD (Vorprüfungsdokumentation).
You do not need Uni-Assist if the university uses its own application portal or if you already hold a German Abitur.
What Is a VPD (Vorprüfungsdokumentation)?
A VPD is an official document issued by Uni-Assist that includes:
• your converted GPA
• verification of your certificates
• confirmation of eligibility for German universities
Some universities require a VPD before you apply on their own website.
Examples: TUM, LMU (some degrees), Goethe University, HS Darmstadt.
Required Documents
A standard Uni-Assist application usually includes:
• passport (photo page)
• high school certificate
• university transcripts (for Master’s applicants)
• graduation certificate
• APS certificate (required for Chinese, Indian, Vietnamese applicants)
• German or English language certificates
• CV
• motivation letter
• internship/work proof (if required)
• official translations by sworn translators
Missing or unclear documents cause major delays.
Application Fees
Uni-Assist charges:
• €75 for the first application
• €30 for each additional application
The fee is charged by Uni-Assist itself and is non-refundable.
Step-by-Step Submission Guide
Create an Account
Go to the Uni-Assist portal and register with your email.
Fill Out Your Profile
Enter your personal information, educational background, and certificates.
Choose Universities and Programs
Select your target semester (Winter or Summer intake) and add the programs you want to apply for.
Upload All Required Documents
Upload clear, readable PDFs.
Avoid photos taken with a phone.
Pay the Application Fee
Payment options include credit card, PayPal (in some countries), or bank transfer.
Submit and Wait for Processing
Your application is only processed after payment is received.
Processing Time
Typical processing times:
• 4–6 weeks during normal season
• 6–10 weeks near deadlines
Uni-Assist will not accelerate your application, even if your deadline is close. Always apply early.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These mistakes cause the most trouble:
Submitting incomplete documents
Uni-Assist immediately rejects incomplete applications.
Uploading translations without original documents
Both original + translation are required.
Wrong language certificates
Always check what your program requires.
Waiting until the deadline
Uni-Assist starts checking only after your payment is confirmed.
Ignoring program-specific requirements
Some programs require portfolios, essays, GRE/GMAT, or specific course lists.
Forgetting to upload your VPD to the university portal
A very common and costly mistake.
After Uni-Assist Completes the Evaluation
You will receive one of the following:
Positive evaluation
Your application meets formal requirements and is forwarded to the university.
VPD issued
You must then upload the VPD to the university’s own application portal.
Rejection or missing documents
You might need to resubmit—and pay again.
Tips for a Smooth Application
• Submit at least 6–8 weeks before any deadline
• Prepare APS early
• Use sworn translators only
• Double-check each program’s extra requirements
• Keep your VPD safe and ready to upload
Summary
Uni-Assist is one of the most important steps for international students. While the system can seem slow or confusing, preparing documents correctly, avoiding common mistakes, and applying early will make the process smooth.
Once Uni-Assist approves your application, the university takes over and decides on your final admission.