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 make admission decisions. The final decision is made by the university after receiving your evaluated application.
Where to Access Uni-Assist
You must complete your application through the official Uni-Assist online portal.
Who Needs Uni-Assist
You need Uni-Assist if:
• Your target university requires applications via Uni-Assist
• The university requires a VPD (Vorprüfungsdokumentation)
You generally do not need Uni-Assist if:
• The university uses its own direct application portal only
• You hold a German Abitur qualification
What Is a VPD (Vorprüfungsdokumentation)?
A VPD is an official pre-evaluation document issued by Uni-Assist. It includes:
• your converted GPA
• verification of your certificates
• Confirmation of general eligibility for German higher education
Some universities require you to obtain a VPD before submitting your application through their own portal.
Examples include certain programs at TUM, LMU, Goethe University Frankfurt, and Hochschule Darmstadt (requirements vary by program and semester).
Required Documents
A standard Uni-Assist application usually includes:
• passport (photo page)
• Secondary school certificate
• university transcripts (for Master’s applicants)
• Graduation certificate (if available)
• APS certificate (required for applicants from certain countries, including China, India, and Vietnam, depending on regulations)
• German or English language certificates
• CV
• motivation letter
• internship/work proof (if required)
• Official sworn translations (if documents are not in German or English)
Incomplete, unclear, or incorrectly translated documents are one of the main causes of delays or rejection.
Application Fees
Uni-Assist charges:
• €75 for the first application
• €30 for each additional application within the same semester
The fee is charged by Uni-Assist and is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected due to missing documents.
Step-by-Step Submission Guide
1) Create an Account
Register on the Uni-Assist portal using your email address.
2) Fill Out Your Profile
Enter personal information, educational background, and academic qualifications carefully.
3) Choose Universities and Programs
Select the target semester (Winter or Summer) and add your chosen programs.
4) Upload All Required Documents
Upload clear, readable PDF files.
Avoid low-quality scans or phone photos.
5) Pay the Application Fee
Payment methods may include credit card, PayPal (availability varies), or bank transfer.
6) Submit and Wait for Processing
Your application will only be processed after payment has been successfully received.
Processing Time
Typical processing times:
• 4–6 weeks during normal season
• 6–10 weeks near deadlines
Uni-Assist does not offer priority processing. Submitting early is strongly recommended.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These issues frequently cause problems:
• Submitting incomplete documentation
• Uploading translations without the original documents
• Providing incorrect language certificates
• Waiting until shortly before the deadline
• Ignoring program-specific requirements (e.g., portfolio, GRE/GMAT, subject prerequisites)
• Forgetting to upload your VPD to the university’s own portal (if required)
After Uni-Assist Completes the Evaluation
You may receive one of the following outcomes:
Positive evaluation
Your application meets formal requirements and is forwarded to the university.
VPD issued
You must upload the VPD to the university’s application portal.
Rejection or request for additional documents
You may need to resubmit corrected documents. In some cases, an additional fee may apply for a new evaluation.
Tips for a Smooth Application
• Apply at least 6–8 weeks before the university deadline
• Prepare APS documentation early (if required)
• Use certified translators where necessary
• Double-check program-specific requirements
• Save your VPD securely for future use (if valid for multiple applications within the same semester)
Related Guides
Summary
Uni-Assist is a key step in the application process for many international students. While the procedure may seem complex, careful preparation, complete documentation, and early submission significantly reduce risks.
Once Uni-Assist finishes its evaluation, the university independently reviews your application and makes the final admission decision.
