German Universities Accepting Backlogs: List of German Universities Accepting Backlogs

Yes, German universities accept students with backlogs, but the policies may vary. Most top German universities prefer applicants with 0 backlogs, but many public and applied science universities may accept students with up to 3-5 backlogs, especially if the rest of your academic profile is strong and you meet other requirements, such as having a high GPA, typically above 65%, and relevant work experience of 2-3 years.

German universities count backlogs following reattempts. For example, if the number of attempts in clearing a subject totals 3, German universities would consider the number of backlogs as 3. Also, German universities that accept backlogs consider a number of factors assessing backlogs, like the number of subjects you have backlogs in, GRE scores, GPA, and work experience. 

There is no general or fixed eligibility criterion written for backlogs to get into German universities, but here are the typical requirements and considerations that you have to generally meet to get into a German University with backlogs: 

• Clear All Backlogs: No German university accepts active backlogs or uncleared backlogs. You must add certificates of exam clearance for all your previous courses. 
• Minimum GPA: Most universities require a minimum GPA of 65% or equivalent average marks for consideration on backlogs. 
• Backlog Count: Most good universities only allow backlog up to a certain extent (usually up to 5), which may be even less for top-ranked universities, and high-demand, competitive courses in public universities.
• Backlog Certificate: Make sure to obtain a backlog certificate from the previous institution, as many universities deem it compulsory to verify your student status.
• Standardised Tests: Make sure to have relevant certificates of test scores, such as GRE, GMAT, IELTS, TOEFL, etc. 

Some of the top universities in Germany, like the Technical University of Munich and RWTH Aachen University, accept international students with backlogs. Typically, most German universities accept up to 3 to 5 backlogs, but let us take a closer look at the number of backlogs accepted in top German universities below:

Top public universities in Germany generally do not accept students with active backlogs, but students with backlogs in the past and strong academic histories are accepted. You must fulfil each university’s specific requirements to apply to a German university with backlogs.

Here's a step-by-step guide to help you apply to German universities with backlogs:

Step 1: Research target universities

Check each university’s official website for its policy. There is usually no general list for institutions or programs. Each institution and department may use its discretion.

Step 2: Clear all backlogs before applying

Ensure your official transcripts show a record of passing all the courses and that your degree is complete.

Step 3: Gather documentation

Obtain all official transcripts that are requested by the university. If requested, you must also obtain a backlog certificate from your home university, stating the number of backlogs and your current academic status. 

Step 4: Highlight strengths in your application

Use your statement of purpose or cover letter to explain any academic setbacks, emphasising improvement, determination, and relevant achievements. 

Step 5: Apply

After taking care of all the earlier steps, you can apply as usual. Make sure to correctly fill in the personal details, attach relevant proof, and keep track of the university and program deadlines. 

For students applying to German universities, backlogs are not an automatic rejection. Universities assess the number of backlogs, their relevance to the course, and your overall academic performance before deciding.

Let’s look at the key factors German universities consider when evaluating applications with backlogs:

GPA 

Most German universities accepting backlogs require a minimum percentage or equivalent GPA of 65% to assess your academic performance. Therefore, if you have a high GPA, despite having backlogs, there are chances of you getting accepted into a German university. 

Subjects with backlogs 

The chance of getting rejected at a university is higher if the course you have a backlog in is related to the course/ program you’ve chosen at that particular university. 

For instance, if you have applied to an engineering course, having a backlog in subjects like psychology will do you no harm. 

Time taken to clear backlogs 

If you have repetitive backlogs or multiple attempts to clear a backlog, your application may be REJECTED. On the other hand, having a single backlog will not lead to rejection. 

Backlog status 

Respectable, reputable universities in Germany that have been ranked high internationally will not accept students with an active backlog status. Therefore, it is essential for you to submit a backlog certificate showcasing an inactive backlog status. 

Work Experience 

Unlike universities in other countries, German universities accepting backlogs require a relevant work experience of 2-3 years. A relevant work experience increases your chances of getting accepted to a renowned German university despite having backlogs. 

Having a backlog is not a thing to be worried about, provided you have a high GPA and a solid background with co-curricular activities. According to SPO (the university examination guideline in Germany), you must clear all backlogs before application or until the enrollment process. 

Connect with Yocket professionals and increase your chances of getting admitted to a German university despite having backlogs. Most German universities accept 3-5 backlogs, so it’s very important to apply accordingly. We’ll help you with that. Connect now!