How Many IGCSE Subjects are Required in Germany? A Comprehensive Guide

To study in Germany as an IGCSE student, it is crucial to understand the requirements for admission. One of the most important factors is the number of IGCSE subjects required for admission. 

While the exact number of subjects required can vary depending on the program of study and the university, some general guidelines can be followed.

Typically, students wishing to study in Germany as IGCSE must have completed at least five Cambridge IGCSEs at Grade C or above. These subjects should include two languages, mathematics, science (such as biology, chemistry, or physics), and social science (such as geography, history, or sociology). 

Furthermore, a prerequisite for admission is a minimum of 10 years of schooling, although it’s important to recognize that precise criteria differ according to the university and chosen program. 

Notably, IGCSE subjects are just one aspect of the application process; additional factors encompass grades, exam results, and extracurricular involvement.

Education System and IGCSE

Students must have completed at least ten years of schooling and should know that specific prerequisites can vary based on the university and program.

Germany’s well-structured education system encompasses primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. Students can opt for either general or vocational education at the secondary level. General education offers a diverse range of subjects, including IGCSE.

IGCSE subjects are recognized by esteemed universities, global employers, and further education institutions as proof of academic accomplishment and a globally recognized pathway to success.

Four independent academic subjects are mandatory for IGCSE students intending to study in Germany, with three needing to be at A Level standard (grades A). 

These must include a language and either mathematics or natural science. Additionally, students must select two A Level subjects: Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. The count of O Level subjects studied is not a determining factor.

The IGCSE certificate is granted to candidates who pass seven subjects, including two from Group 1, one from each of Groups 2-5, and a seventh subject from any group. 

The ICE recognition is granted in three levels: Distinction (attaining Grade A or higher in five subjects and Grade C or higher in two subjects).

Admission Requirements in Germany

To gain admission to a German university, students must meet specific general prerequisites, language proficiency, and academic criteria. The following information outlines the requirements for IGCSE students who wish to study in Germany.

General Prerequisites

Students must have completed at least ten years of schooling and obtain a recognized secondary school leaving certificate. 

In addition, the General Certificate of Education (GCE) is accepted in Germany as a direct subject-restricted university entrance qualification under certain conditions. 

These criteria are outlined within the Anabin database, the repository maintained by Germany’s Central Office for Foreign Education.

Language Proficiency

For IGCSE students, a language A Level is no longer compulsory. However, students must provide proof of language proficiency in either German or English. This can be achieved by completing a language proficiency test such as TestDaF or DSH.

Academic Criteria

To enroll in the College of Science, students must pursue two A-Level subjects from the following options: Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, or Physics. 

Additionally, they need to have achieved a minimum of five Cambridge IGCSEs graded C or higher in the specified subjects: 

• Two languages
• Mathematics
• Science (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
• Social Science (e.g., Geography, History, Sociology)

Students must demonstrate proficiency in four separate exams to gain direct admission to a university based on specific subjects. 

These exams must cover distinct subjects and offer a broad educational focus, avoiding vocational content.

IGCSE Subject Requirements

The number of IGCSE subjects required in Germany varies depending on the study program. 

Generally, students must have at least five Cambridge IGCSEs at Grade C or above, including two languages, mathematics, science (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics), and social science (e.g., Geography, History, Sociology). 

In addition, students must have completed at least ten years of schooling. However, subject-specific requirements still apply, depending on the chosen field of study. 

The Central Office specifies subject lists A, B, and C, which include academic and vocational subjects. Students should refer to these lists to ensure they meet the requirements for their chosen program.

For example, to enroll in and guarantee admission to medical specialties in German public universities, students must study three subjects (AL) among Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, in addition to the (As) language subject. The number of OL subjects that the student has studied is not considered.

Recognizing that accepting IGCSEs in Germany hinges on specific conditions is crucial. Students must refer to the Anabin database, maintained by the Central Office for Foreign Education in Germany, to confirm if their qualifications fulfill the essential criteria.

Navigating University Programs

When studying in Germany, IGCSE students must conduct individual research and review program-specific requirements to determine how many IGCSE subjects are required for university admission.

The requirements for university admission in Germany can vary depending on the program and the university. 

For example, some universities may require a minimum of five Cambridge IGCSEs at Grade C or above in subjects such as Mathematics, Science, Social Science, and Two languages, while others may require four independent academic subjects, three of which must be at A Level standard, with a passing grade (A-E), including a language and mathematics or natural science.

It is also important to note that the number of OL subjects the student has studied is not considered in some cases.

For instance, to join the College of Science in its various departments, the student must study two AL subjects from Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics in addition to the (As) language subject.

Application Process and Documents

The application process to study in Germany as an IGCSE student can be a bit complex. However, with the correct information, the process can be made easier. 

Steps to Apply

The initial application phase involves choosing the desired university and program. Once selected, it’s crucial to note the strict application deadlines set by German universities. For winter semester courses, the deadline is usually July 15, and for summer semester courses, it’s typically January 15.

After identifying the program and checking the deadlines, the next step is to complete the application form. The application form must be duly completed, and all the required fields must be filled in. In addition to the application form, you will also need to submit the following documents.

Required Documents

Official high school diploma copy, along with pertinent recognized academic certificates. Translated summary of courses and grades. Passport copy with photo. Language proficiency proof. Evidence of financial capability.

The certified copy of your high school diploma is a document that proves that you have completed your high school education. The relevant recognized academic certificates prove that you have studied the required subjects at the IGCSE level. 

The translated summary of your modules and grades outlines the subjects you’ve covered and the corresponding grades you’ve achieved.

A copy of your passport and a passport photo is required for identification purposes. The proof of language proficiency is a document that proves that you have the language skills necessary to study in Germany. 

Finally, the financial means document is a document that proves that you have enough money to support yourself during your studies in Germany.

Equivalency of IGCSE Subjects

In Germany, the recognition of Cambridge IGCSE is based on the general minimum requirements for equivalency to the Realschulabschluss, the Mittlerer Abschluss, and the Mittlerer Schulabschluss. It is important to note that each Federal State might have specific requirements.

To be recognized as equivalent to the Realschulabschluss, the Mittlerer Abschluss, and the Mittlerer Schulabschluss, a student must have five Cambridge IGCSEs at Grade C or above in the following subjects:

• Two languages
• Mathematics
• Science (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics)

It is worth mentioning that the number of OL subjects that the student has studied is not considered when joining the College of Science in its various departments. 

However, to join the College of Science, the student must study two AL subjects Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

Cambridge IGCSE subjects will retain the A*-G grading structure for all schools outside the UK. However, for schools in the UK only, Cambridge offers the IGCSE with a 9-1 grading option for the most popular subjects. 

Schools in the UK can choose either the A*-G or 9-1 grading option for these subjects without the need to switch syllabus.

Students who achieve at least a grade C(c) in five subjects and a grade F(f) in two more subjects earn a MERIT certificate. A PASS certificate is given to students who score G(g) or higher in seven subjects.

Failing ICE students who secure at least one grade G(g) in a syllabus receive an IGCSE certificate.

It is important to note that the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) does not grant equivalence to qualifications awarded to students who undertake studies in private mode and have not enrolled in a school. 

Therefore, if a student wishes to enter Cambridge IGCSE as a private student, AIU will not issue an Equivalence Certificate for their qualification.

Credential evaluation is crucial for converting IGCSE grades to the German system, as it assesses foreign educational credentials to establish their equivalence with German academic qualifications.

It is recommended that students consult with a credential evaluation service to determine the equivalency of their IGCSE subjects in Germany.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the requirements for IGCSE students to study in Germany vary depending on the department and the university. 

Generally, students must have at least five Cambridge IGCSEs at Grade C or above, including two languages, mathematics, science, and social science. Additionally, students must have completed a minimum of 10 years of schooling.

Students who wish to join the College of Science must study two AL subjects from among the subjects: Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, in addition to the (As) language subject. The number of OL subjects that the student has studied is not considered.

For entry to universities until 2024, four independent academic subjects are required, three of which must be at A Level standard, with a passing grade (A-E). The choice of subjects must include language, mathematics, or natural science.

It is important to note that vocational subjects are not accepted. Level Economics, Level Accounting, and Level Business Studies are viewed as overlapping subjects in Germany. 

Therefore, combining an A Level Economics with an A Level Accounting or an A Level Business Studies with an A Level Economics is best.