Applications for the WeltWeit Programme are usually assessed on the basis of the submitted application documents. The following criteria are considered during the selection process:

• Language proficiency
• Academic plans and study proposal for the period abroad
• Academic performance to date

If a decision cannot be made solely on the basis of the written application, shortlisted applicants may be invited to an interview.

The interview is conducted in both German and the relevant foreign language. It focuses on your motivation for studying abroad, your academic plans at the host institution, and your knowledge of the host university and country. Interviews may be organised either by the International Office or by the relevant academic department

Around 200 exchange places are available through the WeltWeit Programme each year, with approximately 280 applications submitted during a typical application cycle. However, competition varies considerably depending on the destination university. The highest number of applications is generally received for:

• tuition fee-waiver exchange places
• English-speaking countries
• universities located in large cities

As a result, these destinations are often particularly competitive.

At the same time, there are partner universities where the number of available places regularly exceeds the number of applications received. Students with appropriate language skills often have particularly good chances of securing a place at partner institutions in Latin America.

Please note that all applications are assessed on the basis of the selection criteria outlined above. Meeting the academic and programme requirements remains essential, regardless of the number of available places.

As part of your application, you may indicate several host university preferences. We strongly encourage you to consider a range of suitable options rather than focusing exclusively on the most popular destinations.

Please ensure that every preference you list is a destination you would genuinely be willing to attend. Applicants can receive only one offer of exchange placement, which may be at their second, third or fourth choice institution.

Our advice

Begin researching potential host universities as early as possible and explore a variety of destinations. A well-considered shortlist of suitable partner universities can significantly strengthen your application strategy and increase your chances of a successful outcome.