A points-based admission system (numerus clausus)

A points-based admission system (numerus clausus) refers to a limited number of places at universities in Germany in certain degree programs and is used synonymously with “admission restrictions” regarding access to a degree program at a university.

For degree programmes with restricted admission (numerus clausus), a selection process is conducted. The selection procedures are governed by the student selection regulations. There is no lottery system at HSZG.

Places at university are allocated in the selection process based on the criteria of the “average grade” on the university entrance qualification and “waiting time.”

When allocating places at university based on grade point average, there are two quotas: the so-called “aptitude quota” (60% of places at university are allocated based on the university’s own selection criteria) and the so-called “top-performing students quota, ”(20% of the available places at university are awarded to applicants with the best grade point averages). Under the aptitude quota, an additional selection criterion is used in addition to the grade point average—for example, relevant internships or a relevant vocational degree—meaning that the aptitude quota also takes into account weighted, so-called “improved” grade point averages are also taken into account. Applicants who can demonstrate a relevant internship, a year of social service, or a relevant vocational qualification receive a bonus (0.3 for an internship, 0.5 for a vocational qualification). In this case, the grade point average on the university entrance qualification—reduced by the respective bonus—is used in the selection process. This means that even with a significantly “lower” grade point average, you can still secure a place at university. And this applies to 60% of the available places at university within a degree programme with restricted admission (numerus clausus). The entire process is described in detail in the student selection regulations!