u/Big_Individual8903

TU Dresden MSc CS: Is There Really an Entrance/Aptitude Test?

Hello lovely people, I am applying to TU Dresden MSc Computer Science for Winter 2026. I heard there may be an aptitude/entrance assessment before or during evaluation. Is it an actual technical exam/interview focused on core CS subjects or just a formal aptitude assessment based on transcripts/modules?

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u/Big_Individual8903 — 21 hours ago

Which MSc CS universities should I target in Germany?

Hey everyone, I took my IELTS today and I’m planning to apply for MSc Computer Science programs in Germany for the next intake. I have a 1.8 German GPA equivalent and around 4 years of experience as a software developer.

My coursework roughly includes ~25 ECTS in Mathematics, ~75 ECTS in core Computer Science, ~65 ECTS in Programming/Software Engineering, and ~15 ECTS in Electronics/Hardware.

I’m mainly looking for a generic MSc CS program (not AI/Data Science specialisation) with good flexibility and strong software engineering opportunities. Current interests are TU Dresden, Paderborn, RPTU Kaiserslautern, Passau, Potsdam, etc.

Based on my profile, where do you think I should realistically apply?

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u/Big_Individual8903 — 4 days ago

Hi everyone,

I’m planning to apply for MSc Computer Science programs in Germany (Winter intake) and would really appreciate some guidance on shortlisting and prioritising universities.

🎓 My Profile:

  • B.Tech in Information Technology (India)
  • CGPA: 8.39/10 (~1.8 German GPA)
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • 4 years of experience as a Software Developer (Frontend)

🎯 My Goal:

  • Transition into software engineering roles with a focus on systems, backend, and scalable applications
  • NOT interested in Data Science / AI / Analytics
  • Prefer systems-oriented and industry-relevant programs

🧠 What I’m Looking For:

  • Strong CS fundamentals (OS, Networks, DB, Distributed Systems)
  • Practical + industry-aligned curriculum
  • Good chances for backend/software engineering roles after graduation

📋 Current Shortlist:

Top Choice:

  • TU Dresden — MSc Computer Science

Core Targets:

  • Paderborn — MSc Computer Science
  • RPTU Kaiserslautern — MSc Computer Science
  • University of Passau — MSc Computer Science
  • University of Potsdam — MSc Computer Science

Considering Adding:

  • Saarland University — MSc Computer Science (GRE required?)
  • TU Berlin — MSc Computer Science
  • University of Freiburg — MSc Computer Science
  • FH Aachen — MSc (CS/Software Engineering)

Backups:

  • Bauhaus Weimar — CS for Digital Media
  • Hof University — Applied Research in CS

❓ Questions:

  1. Is TU Dresden very selective in practice? I’ve heard mixed things about rejections even with strong profiles
  2. Based on my profile, how realistic are my chances for:
    • TU Dresden
    • TU Berlin / Saarland
  3. Are there any good backend/system-focused programs I’m missing?
  4. Any universities I should remove due to weak ROI or poor alignment?
  5. Does my IELTS (6.5) limit me significantly?

⚠️ Additional Context:

I’m trying to avoid applying randomly and want to focus only on programs that actually help with backend/system engineering roles in Germany.

Would really appreciate honest feedback, especially from people already studying or working in Germany.

Thanks in advance!

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u/Big_Individual8903 — 10 days ago