Not getting a place at university – what now??

Admission to a university or college is an important milestone in the lives of many young people. But what if you don’t get a place at university despite all your efforts?? The disappointment is great, but it is no reason to bury your head in the sand.

There are several options to get a successful start to your college life despite a rejection letter. One option, for example, is to reapply for the next semester and complete an apprenticeship or internship in the meantime. Distance learning or studying abroad can also be attractive alternatives.

The important thing is not to get discouraged and actively look for solutions. In this article, we will highlight ways to deal with the situation and still achieve the dream of going to college.

Find an alternative

If you don’t get a place at university, you don’t have to be discouraged. There are many alternatives that one can consider. One option is to apply for dual studies or apprenticeships. Here you not only get theoretical knowledge, but also gain practical experience in the company. Another option is to take a gap year and get socially involved during this time, organize stays abroad or do internships.
Another option is to apply for a degree program with less demand. Often these programs have a higher chance of admission and still offer good career opportunities. Here, however, it is important to inform oneself sufficiently about the course of studies beforehand to ensure that it corresponds to one’s own interests.
Another alternative is to wait for the next semester or the next admission period. In the meantime, you can continue your education and prepare yourself optimally for the next attempt. However, it is important to keep an eye on the application deadlines and to apply early.

Use waiting semesters wisely if no study place is available

The road to university can be long and stony. Admission to the desired course of study does not always work out at the first attempt. Applicant numbers are often high and study places are limited, leading to a high level of competition. Even if you are rejected, however, it does not mean giving up. One way to still get closer to your study goal is to use the waiting semesters.

Waiting semesters are periods of time during which a person applied for a degree program but was not admitted. This time can be used to further your education, to do internships or stays abroad, or even to work. This can not only raise your own profile, but also help to bridge the waiting period faster.

In addition to personal development, it can also be useful to prepare specifically for your desired studies during this time. This can be done by attending lectures or seminars, but also by reading specialist literature. Good preparation can help you do better in the next application process and thus increase your chances of admission.

• Use waiting semesters wisely:
• Do further training, internships or stays abroad
• Targeted preparation for the study program of your choice
• Have a better chance of being admitted in the next application process

Alternatives to studying in Germany

If you don’t get a place to study in Germany, there are other ways to begin your studies. One option is to study abroad. Countries such as Austria, Switzerland or even Scandinavia can be considered for example. In these countries there is often a higher demand for students than in Germany.

It is also possible to study at English-speaking universities outside Germany. Especially popular are countries like England, Scotland, Ireland, Canada, Australia or the USA. However, it should be noted that tuition fees and living costs in these countries are often significantly higher than in Germany. Thus, one must carefully consider whether studying abroad is financially worthwhile.

• Semester abroad: A semester abroad during your studies in Germany can also be an option. This allows you to gain new experience abroad without having to complete your entire degree there. Information events at one’s own university can help here to find the right exchange program.
• Apprenticeship: An apprenticeship can also be an alternative to studying. Here, you can start a hands-on apprenticeship at a company and possibly add a degree later on.
• Studienkolleg: Those who lack the German language skills to start a study program in Germany can attend a Studienkolleg. Here, language skills are taught in a targeted manner and preparation is made for later admission to studies in Germany.

No study position? No problem!

A degree is not the only way to start a career. There are many alternatives to going to college that can be just as promising. An apprenticeship is an option. This can be completed in many different fields – from cooking to IT security. An apprenticeship usually lasts only two to three years and makes it possible to enter the job market directly.

Another option is to pursue an internship or trainee position. Both internships and trainee positions are available in many industries and often offer a quick way to gain valuable experience. Here, too, such a position often enables direct entry into working life.

If you don’t want to do an apprenticeship or internship, you can also opt for further training. This can be both professional and personal and can help advance a career in a specific field. Seminars, courses and certifications are good options here.

• The following are some of the alternatives to studying:
• Apprenticeships
• Internship/Trainee position
• Continuing education: Courses, seminars and certifications

It is important to be well informed in advance and to think carefully about what you want to do. Each person has individual interests and talents that need to be taken into account. It is important to take your time and research thoroughly to make the best decision for your career.

New strategies for the next application

If you don’t get a place at university, it is important not to give up and instead develop new strategies for your next application. One option is to apply specifically to smaller universities and technical colleges. Often the requirements here are lower and the chances of acceptance increase.

Another approach is to opt for alternative forms of study, such as a dual degree program or an apprenticeship followed by a degree program. Here, the possibilities are diverse and a successful career path can be pursued even without a classic degree program.

Internships as a way to start your career can also be an option. Through practical experience, one not only gains valuable skills, but can also make contacts and thus recommend oneself for future job offers.

• Another option is to look specifically for scholarships and grant programs. These can not only provide financial support, but also facilitate access to certain universities.
• Lastly, it is important to optimize your application documents. This includes not only writing a meaningful cover letter and resume, but also checking report card grades. Often universities set minimum requirements that are not met by many applicants.

Through a combination of the above strategies and good preparation for the next application, it is possible to successfully navigate the path to the degree of one’s choice despite a prior rejection.