Low grades? Why applying to Leuphana is still worth it

At Leuphana, the concept is explicitly based on the belief that the Abitur grade alone is not a good predictor of academic success. And this is reflected in the admissions process.

How the points system works at Leuphana for low abitur grades

Of the 59 maximum points in the Leuphana system, only 30 come from your Abitur grade. That means even a grade of 3.0 still gives you 10 points — and the remaining 29 points are entirely up for grabs through extracurricular achievements and the Study Skills test. A strong test result alone (say, 20 of 24 points) combined with 4 bonus points gives you 34 points.

Steps to maximize your Leuphana application appeal

First: audit your bonus points. List every extracurricular activity and check it against Leuphana’s recognition list.

Second: take the preparation seriously — structured practice over four to six weeks makes a measurable difference.

Third: choose your programme thoughtfully. Motivation is always key.

Is Leuphana a fallback or a first choice?

For many students, it’s a deliberate first choice: a campus university with a unique interdisciplinary model, strong sustainability focus, and an admission process that rewards the whole person. If that’s the kind of education you’re looking for, the grade question becomes secondary. Prepare well, apply confidently, and let the system work in your favour.

Start preparing now with our Study Skills test book series on Amazon.