Which of the following is the correct German phrase for 'to apply for a place at a university'?

• A. Sich einschreiben, Kurse belegen
• B. Zum Studium zugelassen werden
• C. Zulassungsbedingungen
• D. Sich um einen Studienplatz bewerben

Answer: (D)

In this case the action being described is applying for admission to a university, which in German is expressed with sich um etwas bewerben, using the object einen Studienplatz. This verb pair shows the person actively seeks a spot in a program. The full phrase Sich um einen Studienplatz bewerben literally means to apply for a study place.

Why this fits best: bewerben is the verb for applying, and um indicates what you are applying for. The reflexive form Sich bewerben shows it’s something you do to yourself, and Studienplatz is the specific thing you want.

For contrast, einschreiben means to enroll or register after you’ve been admitted, not the act of applying. Zugelassen werden is about being granted admission, not the act of applying. Zulassungsbedingungen are admission requirements, not an action.

Example: Ich bewerbe mich um einen Studienplatz an der Universität.