Study in Germany from India
A step-by-step guide tailored for students applying from India — APS, embassy, documents and timeline.
🏛️ Visa application at
New Delhi (consulates in Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore, Kolkata)
📜 APS certificate
Required (mandatory)
Since November 2022 the APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) certificate is mandatory for all Indian applicants. Apply online at the APS India portal — it takes 3–4 weeks and costs ~€60.
Key steps
- 1
Get your APS certificate
Apply at the APS India website. Upload your transcripts, IELTS/TOEFL results and degree certificates. APS verifies them and issues a certificate that's valid forever.
- 2
Apply to German universities
Apply via uni-assist or directly — your APS certificate is now mandatory along with your academic transcripts.
- 3
Open a blocked account
Deposit ~€11,904. Fintiba, Expatrio and Coracle are the most popular. ICICI Bank Germany is a regional option.
- 4
Book the visa appointment
VFS Global handles the German visa process in India. Book a slot at the centre nearest you (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bangalore or Kolkata).
- 5
Health insurance and biometrics
Get health insurance confirmation (Mawista/DR-Walter for entry, switch to TK/AOK on arrival). Submit biometrics at the visa appointment.
📄 Documents checklist
⏳ Suggested timeline
| When | What to do |
|---|---|
| 12 months before | Shortlist universities + English-taught programmes |
| 10–11 months before | Take IELTS / TOEFL / TestDaF |
| 8–9 months before | Apply for APS certificate (3–4 weeks) |
| 6–7 months before | Apply to universities (uni-assist / direct) |
| 3–5 months before | Receive admission letter |
| 3 months before | Open blocked account + health insurance |
| 2 months before | Book visa appointment at VFS Global |
| 1 month before | Visa decision; flight; accommodation booked |
💡 Country tips
- 💡Start APS early — the 3–4 week timeline becomes 6+ during admission peak (Aug–Nov).
- 💡VFS slots in metros fill fast — book the moment you have your admission letter.
- 💡Many Indian students bundle their blocked account + insurance with Expatrio's Value Package — it's accepted by the German embassy in India.
- 💡If you have any backlog/re-attempt, attach an honest explanation letter — APS will still verify.