Visa & Application Process
From choosing a course to getting your residence permit — here's the complete journey to studying in Germany, step by step.
The 8-step journey
- 1
Choose a course & university
Pick an accredited public university and a programme taught in English or German. Check admission requirements, intake (winter intake starts ~October, summer ~April) and application deadlines on the official site or DAAD.
- 2
Meet language & academic requirements
For English-taught programmes you usually need IELTS 6.5 / TOEFL 90. For German-taught programmes you need TestDaF or DSH at B2/C1 level. Some countries (e.g. India, China, Vietnam) also need an APS certificate.
- 3
Apply & get admission
Apply directly to the university or via uni-assist. Once accepted, you'll receive an official admission letter (Zulassungsbescheid) — the key document for your visa.
- 4
Open a blocked account
Prove you can support yourself by depositing the required amount in a blocked account (Sperrkonto). You can then withdraw a fixed amount each month after arriving.
- 5
Get health insurance
You must have valid health insurance to study. Most students take German public health insurance (~€120/month); some use approved private/travel insurance for the initial period.
- 6
Apply for the student visa
Book an appointment at the German embassy/consulate and apply for a national (D-type) student visa with your admission letter, blocked account proof, insurance and other documents.
- 7
Travel & register (Anmeldung)
After arriving, register your address at the local citizens' office (Bürgeramt) within two weeks. This 'Anmeldung' is needed for almost everything else.
- 8
Get your residence permit
Convert your entry visa into a residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) at the local immigration office (Ausländerbehörde) for the full duration of your studies.
💳 Blocked account (Sperrkonto)
As of 2025 you must show roughly €11,904 for one year (≈ €992/month). This figure is reviewed yearly by the German government and tends to rise — always check the current amount.
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📄 Documents checklist
Frequently asked questions
Is studying in Germany really free?+
At public universities, yes — there are no tuition fees in most states. The exception is Baden-Württemberg, which charges non-EU students €1,500 per semester. Everyone pays a small semester contribution (about €100–€380) that often includes a transport ticket.
Do I need to know German?+
Not for English-taught programmes, of which there are thousands at master's level. However, learning German (at least A2–B1) hugely improves daily life, part-time job options and your chances of staying after graduation.
How much money do I need?+
Plan for roughly €11,900 per year for the blocked account, plus visa, insurance and travel costs. Monthly living costs range from about €850 (Leipzig) to €1,400 (Munich).
Can I work while studying?+
Yes. Non-EU students can work up to 140 full days (or 280 half days) per year. Part-time and working-student jobs are common and help cover living costs.
Can I stay after I graduate?+
Yes. Graduates can apply for an 18-month residence permit to find a qualified job, which can then lead to an EU Blue Card and permanent residence.
What is an APS certificate?+
The APS (Akademische Prüfstelle) verifies your academic documents and is mandatory for applicants from countries such as India, China and Vietnam before applying for admission and a visa.
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Pakistan country guide
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India country guide
APS certificate (mandatory since 2022), VFS Global, and India-specific tips.