Study in Germany
FAQ

For the 2025/2026 academic year, the required amount for a German student visa is 11,904 EUR for the first year (approximately 992 EUR per month). This amount is adjusted periodically by the German government to reflect the rising cost of living. You can open a blocked account through providers like Expatrio or Fintiba.

Yes. If you have a full scholarship (such as DAAD), you can submit the award letter as proof of financial resources instead of a blocked account. If the scholarship covers less than 992 EUR/month, you must top up the difference in a blocked account.

If you are an applicant from India, China, or Vietnam, an APS (Akademische Pruefstelle) certificate is mandatory. This document verifies your academic credentials and must be obtained before applying for your student visa. The APS process includes document verification and, in some cases, an interview. Start the process early as it can take several weeks.

Germany has two main intakes: (1) Winter Semester (starts October): Application deadlines usually fall between May and July 15. This is the main intake with the widest selection of programmes. (2) Summer Semester (starts April): Application deadlines usually fall between December and January 15. Fewer programmes are available for this intake. Some competitive universities like TU Munich, LMU Munich, and RWTH Aachen may have earlier deadlines.

Typically you need: academic transcripts, degree certificates, language proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL or TestDaF/DSH), CV/resume, Statement of Purpose (motivation letter), Letters of Recommendation (1-2), a valid passport, and an APS certificate if you are from India, China, or Vietnam. Some programmes may also require a GRE/GMAT score or a portfolio.

Yes, but only under certain conditions: (1) The programme is taught in German, in which case you need TestDaF or DSH instead. (2) You provide a Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate proving your previous degree was taught entirely in English. This is accepted by some, but not all, universities. (3) You are a native English speaker from a recognised English-speaking country. Always check each university's specific language requirements.

While not always required for admission to English-taught programmes, many universities recommend or require at least a basic A1 level for visa purposes and daily life. Learning German significantly improves your chances of finding part-time jobs, internships, and integrating into German society. Some cities and smaller towns have limited English-speaking environments.

For English-taught programmes, you typically need IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+. For German-taught programmes, you need DSH-2 or TestDaF 4x4. Many programmes accept both languages. Some universities also accept Cambridge C1 Advanced or Duolingo English Test.

Non-EU students are allowed to work 140 full days or 280 half days per year (as per the 2024 regulations, increased from the previous 120/240 rule). During the semester, this works out to roughly 20 hours per week. Working student (Werkstudent) positions are widely available and often pay 13-18 EUR/hour depending on the field and city.

After completing your degree, you can extend your residence permit for up to 18 months to look for a job related to your field of study. During this job-search period, you are allowed to work without restrictions. Once you find a qualifying job, you can switch to an EU Blue Card or a regular work permit.

The German student visa processing typically takes 6-12 weeks from the date of your appointment at the embassy or consulate. Processing times vary by country and season. We recommend applying at least 3 months before your intended travel date and booking your visa appointment as early as possible.

Yes. Health insurance is mandatory in Germany and you cannot enrol at a university without proof of coverage. Students under 30 can opt for affordable public health insurance (such as TK or AOK) at around 110-120 EUR/month. Students over 30 or those in preparatory courses (Studienkolleg) typically need private health insurance. You must have valid insurance from your very first day in Germany.