How to get a student visa in Germany

1. Student Visa (Visum zu Studienzwecken)  

If you’re from a country whose citizens need a visa to enter Germany, you’ll need to apply for a student visa if you’re planning to study there. The same applies if you’re from a visa-exempt country but your programme lasts more than 90 days.  

To apply, you’ll generally need an offer from a recognised higher education institution, proof that you can cover your living costs, and evidence of the required language proficiency. This visa allows full-time study and can be converted into a residence permit after arrival. 

2. Student Applicant Visa (Visum zur Studienbewerbung)  

If you’ve applied to a German university or preparatory course but haven’t received final admission yet, you may be able to apply for a student applicant visa. This is for students who have a realistic chance of being accepted but still need to complete requirements such as an entrance exam or interview. 

The visa is initially valid for three months and can be extended for up to six more months while you complete the admission process. Once you’re accepted, you can switch to a student residence permit. It allows you to complete the requirements for admission, but it does not give you the right to work. If you’re not admitted, you generally cannot stay beyond the nine-month maximum. 

3. Language Course Visa  

If you’re coming to Germany for an intensive German language course, you may need a language acquisition visa. The course must involve at least 18 lessons per week and can last for up to 12 months. 

The visa allows you to live and study in Germany and work part-time for up to 20 hours a week. It’s specifically for language learning, not preparatory courses for university or vocational training.  

4. Training/Internship Visa 

If you want to complete vocational training or certain internships in Germany, you may need a training visa. Vocational training can be company-based, where you work and study while earning a salary, or school-based, where you mainly study at a vocational school and usually don’t receive a salary. 

Once you complete your training, you may be able to extend your stay to look for work or continue working with your employer, subject to the relevant residence requirements. 

Language tests 

Germany doesn't have a universal language requirement for obtaining a student visa. However, you'll still need to meet the language requirements if your chosen university and degree programme specifically asks for it.  

If you're applying for a programme taught in German, you will usually need to provide proof of your German language proficiency. While requirements vary by institution, many universities expect applicants to have a minimum level of B2, with some courses requiring an even higher level. 

Commonly accepted German language qualifications include: 

• TestDaF 
• DSH (German Language Examination for University Entrance) 
• telc Deutsch C1 Hochschule 
• Deutsches Sprachdiplom II (DSD II) 
• Goethe-Zertifikat C2 

The exact certificate accepted will depend on your university and course, so it's important to check the admission requirements before applying. 

If you plan to take a German language test before travelling, you can do so through one of the many Goethe-Institut centres located around the world. 

Minimum fund 

You’ll need to show that you have at least €11,904 available to cover your living costs, giving you access to up to €992 per month. You’ll also need to have enough funds to cover your tuition fees and other study-related costs, which will vary depending on your university and programme. 

Medical tests 

There is no standard medical examination or set of medical tests required for every German student visa applicant. However, you will need to provide proof of valid health insurance covering your stay in Germany. Your local German embassy or consulate may request additional documents depending on your circumstances, so check its latest requirements before applying. 

Entrance exams 

Some German universities or programmes may require an entrance exam as part of the admissions process. Requirements vary by institution and course, so check with your chosen university to see whether an exam is required and how to prepare. 

• A valid passport and a copy of your passport’s personal details page 
• A recent biometric passport photo, taken within the last six months 
• Completed and signed visa application forms and declarations 
• Your university admission letter or proof of acceptance 
• Your higher secondary school certificate and academic transcripts 
• Certificates and transcripts from any previous university studies 
• A scholarship or PhD confirmation letter, if applicable 
• A letter explaining your motivation for studying in Germany 
• Your CV 
• Proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS or TOEFL, if required for your programme 
• Proof of German language proficiency for German-taught programmes. A B1-level certificate with a good result or higher is generally recommended. 
• Proof that you can cover your living and study costs, such as a scholarship confirmation or a formal sponsorship declaration from a sponsor living in Germany 
• Valid travel health insurance

1. Check your visa requirements depending on your country 
2. Get your documents ready 
3. Create an account on Germany’s Consular Services Portal and submit your visa application online. 
4. Complete the document check 
5. Attend your visa appointment where you will have to submit your biometrics and pay the visa fee. 
6. Wait for a decision 
7. Once approved, you can make your travel arrangements and head to Germany. 
8. Apply for your residence permit in Germany before your entry visa expires. 

Can 

• Work part-time for up to 140 full days or 280 half-days per year while studying.  
• Work up to 20 hours per week during the lecture period.  
• Extend your residence permit if you need more time to complete your degree, subject to the relevant requirements.  
• Apply for a residence permit to look for qualified employment after graduation, usually allowing you to stay for up to 18 months.  
• Travel within the Schengen Area for short stays, subject to the applicable rules. 

Cannot 

• Work without limits beyond the permitted student work allowance.  
• Stay in Germany indefinitely after completing your degree without switching to another residence status.  
• Use your student residence permit primarily for purposes other than studying.