How to get a German Student Visa?

Studely
June 24, 2026

studying in Germany , obtaining astudent visa is an essential step. To be eligible, you must already be admitted to a recognized higher education institution in Germany. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about the

German student visa , including eligibility requirements, documents to provide, deadlines, and tips for a successful application.What is the German student visa?

The

German student visa , officially calledVisum zu Studienzwecken , is aType D national visa which allows non-EU and non-EEA nationals to enter Germany to pursue studies at a recognized institution. This visa is generally issued for:

  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD programs;
  • preparatory courses (Studienkolleg);
  • German language courses intended to prepare for university admission;
  • pre-admission stays when the student has conditional admission.

Who needs a student visa for Germany?

You will need a student visa if:

  • you are a national of a country outside the European Union or EEA;
  • you plan to stay for more than 90 days in Germany ;
  • you have been admitted to a university, language course, or Studienkolleg.

Students from India, Nigeria, Morocco, China, and many other countries must obtain a visa before arriving in Germany.

The different types of German student visas

1. The student applicant visa (Visum zur Studienbewerbung)

This visa is for students who have not yet received their final admission and wish to travel to Germany to take entrance exams or finalize their application process.

It does not permit you to begin your studies and must be converted into a student visa after obtaining admission.

2. The German student visa (Visum zu Studienzwecken)

This is the most common visa. It is intended for students who have already received an admission letter from a German university.

Once you arrive in Germany, this visa must be converted into a residence permit.

3. The language course visa

This visa is for students attending a German language course that is not part of a university program.

Its duration typically ranges between 3 and 12 months and it cannot be converted into a student visa.

Requirements for obtaining a German student visa

1. Proof of university admission

You must present an official admission letter from a German university, higher education institution, or a Studienkolleg recognized.

2. Proof of sufficient financial resources

To finance your stay in Germany, you must:

  • open a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with at least €11,208 ;
  • or present a scholarship certificate;
  • or provide a declaration of commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung) from a guarantor residing in Germany.

The majority of students choose the Studely blocked account to meet this requirement.

3. Have a valid passport

Your passport must:

  • be valid for the entire duration of your stay;
  • have at least two blank pages;
  • have been issued within the last 10 years.

4. Have health insurance

You must provide proof of student health insurance for Germany.

Some of the most well-known providers include:

The minimum required coverage is €30,000.

5. Complete the visa application form

You will need to complete the official form for the national D-type visa.

6. Provide a cover letter

This letter must explain:

  • why you wish to study in Germany;
  • your academic and professional goals;
  • the reasons for choosing your university and program.

7. Submit your degrees and transcripts

You will need to provide:

  • your previous degrees;
  • your transcripts;
  • your language certificates if necessary.

8. Demonstrate your language proficiency

Depending on your program:

For programs taught in German:

For English language courses:

9. Provide biometric photos

Two recent passport-sized photos compliant with German embassy standards are required.

10. Pay the visa fees

The application fees are generally:

  • €75 for adults.

The payment method depends on the consulate or embassy.

Commonly requested documents

Here is a list of the most frequently required documents:

  • valid passport;
  • national visa application form;
  • two biometric photos;
  • admission letter;
  • proof of financial resources (blocked account or equivalent);
  • proof of health insurance;
  • transcripts and diplomas;
  • proof of language proficiency;
  • CV and cover letter;
  • APS certificate (mandatory for certain countries like India, China, or Vietnam);
  • proof of visa fee payment.

Important: always check your embassy's requirements

The required documents may vary slightly depending on your country of residence. It is therefore highly recommended to consult the official website of the German embassy or consulate in your country before submitting your application.

By carefully preparing your application and opening your Studely blocked account, you'll maximize your chances of obtaining your German student visa and starting your studies in Germany with peace of mind.

Studely
June 24, 2026