How to Apply for a German Student Visa: A Guide
Germany has been recognized as the number one country for studying abroad for international students. Numerous international students visit Germany after completing their school or pre-university education. There are several universities in Germany, which rank high in the world, and studying where paves the way for a bright future for international students.
But, before coming to Germany, overseas students need to make some prior arrangements among which a major one is the student visa. So, here, we will provide you a guide on how to apply for a German student visa.
Requirements to Apply for a German Student Visa
You need to fulfill certain requirements to apply for a German student visa. You will read about the general requirements in this section; however, there may be some differences in the case of some countries.
The first thing is that you must have an admission letter from a preparatory school or a German university. You need to submit that letter or its copy at the time of applying for a German visa. Besides, you should have sufficient funds so that you can cover your stay in Germany such as a sponsor, a scholarship, a blocked account, or parents’ financial support. You need to present the evidence of your financial support to the visa office.
Another necessary thing that you should have is a student health insurance policy. You can buy this policy with the help of some online sources. Some online accommodation platforms, which help students find accommodation in Germany, also help them purchase a good student health insurance policy.
Additionally, you should also have a valid national passport to apply for a German student visa. The two recently taken biometric portrait photographs are also needed. Furthermore, you also need to present proof of admission at a German educational institute. Proof of German proficiency is also needed in most cases. Similarly, you also required proof of English proficiency to apply for a student visa to Germany.
Curriculum vitae is also needed accompanied with the proofs of previous internships and experiences if any. A motivational letter where you have expressed the reason why you have chosen a specific university or study program is also required to be submitted to apply for a German student visa. You should also mention your plans and how this education is going to pave the way for your career and improve your life.
Two duly completed national visa application forms are obviously the most prominent requirements. You also need to present the evidence that you have paid the German student visa application fee.
Where to Apply for a German Student Visa and the Further Procedure
The German Embassy of a Consulate in your country is a place where you should apply for a German student visa. You are required to schedule an appointment for a visa interview. Visa application documents are required to be offered on the day of the interview. The interview questions are required to be answered by you, which are asked by the consular officer.
When Should You Apply for a German Student Visa?
You should apply for a German student visa as soon as possible and at least three months before you move to Germany. It is recommended to apply for the student visa immediately after receiving your acceptance letter from your university.
Additional Recommendation: Find and Book Student Accommodation Early
However, proof of accommodation is not mentioned as a requirement in student visa guidelines but sometimes it may be asked. So, it is advised to search for and book accommodation in Germany early.
Even if you are not asked for proof of accommodation for your student visa then also you get it beneficial to find accommodation in Germany early. First of all, the prices of accommodation increase as the time of your university session comes closer so you can get accommodation within your budget by searching early. Besides, if you search for accommodation late in the nick of time, you may find many of the accommodations already filled which are as per your requirements and preferences. But, an early search may provide you your desired accommodation.
You can search for accommodations in Germany with the help of some online accommodation service platforms, which provide lists of accommodations in different cities in Germany or the world with the details of the accommodations. On these platforms, you can find accommodation in Germany, student accommodation Darmstadt, accommodation in Hamburg, housing in Frankfurt, housing in Munich, and accommodation in many other cities in Germany.
In student housing properties in Germany, you find various high-end and basic amenities. You can find study tables and chairs, study rooms, Wi-Fi internet connections, gyms, televisions, laundries, shuttle services, parking spaces, CCTV cameras, 24/7 security teams, etc. in properties. Social events are also organized in many student housing properties in Germany.
