Follow these 11 essential steps to begin your educational journey in Germany
Choose a course that matches your background (Bachelor's or Master's). Look for public universities (mostly free tuition) or private ones (paid). Use: https://www.daad.de – for official university & scholarship info, https://www.study-in-germany.de
Common requirements: 13 years of education for Bachelor's (e.g. 10+2 + 1-year Studienkolleg or equivalent), Bachelor's degree (16 years) for Master's, Minimum 2.5 GPA (varies), English or German language proficiency.
If your course is in English, submit: IELTS: Minimum 6.0 or 6.5, TOEFL iBT or PTE also accepted. If course is in German, submit: A1 to C1 level Goethe Certificate or TestDaF, DSH.
Apply directly on university websites or via UniAssist portal (https://www.uni-assist.de). Required documents: Academic transcripts & certificates (10+2, Bachelor's), Passport copy, IELTS/TOEFL or German language certificate, SOP / Motivation Letter, CV (Europass format), LORs (Letter of Recommendation – 1 or 2).
You'll get either a conditional or final admission letter. Some universities issue conditional offers if documents are pending.
Mandatory for visa. Deposit: €11,208 (as of 2025) for 1 year living cost. Open at banks like: Fintiba, Expatrio, Deutsche Bank. Takes about 7–14 days to confirm.
Choose travel health insurance (initial) and student health insurance (after arrival). Private options: Mawista, DR-WALTER. Public options: TK, AOK (after enrolment).
Book a student visa appointment at https://videx.diplo.de. Documents needed: Visa Application Form (via Videx), Valid Passport, University admission letter, Blocked account proof, Academic documents, Language certificate (IELTS/Goethe), Motivation Letter, Proof of insurance, Biometric photo, Cover letter. Visa Fee: €75 (in NPR).
Be honest and confident in the interview. Common questions: Why Germany? Why this course/university? Future plans? Who is funding your education?
Processing time: 4–8 weeks (sometimes more). You will receive a visa for 90 days (to enter Germany), and then extend to student residence permit after arrival.
Book your flight. Carry: Passport + Visa, University admission letter, Blocked account confirmation, Insurance documents. After arrival: Register your address, Open local bank account, Get residence permit, Enrol at university.
