Get your german student visa in 6 months

In this blog, I will tell you how you can get a German student visa if you want to do your graduation from Germany.

Learn German

If your academic aspirations lead you to Germany for graduation, mastering the German language is a crucial step toward a fulfilling journey. It’s strongly advised to attain a proficiency level of at least B1 in German, but striving for B2 is the ideal goal. Having a solid grasp of German, especially at a B2 level, can significantly ease the challenges of entrance exams(or Aufnahme) and classroom interactions.

Additionally, you’ll be required to successfully complete an examination conducted by the Goethe Institute, a prestigious institution known for evaluating German language proficiency. This exam evaluates your understanding, speaking, reading, and writing abilities in German, providing an essential benchmark.

When you pass this examination, the Goethe Institute awards you a certificate that displays your level of German language expertise. This certificate is more than just a piece of paper; it’s a formal validation of your language abilities, showcasing your competence not only to educational institutions but also to the German embassy.

How to learn German

• Free Language Learning Resources: If you’re an absolute beginner and prefer not to invest a lot initially, Duolingo app{link} and the DeutscheWelle {link} website are excellent starting points for learning German. They offer comprehensive learning modules and can serve as a foundation for your German language journey.
• German Language Institutes: Throughout India, you’ll find Goethe Institutes dedicated to teaching German. However, they can be a bit costly and time-consuming. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Language Pantheon, a language institute in Delhi, provides quality language courses, including online options. If feasible, studying in Delhi can be a great choice.
• Self-Directed Practice: Remarkably, some individuals have successfully learned German without formal language institute training. This path demands discipline, patience, and consistent practice. Dedicate time daily to practice at home, expand your vocabulary, and immerse yourself in German by reading articles or other materials. Integrate the German language into your daily routine wherever possible, reinforcing your learning and fluency.
• Immersive Learning: Consider surrounding yourself with the German language as much as possible. Watch German films, listen to German podcasts, and try to think or narrate your daily activities in German. Immersion accelerates your understanding and comfort with the language.

Get yourself an APS certificate

The APS certificate is extremely important for obtaining a student visa to study in Germany as a foreign student. Some key points about its importance:

• It is a mandatory prerequisite and requirement for applying for the student visa. Without the APS certificate, the visa application will not be considered.
• The APS certificate acts as proof that the foreign academic qualifications and documents being submitted have been verified and authenticated by a recognized authority in India. This gives credibility and legitimacy to the documents for German authorities.
• It establishes and confirms that the foreign academic qualifications meet the basic eligibility criteria and entry requirements that German universities expect from international students. This helps ensure the student will be able to pursue their intended course of study.
• Exceptions are only for students who have secured official funding or scholarships from German or EU organizations. For all other self-funded students, the APS certificate is compulsory.
• The process of applying for and obtaining the APS certificate needs to be started in advance. It involves submitting documents and in some cases, test scores. Not having the APS certificate ready could delay the entire visa application timeline.

So in summary, the APS certificate plays a crucial role in the student visa process by acting as proof of credentials, meeting eligibility norms, and being a mandatory part of the visa application. It is important to apply for it on time to avoid delays in securing the visa.

Apply to German Universities

Here are the steps to apply for a bachelor’s course in Germany:

• Research programs and universities on official websites like daad.de. This is the best place to find accredited programs taught in English.
• Check individual university websites for admission requirements, deadlines, and application process which usually involves submitting certificates, statement of purpose, language proof etc.
• Applications are typically done online directly through the university portal.
• You may have to send the copies of your documents to the universities through post, depending on the university.

Studienkollegs:

• Studienkollegs are 1 year language and foundation courses for those who don’t meet direct university admission standards.
• They help international students gain proficiency in German and knowledge required to pursue undergraduate degrees.
• Upon successful completion of Studienkolleg, students receive a university entrance qualification.

Bypassing Studienkolleg:

• Students who have a high school diploma considered equivalent to German Abitur by the university can directly apply to bachelor’s programs without Studienkolleg.
• They must prove German language proficiency, usually B2 level on the CEF scale. Some unis accept IELTS or TOEFL scores instead.

Advantages of bypassing: Save 1 year, start degree earlier.

Disadvantages: Meeting the higher admission standards is difficult for some. Studienkolleg provides German language and culture immersion.

Bypassing Studienkollegs may not be suitable for all students. Studienkolleg ensures proper preparation and qualification.

Apply for a Visa

Here are the steps to apply for a student visa for a bachelor’s program in Germany if you have an APS certificate and know German:

Prerequisites:

• Admission letter from a German university
• Completely filled VIDEX form (how to fill a VIDEX form)
• Cover letter (how to write a cover letter)
• Letter of Motivation (how to write a letter of motivation)
• APS certificate
• Your academic certificates
• Proof of German language skills (at least B1 level)
• Valid passport
• Health insurance for Germany
• Proof of financial funds for cost of living
• Biometric passport photos
• CV

Application process through VFS:

1. Register and book an appointment online with VFS Global, which processes German visa applications for your country.
2. Fill the online visa application form.
3. Pay the visa fee.
4. Attend the appointment at the VFS visa application center with originals of uploaded documents. Biometric fingerprints and photo will be taken.
5. The application is forwarded to the German embassy/consulate for review.
6. Expect a decision within 2-4 weeks. You’ll be notified by email.
7. If approved, collect your passport with visa from VFS. The visa will mention date by which you must enter Germany.

Obtaining a student visa for Germany takes careful planning and preparation. One must work diligently to meet all the prerequisites like learning German, acquiring the necessary academic documents and qualifications. It is crucial to start the visa application process early to avoid delays. With diligence and perseverance and by following the correct process, many students are successfully able to secure visas and enroll in excellent German universities each year.