Applying for a German Student Visa from India: Key Considerations

Securing a student visa in Germany requires gathering and submitting a specific set of documents. To ensure a smooth application process, here’s a breakdown of the important document checklist for a student visa in Germany:

Application Forms:

• Completed and Signed Application Form: Fill out the application form. The form is straightforward, requesting your details like name, date of birth, contact information, marital status, etc.
• Declaration Form: This form requires Indian applicants to provide additional contact and legal representation information.

Passport and Photographs:

• Valid Passport: Your Indian passport should not be more than ten years old and should have at least two blank pages for visa stamping. Its expiry date should be valid for at least a year beyond your application date.
• Biometric Photographs: Three recent (not older than six months) biometric photographs are required. The size should be 35mm (width) x 45mm (height). Your face must be clearly visible, occupying 70-80% of the picture (approximately 32-36mm in height). The background should be neutral (preferably light grey) and free of shadows or patterns.

University Admission and Qualifications:

• Acceptance Letter (Zulassungsbescheid): This official document from your university confirms your successful application and offer of a place in the program. It specifies personal information, university, and program specifics, deadlines for confirming acceptance and semester fee payment, and enrolment steps.
• APS Certificate (mandatory for Indian students): Issued by APS India, this certificate verifies the authenticity of your documents and your eligibility for studying in Germany. Note that some Indian applicants may be exempt from this requirement. 

APS India Application Process

The application process for an APS Certificate involves several key steps:

1. Online Registration:

• Visit the APS India website (https://aps-india.de/) and register online.

2. Application Form:

• Complete the application form online, ensuring all information is accurate.
• Print the completed form and sign it. Only complete or accurate applications will be accepted.

3. Application Fee:

• Pay the non-refundable APS verification fee of INR 18,000 to the designated APS bank account.

4. Document Submission:

• Compile the required documents, including the signed application form.
• All documents must be clear, coloured photocopies on A4-sized paper.
• Ensure both sides of all original documents are photocopied. Do not send original documents.
• Submit the complete application package via courier or in person at the APS India reception desk.
• Retain your courier tracking details for reference.

5. Document Verification:

• APS India will verify the submitted documents. Only complete applications will be processed.

6. Interview (For Undergraduate Applicants):

• Undergraduate students applying for an APS Certificate may be required to attend an interview.
• You will be notified by phone or email 10-14 days before the interview, and the date must remain the same.
• The interview will be conducted in English and/or German and will last approximately 20 minutes. It will focus on your academic background and achievements in India.

7. Application Outcome:

• Within five days of your interview, your online profile will be updated with the verification result.
• Successful applicants will receive five original APS certificates via courier within two weeks.

Students who do not need to present an APS certificate:

• If you obtain a non-German degree
• If you have a foreign degree that is not Indian (e.g., British degree, Turkish degree, etc.)
• If you intend to do a PhD / PostDoc in Germany
• If you have an international Indian degree (e.g., International Baccalaureate)
• If you receive a stipend from public funds (EU or German funds)

Motivation and Background Documents:

• Statement of Purpose/Letter of Motivation: This crucial document demonstrates your reasons for studying in Germany, your selection of the specific program, and why you deserve the opportunity. It’s your chance to convince the visa authorities of your motivation and suitability.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): Provide details of your academic background, work experience (including internships), extracurricular activities, and skills.

Financial Proof:

• Proof of Financial Resources: You’ll need to show your ability to cover living expenses in Germany (currently set at €934 per month or €11,208 per year). This proof can be presented in various ways, including:
  • Blocked Account (Sperrkonto): A special account opened in Germany before your arrival, holding the minimum required funds for your stay.
  • Declaration of Commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung): A document signed by a German resident guaranteeing financial support during your studies.
  • Scholarship: A full German or EU public institution scholarship covers your living expenses.

Additional Documents for Student Visa In Germany:

• Past Academic Certificates: Copies of your Bachelor’s degree, secondary school diploma, or relevant qualifications.
• Preliminary Health Insurance: Proof of health insurance covering the first three months (€ 30,000) in Germany. You’ll need to obtain a local German health insurance plan for the rest of your stay.
• Proof of Language Skills: Certificates like TOEFL or IELTS: 5-6.5 (for English-taught programs), Goethe-Institut, or ÖSD (for German-taught programs) may be required.

Payment:

• Demand Draft: Prepare a demand draft for the visa fee, payable at the time of your interview. This fee is non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.