Germany is one of the best destinations in the world for higher education — no tuition fees at most public universities, world-class research, and one of the highest graduate employment rates in Europe. For Indian students, it has become the top destination after the USA, UK and Canada.

But the process can feel complicated. This guide breaks down every single step you need to take — from choosing a university to landing in Germany.

Step 1 — Choose Your Course and University

Germany has over 400 universities. The most important factor is whether your chosen course is taught in German or English. Most Bachelor programmes are in German. Most Master programmes have English-taught options.

  • Use uni-assist.de and daad.de to search for programmes
  • Check if your Bachelor degree is recognised (Anabin database)
  • Deadlines: Winter semester (October start) — apply by July 15. Summer semester (April start) — apply by January 15

Step 2 — German Language Requirements

This is the most critical step. Most German-taught programmes require:

Programme Type German Level Required Accepted Certificates
Bachelor (German) B2 or C1 Goethe B2/C1, TestDaF, DSH
Master (German) B2 Goethe B2, TestDaF 3+
Master (English) B1 sometimes Goethe B1 (basic German useful)
Studienkolleg B1 minimum Goethe B1
Important: Start learning German at least 12–18 months before your intended start date. Reaching B2 level takes most students 12–16 months from zero.

Step 3 — APS Certificate (India)

Since 2022, Indian students applying to German universities are required to get an APS (Academic Evaluation Centre) certificate. This verifies that your Indian academic documents are genuine. The process takes 4–6 weeks. Apply at the APS office in Delhi, Mumbai, or Chennai.

Step 4 — Apply to University

  • Most applications go through uni-assist (central platform) — fee: €75 for first university, €30 for each additional
  • Some universities have direct applications via their own portals
  • Documents needed: transcripts, degree certificates, APS certificate, language certificate, statement of purpose, CV, letters of recommendation

Step 5 — Blocked Account

To get a German student visa, you must show you can fund yourself. You need a blocked account (Sperrkonto) with at least €11,904 (as of 2026 — €992 per month × 12).

  • Providers: Fintiba, Expatrio, Deutsche Bank
  • Process takes 2–3 weeks — start early
  • The money is released monthly once you are in Germany

Step 6 — Student Visa Application

  • Apply at the German Embassy or Consulate in India (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad)
  • Processing time: 6–12 weeks — apply as early as possible
  • Documents: admission letter, APS certificate, language certificate, blocked account proof, health insurance, passport photos

Cost of Living in Germany for Students

Expense Monthly Cost (approx)
Accommodation (shared flat) €350–€600
Food & groceries €150–€250
Transport (semester ticket) €30–€60
Health insurance €110–€120
Miscellaneous €100–€150
Total €750–€1,200/month
At German With Deep, we help students with the complete language preparation from A1 to B2/C1 — and Deep Dey personally guides students on the Germany/Austria/Switzerland application process based on hands-on experience helping 100+ students go abroad.
Study in Germany Germany Student Visa APS Certificate German Universities Indian Students Germany