How To Apply For Germany Study Visa
Germany has become an increasingly popular study destination for Nigerian students in recent years. With its world-class universities, low or no tuition fees, and high quality of life, it’s easy to see why. However, navigating the German student visa application process can seem daunting.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the step-by-step process for Nigerian students looking to study in Germany.
Why Study in Germany?
There are many great reasons to consider studying in Germany as a Nigerian student:
Tuition Fees – At public universities in Germany, international students generally don’t pay tuition fees. You’ll only need to pay a small administrative fee each semester of around €150-350 ($170-400 USD).
World-Class Universities – Germany is home to some of the top higher education institutes in the world. Institutions like Technical University of Munich, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, and Heidelberg University are leaders in research and academics.
Gain International Work Experience – With a German student visa, you’re allowed to work for up to 120 full days or 240 half days each year. This allows you to gain valuable work experience in Germany.
Opportunity to Travel Europe – Germany is centrally located in Europe, making it easy and affordable to travel to neighboring countries. You can immerse yourself in European culture.
Post-Study Work Visa – Graduates from German universities may apply for an 18-month job seeker visa, allowing you time to find employment and make the transition from student to professional.
Germany Student Visa Requirements for Nigerians
To be approved for a German student visa as a Nigerian citizen, you’ll need to meet the following requirements:
Acceptance Letter – You must have an unconditional letter of acceptance from a recognized German university.
Proof of Financial Resources – This proves you can support yourself during your studies, through scholarships, parents’ funds, etc. The required amount is generally €10,236 ($11,000 USD) per year.
Health Insurance – You must be covered by German national student health insurance throughout your studies. This costs around €110 per month.
Passport – Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your studies, usually at least 12-18 months.
Biometrics – As part of the visa application, your fingerprints and facial image will be collected at a visa application center.
Step 1: Research Universities and Programs
The first step is researching German universities and degree programs that fit your interests and career goals. Many programs at the Bachelor’s level are taught in German, while Master’s programs are often in English. Use resources like DAAD’s university search tool explore program options. Consider factors like:
Subjects, specializations, and research areas
Degree types – Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
Language of instruction – German or English
Tuition fees and living costs
University ranking and reputation
Location in Germany
Create a shortlist of 3-5 programs that appeal to you. Thoroughly review admissions criteria before applying.
Step 2: Check Application Deadlines
Application deadlines for German universities are generally several months before the semester starts in October or April. Deadlines for international students tend to be even earlier, from January to June for an October enrollment. Verify the application deadline for your chosen programs and plan to submit complete applications well in advance.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application Materials
Each university will have specific admissions requirements, but common application materials include:
Online application form – With personal details, education history, etc.
CV/resume – Outlining academic achievements, publications, honors, skills, etc.
Motivation letter – Statement of purpose explaining your interests and goals.
Certified school documents – Including certificates, transcripts, diplomas, and English translations.
Standardized test scores – IELTS/TOEFL for English proficiency, GRE for graduate studies.
Copy of passport ID page
Evidence of financial resources – Bank statements, scholarship award letters, etc.
Give yourself plenty of time to gather official documentation and prepare any written materials. Have documents certified and translated if needed.
Step 4: Submit University Applications
Once your complete application package is ready, submit your applications through the university portals by the deadlines. Double check that all required documents and information have been attached before submitting. Pay any application fees.
You can apply to multiple universities to increase your chances of admission. Apply well in advance so there is time to get accepted and apply for your study visa.
Step 5: Accept University Admission Offer
Hopefully you will receive admission offers from one or more German universities. Evaluate the programs and accept the offer at your chosen university. Inform other universities that you will not attend so they can offer your spot to another student.
Review details about enrollment confirmation, housing arrangements, course registration, health insurance, etc. provided with your admission offer. Your university will issue required documents for your student visa application.
Step 6: Block a Student Residence Permit Appointment
All student visa applicants in Nigeria must get an appointment to submit their residence permit application at the German Embassy in Abuja or Consulate General in Lagos. Use the following steps to schedule your appointment:
1. Create an account on Telegram using a phone number. This is currently the only way to book appointments.
2. Join the visa appointment bot @GermanMissionsNigeriaBot and follow the prompts to request a study applicant appointment.
3. Select your preferred consulate location, date, and time. Appointments are released 3 months in advance but fill up quickly, so book the earliest slot possible.
4. Pay the visa fee of 61,000 NGN online to block the appointment. Print the payment receipt.
5. Monitor the Telegram bot for updates on your appointment. Reschedule if needed.
Step 7: Obtain Supporting Visa Documents
In addition to regular application materials like passport, university acceptance letter, and financial proof, you’ll need:
Admission fee payment receipt – Proof you paid applicable fees to university
Health insurance documentation – Showing valid coverage in Germany
Flight booking – Copy of round-trip booking to Germany for enrollment
Student apprenticeship contract – If doing an integrated work-study program
Have official German translations made for any documents not issued in English or German.
Step 8: Complete Biometrics Appointment
Attend your booked German visa appointment on time. The following will be completed during your biometrics appointment:
Document check – A visa officer will verify you have all required documents.
Biometric registration – Your fingerprints and facial image will be digitally scanned.
Pay visa issuance fee – 60 EUR payable by bank transfer.
Submit application – Your completed national visa application and documents will be submitted.
Step 9: Wait for Visa Processing
After your appointment, it usually takes around 2-3 months for German Missions in Nigeria to process student visa applications. You can check your application status on the appointment system.
Don’t make any irreversible travel bookings until you have your passport back with the visa affixed inside. The visa will allow you to enter Germany within the issued validity period.
Step 10: Prepare for Your Move to Germany
Once you receive your German student visa, it’s time to start preparing for your big move.
Schedule your flight to arrive 1-2 weeks before classes start
Read up on registering with authorities as a resident when you arrive
Arrange housing through the university or private rentals
Review your course timetable and academic calendar
Join orientation activities and social events to meet fellow students
Familiarize yourself with the university campus, facilities, and surrounding city
Open a German bank account to manage living expenses
Get settled into your accommodation, learn transit systems, scout grocery stores
Buy any last things you need for living/studying in Germany
The visa process may seem long and complex, but the reward is getting to live and study in Germany. With early planning and preparation, Nigerian students can successfully navigate the steps to obtaining their study visa.