I intend to take a short course (less than 3 months)
In this case, you can apply for a Schengen visa. This visa is limited to a maximum of 3 months. If you want to extend your visa, you must leave Germany and apply for a visa from your home country. This visa is only suitable for students enrolled in short courses.
I plan to pursue an undergraduate / graduate degree
You need to apply for a National Visa. This visa allows you to stay in Germany to work and look for work for a period of 3 months to 1 year, or longer depending on your purpose of stay. In order to fully and accurately apply for a visa, you need to contact the German Embassy in your country for further information.
What documents should I prepare?
In general, a visa application will require a valid passport, financial proof, medical certificate, admission letter or confirmation from your university.
To prove your finances, you need property or income of approximately € 7,908 for the first year or € 659 per month. However, you may be asked to prove more financially than is stated above.
Visa costs are around € 60 for each visa type.
For the most accurate information, you should contact the German Embassy at your residence, or refer to the DAAD visa information package.
