For admission to a state-recognised higher-education institution, including approved preparatory study; standalone language study and Ausbildung use different categories.
Route overview
Admission letter + blocked funds
Typical timeline / duration: Study residence normally starts at two years and may be renewed; the entry visa's own validity is separate.
Important notes
Obtain admission to a state-recognised higher-education institution; language or preparatory measures must fit the approved study category.
For admitted study, the 2026 reference is €11,904/year (€992/month), normally via blocked funds, accepted scholarship or declaration of commitment.
Meet the programme's language requirement and provide passport, insurance, admission and the handling mission's documents.
Apply for the appropriate entry visa where required, then complete local registration and the study-residence process.
Seeking a university place is a separate category: up to nine months and €1,091/month in 2026. That figure must not replace the admitted-student €992/month requirement.
The official study guidance lists up to 140 full or 280 half working days annually, or 20 hours weekly, with separate student-job provisions; follow the conditions on the granted status.
After successful graduation, a separate job-search residence application may allow up to 18 months; this is not an automatic extension for every departing student.
Preparation checklist
Confirm the institution's admission and whether any preparatory study is part of the approved programme.
Prepare the required course-language evidence and qualification documents.
Arrange study funds using the admitted-student amount rather than the university-place-search amount.
Complete insurance and the visa file, then book the required appointment.
After entry, register locally and note the study permit and any later graduate job-search application deadlines.