Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum)
Prospective students who must apply to or prepare for a German university in country.
The Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) is a German study & graduate visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~€75) and processing time (~6-12 weeks), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) is for
Prospective students who must apply to or prepare for a German university in country.
Converts to a student visa once admission is secured.
Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) - eligibility criteria
- Evidence of intent and basic eligibility to study
- Proof of funds (blocked account)
- Health insurance coverage
- Sufficient language skills for the application/course
- Plan to apply to a recognised institution
Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) (Germany) is ~€75, with an indicative processing time of ~6-12 weeks. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Make it in Germany / BAMF.
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a German consulate abroad |
| Length of stay | Up to 9 months (extendable to attend a preparatory course) |
| Work rights | Limited; mainly preparation and applications |
| Study rights | Application process, language and preparatory (Studienkolleg) courses |
| Government fee | ~€75 |
| Processing time | ~6-12 weeks |
| Route to PR | Converts to a student visa once admission is secured. |
Pathway & next steps
Converts to a student visa once admission is secured.
Many applicants also compare Student · Student Visa (Studienvisum), Language · Language Course Visa (Sprachkursvisum), Ausbildung · Vocational Training Visa (Berufsausbildung). Run a free VisaChief check to see which German route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) pitfalls we fix
Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) cost?
The Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) government fee is ~€75. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Make it in Germany / BAMF before applying.
How long does the Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~6-12 weeks. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum) lead to permanent residence?
Converts to a student visa once admission is secured.
Can I work on the Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum)?
Work rights: Limited; mainly preparation and applications.
Who can apply for the Student Applicant Visa (Studienbewerbervisum)?
Prospective students who must apply to or prepare for a German university in country.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Germany government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Make it in Germany / BAMF - official Germany immigration authority