The procedure for applying for a study visa for Germany may vary slightly for different Indian students, depending on their location within India and their academic objectives. For example, some Indian students may need to apply directly through the German Embassy/Consulates in India, while others may apply via VFS Visa Application Centre in India. With this context in mind, let's outline the TEN steps that Indian students must follow to obtain a German student visa.
1. Determine whether you need to apply directly through the German Embassy/Consulate in India or via the VFS.
For instance, if you fall under the jurisdiction of the German Embassy in New Delhi or the German Consulates in Mumbai, Chennai, or Bangalore, and you possess an unconditional letter of admission from a German Master's (Doctoral, Post-Doc) program or have a scholarship from a German institution, then you should apply via the VFS.
2. Identify the German Embassy/Consulate or the VFS Visa Application Centre in India responsible for processing your German student visa application.
The residence of prospective Indian students plays a crucial role in determining where they should apply for a German student visa. Below, you can find which German Embassy/Consulate in India is responsible for processing your student visa application based on your location.
Your Location in India
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German Mission in India responsible for your application
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Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and the Union Territories of Chandigarh, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Minicoy and Amindive
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Maharashta, the Union States of Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Union Territories of Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli
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West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura
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Karnatak and Kerala
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Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Union Territory of Puducherry
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3. Gather the necessary documents
Aside from the details provided here, acquaint yourself with all requirements by following these steps: visit the website of the German Missions in India, navigate to "Services," then "Visa Information," proceed to the "German National Visa" section, and select the "Checklist for Student Visa" category.
4. Schedule the appointment
Depending on individual circumstances (primarily residence and academic background), Indian students must schedule an appointment for their German student visa application at one of the following locations: German Embassy in New Delhi, German Consulate in Mumbai, German Consulate in Kolkata, German Consulate in Bangalore, German Consulate in Chennai, or one of the Visa Application Centres in India.
Typically, Indian students can book appointments either online or by phone. Interestingly, whether documents need to be submitted at the New Delhi Embassy, one of the German consulates, or Visa Application Centres in India, appointments must be booked through the VFS in any case.
Location in India
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How to Book?
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German Embassy in India
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Via phone (022-67866013)
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German Consulate in Mumbai
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Via phone (022-67866013)
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German Consulate in Kolkata
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N/A
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German Consulate in Bangalore
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Via phone (022-67866013)
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German Consulate in Chennai
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Via phone (022-67866013)
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Visa Application Centres in India
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N/A
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5. Attend the appointment at the Embassy, Consulate, or Visa Centre
Ensure you arrive at least 15 minutes early for your appointment. Missing the appointment could delay your application process, jeopardising your chances of timely arrival in Germany.
Remember, if you fail to attend your scheduled appointment, you'll need to wait at least 24 hours from the original date to reschedule.
6. Submit all required documents
Ensure none are overlooked, as missing documents could lead to application rejection. Arrange them according to the checklist provided by the relevant German Embassy/Consulate in India, and refrain from stapling them together.
7. Participate in the interview (if visiting the Embassy/Consulate)
Expect the interview to last 10-15 minutes. During the German student visa interview, Indian students should articulate why they chose the specific study program and how it aligns with their future goals. Drawing upon information from the CV and SOP/LOM during the interview can strengthen your arguments.
8. Pay the German student visa processing fee for Indians
9. Await the outcome (approval or rejection) & Collect your passport and visa.
Suggested: Brief Breakdown of the Higher Education System in Germany