18b Visa to Germany for Indian Students: Complete 2025 Guide

The §18b visa (Section 18b of the German Residence Act) is a game-changing opportunity for Indian students who want to study in Germany but haven’t secured university admission yet. Also known as the “Higher Education Entrance Qualification Recognition Visa” or colloquially as the “Study Preparation Visa,” it allows you to come to Germany for up to 9 months to prepare for university admission. At Shashwat German School in Bardoli, we help Indian students prepare for studying in Germany, and the §18b visa is one of the most underutilized but valuable pathways available. Here’s everything you need to know.

What Is the §18b Visa?

Legal Foundation and Purpose

Official Name: Residence permit for the purpose of recognizing foreign higher education entrance qualifications (§18b Aufenthaltsgesetz)

Purpose: The §18b visa allows international students who need to prepare for German university admission to:

  • Take preparatory courses in Germany
  • Attend Studienkolleg (preparatory college)
  • Improve German language skills to required level
  • Take entrance examinations (TestDaF, DSH, etc.)
  • Apply to German universities from within Germany
  • Participate in assessment procedures

Key Difference from Student Visa:

  • Student visa (§16b): For students with university admission
  • §18b visa: For students preparing to obtain admission
  • §18b comes BEFORE student visa in the pathway

Who Is the §18b Visa For?

Ideal Candidates:

1. Students with Recognized Indian Qualifications:

  • Completed 12th standard from recognized Indian board
  • Hold bachelor’s degree seeking master’s admission
  • Qualifications recognized by German universities
  • Need preparation before formal admission

2. Students Needing German Language Improvement:

  • Have basic German (A1-A2) but need B2-C1 for admission
  • Want to attend intensive German courses in Germany
  • Preparing for TestDaF or DSH exams
  • Cannot achieve required level while in India

3. Students Seeking Studienkolleg:

  • Indian qualifications require preparatory college
  • Need to attend Studienkolleg before university
  • Want to take Feststellungsprüfung (assessment exam)
  • Improving chances of university admission

4. Students Applying to Restricted Admission Programs:

  • Applying to competitive programs (NC – Numerus Clausus)
  • Need to be in Germany for application procedures
  • Want to attend university open houses and information sessions
  • Networking with professors for research positions

5. Gap Year Students with Strategy:

  • Taking productive gap year preparing for Germany
  • Using time to build language skills and applications
  • Positioning for better university admissions
  • Making connections in German academic environment

§18b Visa Requirements for Indian Students

Meeting these requirements is essential for approval:

1. Educational Qualification Recognition

You Must Have:

  • Completed higher education entrance qualification (12th grade minimum)
  • Recognition by German university system
  • Conditional admission letter OR proof of application to universities
  • Documentation showing need for preparation

For Indian Students:

  • CBSE/ICSE/State Board 12th certificates generally recognized
  • Bachelor’s degrees for master’s programs
  • Transcripts and mark sheets
  • School leaving certificates

How to Verify Recognition:

  • Check Anabin database (anabin.kmk.org)
  • Contact uni-assist for pre-assessment
  • Consult with German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD)
  • Get evaluation from German university

2. Proof of Preparation Plan

Required Documentation:

Enrollment Proof for Preparatory Course:

  • Confirmation from Studienkolleg (if applicable)
  • Enrollment in recognized German language school
  • Registration for TestDaF/DSH preparation course
  • Confirmation from university foundation program

Realistic Preparation Timeline:

  • Clear plan showing 9-month preparation pathway
  • Logical progression (language → exam → application)
  • Feasibility of goals within timeframe
  • Evidence of research and planning

University Application Intent:

  • Proof of intended applications to German universities
  • Letters of inquiry to university programs
  • Conditional admission letters (if available)
  • Research showing qualified for programs

3. German Language Proficiency

Minimum Requirement:

Why Language Matters:

  • Must function in German learning environment
  • Follow preparatory courses effectively
  • Integrate into German life
  • Demonstrate serious intent

Recommendation: Start with at least A2 German before applying for §18b visa to show genuine preparation and increase approval chances. Learning German properly before applying significantly strengthens your case.

4. Financial Proof (Blocked Account)

Amount Required (2025):

  • €11,904 per year (€992 per month) in blocked account
  • For 9-month §18b visa: approximately €9,000 minimum
  • Must be in German blocked account (Sperrkonto)
  • Covers living expenses during preparation period

Acceptable Blocked Account Providers:

  • Fintiba (popular for Indian students)
  • Deutsche Bank
  • Expatrio
  • Coracle

How It Works:

  • Open blocked account from India
  • Deposit full amount before visa application
  • Account confirmed by bank
  • Monthly withdrawal limit after arrival
  • Proves you can support yourself

Additional Costs to Budget:

  • Visa application fee: €75-100
  • Health insurance: €110-120/month
  • German course fees: €200-1,000/month
  • Accommodation: €300-700/month (varies by city)
  • Living expenses beyond blocked account

5. Health Insurance

Requirement:

  • Valid health insurance covering entire §18b period
  • Must meet German standards
  • Coverage from day of entry
  • Minimum coverage: €30,000

Options for Indian Students:

Travel/Incoming Insurance (Initial Period):

  • Dr. Walter EDUCARE24
  • Mawista Student
  • Care Concept
  • Cost: €30-50/month
  • Covers §18b period
  • Must switch to statutory after admission

Important: Standard Indian health insurance typically does NOT meet requirements. German-specific insurance mandatory.

6. Accommodation Proof

Required Documentation:

Before Arrival:

  • Rental agreement (Mietvertrag)
  • Student dormitory confirmation (Wohnheimbestätigung)
  • Sublease agreement
  • Host family confirmation
  • Hotel booking for initial weeks (with plan for permanent housing)

Challenge for Indian Students:

  • Hard to secure German housing from India
  • Most landlords want to meet tenants
  • Student housing waitlists long

Solutions:

  • Book temporary accommodation (hostel, hotel, Airbnb) for first 2-4 weeks
  • Apply to student dormitories (Studentenwerk) in advance
  • Use housing search portals (WG-Gesucht, Immobilienscout24)
  • Join Indian student groups for housing leads
  • Consider private student housing companies

7. Valid Passport

Requirements:

  • Passport valid for at least 12 months beyond visa period
  • At least two blank pages
  • No damage or alterations
  • Recent passport (less than 10 years old preferred)

8. Motivation Letter

Critical Component:

Your motivation letter must explain:

  • Why you need §18b visa specifically
  • Your preparation plan in Germany
  • Intended field of study and universities
  • Career goals after studies
  • Why preparation cannot be completed in India
  • Timeline and milestones for 9 months
  • Commitment to returning to India if unsuccessful

Common Mistakes:

  • Generic letters lacking specific plan
  • Not explaining why §18b needed
  • Vague university intentions
  • No clear timeline
  • Poor German/English language
  • Copying templates obviously

Strong Approach:

  • Specific universities and programs mentioned
  • Realistic preparation pathway
  • Shows research and planning
  • Explains necessity of being in Germany
  • Demonstrates financial planning
  • Professional, well-structured writing

The Application Process: Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare in India (3-6 Months Before)

Language Learning:

Research and Planning:

  • Identify target German universities
  • Determine preparation requirements
  • Contact Studienkolleg if needed
  • Research German language schools in Germany
  • Plan your 9-month preparation timeline

Financial Preparation:

  • Open blocked account (takes 2-4 weeks)
  • Deposit required amount
  • Arrange additional funds for initial expenses
  • Budget for visa fees and other costs

Documentation Gathering:

  • Educational certificates with translations
  • Transcripts and mark sheets
  • Get documents apostilled if required
  • Prepare motivation letter
  • Collect recommendation letters

Step 2: Secure Preparatory Course Enrollment

Options:

1. Studienkolleg (Preparatory College):

  • For students whose qualifications require preparation
  • Free or low-cost (€50-200/semester)
  • Intensive preparation for Feststellungsprüfung
  • Strong pathway to university admission
  • Limited spots, competitive admission

Application Process:

  • Apply directly to Studienkolleg (deadlines: January 15 for summer, July 15 for winter)
  • Submit educational certificates
  • May require entrance exam
  • Conditional admission sufficient for §18b visa

2. University Foundation Programs:

  • Some universities offer preparation programs
  • Designed for international students
  • Lead directly to that university
  • May have fees

3. Private Language Schools:

  • Intensive German courses
  • TestDaF/DSH preparation
  • Flexible start dates
  • Higher costs (€200-1,000/month)
  • Must be recognized and registered

Critical: You MUST have enrollment confirmation in recognized preparatory program before applying for §18b visa.

Step 3: Apply for §18b Visa

Where to Apply:

  • VFS Global centers in India (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, Pune)
  • German Embassy/Consulate jurisdiction for your state
  • Cannot apply from inside Germany

Required Documents Checklist:

  1. Visa Application Form:
    • National visa application (long-stay)
    • Completed accurately in German or English
    • Signed by applicant
  2. Passport:
    • Original passport
    • Copies of data pages
    • Valid 12+ months
  3. Photographs:
    • 2-3 recent biometric photos
    • German specifications (35x45mm)
    • Light background, neutral expression
  4. Educational Documents:
    • 12th certificates (CBSE/State Board)
    • Bachelor’s degree (for master’s applicants)
    • Transcripts and mark sheets
    • All with certified German translations
  5. Language Certificate:
    • A1 minimum (A2 preferred)
    • From recognized institute (Goethe, telc)
    • Recent (within 2 years)
  6. Enrollment Confirmation:
    • Letter from Studienkolleg OR
    • Enrollment in German language school OR
    • University foundation program confirmation
    • Must specify course duration and content
  7. Financial Proof:
    • Blocked account confirmation (Sperrkonto)
    • Bank statements showing deposit
    • Recent (within 3 months)
  8. Health Insurance:
    • Coverage confirmation
    • Valid for entire period
    • Meeting German requirements
  9. Accommodation Proof:
    • Rental agreement OR
    • Student housing confirmation OR
    • Hotel booking with housing search plan
  10. Motivation Letter:
    • Detailed preparation plan
    • University intentions
    • Timeline and goals
    • Professional format
  11. CV/Resume:
    • Educational background
    • Work experience if any
    • Achievements and qualifications
    • German or English format
  12. Declaration of Accuracy:
    • Signed statement that all information is true
    • Understanding of consequences of false information

Visa Fee:

  • €75 (approximately ₹7,000)
  • Payment at VFS center
  • Non-refundable even if rejected

Step 4: Wait for Processing

Timeline:

  • Standard processing: 6-12 weeks
  • Can extend to 3-4 months during peak season (June-August)
  • Delhi VFS often fastest
  • Mumbai and Bangalore moderate wait times

During Processing:

  • Check application status online (if tracking available)
  • Respond promptly to any embassy requests
  • Don’t make non-refundable plans until approval
  • Continue German language learning

Possible Outcomes:

  • Approval: Receive visa sticker in passport
  • Rejection: Receive explanation letter (can appeal or reapply)
  • Request for additional documents: Provide within deadline
  • Interview request: Attend and explain your case

Step 5: Travel to Germany

After Visa Approval:

Book Travel:

  • Book flight to Germany
  • Must arrive within visa validity period
  • Prepare for entry interview at airport

Prepare for Arrival:

  • Print all documents (bring originals)
  • Have accommodation address ready
  • Bring enough cash (€500-1,000) for initial expenses
  • Download German transit apps
  • Research your city

At German Airport:

  • Show visa to immigration
  • May ask about your plans
  • Have enrollment confirmation and accommodation address
  • Show blocked account card
  • Be confident and clear about §18b purpose

Step 6: Register and Activate Residence Permit

Within 2 Weeks of Arrival:

1. City Registration (Anmeldung):

  • Register at local citizen’s office (Bürgeramt)
  • Bring passport with visa
  • Accommodation confirmation from landlord
  • Registration confirmation needed for residence permit

2. Activate Blocked Account:

  • Visit bank with passport and registration
  • Activate account for monthly withdrawals
  • Set up online banking
  • Get bank card

3. Apply for Residence Permit Card:

  • Visit Ausländerbehörde (foreigners office)
  • Bring all original documents
  • Pay residence permit fee (€100-110)
  • Biometric photo taken
  • Receive temporary paper permit while card processed
  • Card arrives in 4-8 weeks

4. Open Regular Bank Account:

  • Needed for paying rent, receiving payments
  • N26, Deutsche Bank, Sparkasse options
  • Bring registration confirmation and passport

5. Enroll in Preparatory Course:

  • Confirm enrollment with Studienkolleg or language school
  • Attend orientation
  • Begin classes

What You Can Do on §18b Visa

Permitted Activities

Study and Preparation:

  • Attend German language courses (up to 20 hours/week)
  • Participate in Studienkolleg
  • Take preparatory exams (TestDaF, DSH, Feststellungsprüfung)
  • Apply to German universities
  • Attend university information sessions
  • Meet with academic advisors

Limited Employment:

  • Work up to 120 full days (8 hours) OR 240 half days (4 hours) per year
  • Mini-jobs (€520/month limit) allowed
  • Student jobs at universities permitted
  • Internships in your field allowed
  • Teaching languages (English, Hindi) possible

Personal Development:

  • Open blocked account and bank account
  • Find permanent accommodation
  • Build German language skills
  • Network with students and professors
  • Explore German culture and cities
  • Make connections for future studies

What You CANNOT Do

Restrictions:

Full-Time Work:

  • Cannot work full-time employment
  • No self-employment or freelancing
  • Cannot exceed work hour limits
  • Must prioritize preparation activities

Switch to Other Visa Types:

  • Cannot switch to work visa from §18b
  • Cannot switch to family reunification
  • Can only convert to student visa (§16b) after admission

Extend Indefinitely:

  • Maximum 9 months duration
  • Extensions rarely granted
  • Must show progress toward admission
  • Need concrete admission prospects

Converting §18b to Student Visa (§16b)

This is the ultimate goal of the §18b visa:

Requirements for Conversion

You Must Have:

  1. University Admission (Zulassungsbescheid):
    • Unconditional admission to German university
    • For bachelor’s, master’s, or PhD program
    • From recognized German university
  2. Financial Proof:
    • Blocked account with €11,904+ for study year
    • Or sufficient scholarship confirmation
    • Or parental income guarantee
  3. Health Insurance:
    • Statutory health insurance enrollment (after admission)
    • Cost: €110-120/month for students
  4. Language Requirements Met:
    • German language certificate at required level (usually B2-C1)
    • OR admission to English-taught program
  5. Accommodation:
    • Proof of accommodation for study period
    • Can be same as §18b period

Conversion Process

Timeline:

  • Apply for student visa 2-3 months before §18b expiry
  • Processing: 4-8 weeks
  • Must be completed before §18b expires

Application:

  • At same Ausländerbehörde where you have §18b
  • Bring admission letter and updated documents
  • Pay residence permit fee (€100-110)
  • Receive student residence permit (§16b)

Success Factors:

  • Timely university admission
  • Complete documentation ready
  • Financial proof confirmed
  • No violations of §18b conditions

What If You Don’t Get University Admission?

The risk with §18b visa:

If Unsuccessful After 9 Months

Your Options:

1. Return to India:

  • Must leave Germany when §18b expires
  • No extensions typically granted
  • Can reapply from India with better preparation
  • Consider gap in resume/timeline

2. Apply Again (From India):

  • Prepare stronger application
  • Improve qualifications
  • Reapply to universities for next semester
  • Consider study pathway adjustments

3. Transfer to Another EU Country:

  • If admission in other EU country possible
  • Different visa requirements
  • Research thoroughly

Reality Check:

  • Extensions rarely granted without concrete admission
  • Overstaying consequences serious
  • Better to leave on time and replan

Prevention:

  • Apply to multiple universities (8-15 applications recommended)
  • Include “safety” options with higher acceptance rates
  • Work diligently on language and preparations
  • Seek advice from student services
  • Attend open houses and networking events

Success Strategies for §18b Visa

Based on successful Indian students’ experiences:

Before Applying

1. Start German Early:

2. Research Thoroughly:

  • Identify 15-20 potential universities
  • Understand admission requirements precisely
  • Know application deadlines
  • Research housing and living costs
  • Connect with Indian students in Germany

3. Financial Planning:

  • Budget €15,000-20,000 total (blocked account + additional expenses)
  • Have emergency fund beyond blocked account
  • Consider part-time work possibilities
  • Plan for entire period before earning

4. Strong Application:

  • Compelling motivation letter
  • Clear preparation timeline
  • Realistic goals
  • Professional documentation
  • No spelling or grammatical errors

During §18b Period in Germany

Maximize Your 9 Months:

Month 1-2: Settling and Intensive Language:

  • Complete registration and bureaucracy
  • Start intensive German course (20+ hours/week)
  • Find permanent accommodation
  • Open bank accounts
  • Explore potential universities

Month 3-4: Language Advancement:

  • Continue intensive German
  • Reach B1 minimum
  • Register for TestDaF/DSH
  • Draft university applications
  • Attend university open houses

Month 5-6: Exam Preparation and Applications:

  • Take TestDaF/DSH exam
  • Submit university applications (winter semester deadline: July 15, summer: January 15)
  • Network with professors
  • Continue language improvement

Month 7-8: Await Decisions:

  • Check application statuses
  • Respond to any university requests
  • Prepare for potential interviews
  • Apply to additional universities if needed
  • Continue German courses

Month 9: Conversion or Departure:

  • Receive admission (ideally)
  • Apply for student visa conversion
  • Or prepare return to India
  • Complete residence permit formalities

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake 1: Insufficient German Language Skills

Problem: Arriving with only A1 German, struggling in courses and daily life.

Solution: Achieve A2 minimum before arrival. Better to delay travel and build language foundation.

Mistake 2: Unrealistic Preparation Plans

Problem: Planning to go from A1 to C1 and get admitted in 9 months without concrete steps.

Solution: Create realistic timeline with specific milestones. Consider 9 months may not be enough for some goals.

Mistake 3: Not Applying to Enough Universities

Problem: Applying only to top universities or 2-3 programs.

Solution: Apply to 10-15 universities including safety options. Cast wide net.

Mistake 4: Poor Financial Planning

Problem: Only bringing blocked account amount, running out of money for preparatory course fees.

Solution: Budget an additional €3,000-5,000 beyond blocked account for courses, materials, and unexpected expenses.

Mistake 5: Starting University Applications Too Late

Problem: Realizing deadlines passed, needing to wait additional semester.

Solution: Know all deadlines before arriving. Begin applications process immediately in Germany.

Mistake 6: Not Understanding University Requirements

Problem: Preparing for wrong language exam or missing prerequisite courses.

Solution: Research specific program requirements thoroughly. Contact university admissions offices. Verify everything.

Mistake 7: Isolation and Not Networking

Problem: Not connecting with other students, missing opportunities and information.

Solution: Join Indian student associations, attend university events, network actively.

§18b Visa vs. Other Options

Understanding alternatives helps you choose best path:

§18b vs. Direct Student Visa

§18b (Study Preparation) Visa:

  • For students WITHOUT admission
  • 9 months maximum
  • Prepare for admission in Germany
  • Can apply to universities while there
  • Must convert to student visa after admission

Student Visa (§16b):

  • For students WITH admission
  • Duration of studies + 18 months job seeking
  • Direct enrollment in degree program
  • More stable status

When to Choose §18b:

  • Need Studienkolleg preparation
  • German language not yet sufficient for admission
  • Want to apply from within Germany
  • Competitive programs requiring German presence
  • Improve admission chances through direct contact

When to Choose Direct Student Visa:

  • Already have admission
  • German language sufficient (or English-taught program)
  • Can apply successfully from India
  • Faster pathway to starting studies

§18b vs. Language Learning Visa

Language Learning Visa:

  • For pure language study
  • Can attend language school
  • Shorter duration typically
  • No clear university pathway

§18b:

  • Specifically for university preparation
  • Includes language but broader preparation
  • Clear pathway to student visa
  • Recognized preparatory intent

When to Choose §18b:

  • Serious university admission intent
  • Comprehensive preparation needed
  • Want legal pathway to student visa

§18b vs. Tourist Visa

Do NOT Use Tourist Visa for Study Preparation:

  • Illegal to study on tourist visa
  • Cannot convert to student visa from tourist status
  • Must leave Schengen and reapply
  • Risks future visa applications
  • Can result in ban

Always use appropriate visa category for your actual purpose.

Financial Breakdown: Real Costs

Budget these expenses for §18b period:

Pre-Arrival Costs

Visa and Documentation:

  • Visa fee: €75 (₹7,000)
  • Document translations: ₹5,000-10,000
  • Apostille certifications: ₹2,000-5,000
  • Courier/VFS charges: ₹3,000-5,000
  • Subtotal: ₹17,000-27,000

Blocked Account:

  • Initial deposit: €9,000-11,904 (₹8-10 lakhs)
  • Account opening fee: €50-150
  • Subtotal: ₹8-10 lakhs

Health Insurance:

  • 9 months coverage: €300-450 (₹27,000-40,000)

Flight:

  • India to Germany: ₹40,000-80,000 (varies by season)

Total Pre-Arrival: ₹9-12 lakhs approximately

Monthly Expenses in Germany

Rent:

  • Student dormitory: €250-400/month
  • Shared apartment (WG): €350-600/month
  • Studio apartment: €500-900/month (city-dependent)

Food:

  • Groceries: €150-250/month
  • Occasional dining: €50-100/month

Transportation:

  • Public transport pass: €30-90/month (often included in semester ticket)

Preparatory Course Fees:

  • Studienkolleg: €0-200/semester (subsidized)
  • Private language school: €200-1,000/month
  • TestDaF exam: €195

Other:

  • Phone/Internet: €20-40/month
  • Personal expenses: €50-100/month
  • Books and materials: €30-50/month

Average Monthly: €800-1,500 (varies greatly by city and lifestyle)

Total 9-Month Budget: €10,000-15,000 (₹9-13.5 lakhs)

City Recommendations for §18b Visa

Location matters for success:

Best Cities for Indian Students

Berlin:

  • Diverse, international
  • Many preparatory programs
  • Large Indian community
  • Moderate living costs
  • Vibrant student life

Munich:

  • Excellent universities
  • Strong Indian network
  • Higher living costs
  • Top quality of life
  • Many opportunities

Heidelberg:

  • Famous university city
  • Student-focused infrastructure
  • Beautiful, manageable size
  • Strong academic reputation

Darmstadt:

  • Technical University focus
  • Good Studienkolleg
  • Reasonable costs
  • Engineering opportunities

Leipzig:

  • Affordable living
  • Growing city
  • Good universities
  • Lower competition for housing

Consider:

  • Proximity to universities you’ll apply to
  • Living costs vs. blocked account
  • Indian community presence
  • Language school quality
  • Housing availability

How Shashwat German School Supports Your §18b Journey

We help Indian students succeed with §18b visa:

Pre-Visa Preparation

German Language Training:

Visa Consulting:

  • §18b application guidance
  • Document preparation support
  • Motivation letter review
  • Timeline planning
  • Mock interview preparation

Application Support

University Research:

  • Identifying suitable programs
  • Understanding admission requirements
  • Application strategy development
  • Deadline management

Documentation Assistance:

  • Certificate verification guidance
  • Translation requirements
  • Application document preparation

Post-Arrival Support

Continued Learning:

  • Online German courses while in Germany
  • Progress monitoring
  • Exam preparation support

Connection:

  • Linking with our alumni in Germany
  • Network with other Indian students
  • Ongoing consulting and guidance

Success Stories

Rahul’s Journey: Engineering Student

Background: B.Tech from tier-2 Indian college, needed Studienkolleg

Path:

  • Learned German to A2 at Shashwat German School
  • Applied for §18b with Studienkolleg enrollment
  • Attended Studienkolleg in Darmstadt for 9 months
  • Passed Feststellungsprüfung
  • Admitted to TU Darmstadt for mechanical engineering
  • Converted to student visa successfully

Key Success Factor: “Strong German foundation before arrival made Studienkolleg manageable. The §18b visa was perfect for my situation.”

Priya’s Journey: Master’s in Computer Science

Background: B.E. Computer Science, needed German language for admission

Path:

  • A1 German before traveling
  • §18b visa with intensive language school enrollment
  • Reached B2 in 7 months through intensive study
  • Applied to 12 universities
  • Admitted to 5 programs
  • Chose RWTH Aachen
  • Now studying master’s

Key Success Factor: “Being in Germany helped me understand universities better and make connections. Converted §18b to student visa smoothly.”

The Bottom Line: Is §18b Right for You?

§18b Visa Is Excellent If:

  • You need Studienkolleg preparation
  • German language insufficient for direct admission
  • Want to improve chances by applying from Germany
  • Have realistic 9-month preparation plan
  • Can afford the investment (₹10-15 lakhs total)
  • Have A1-A2 German already
  • Clear university admission goals

Consider Alternatives If:

  • Already have university admission (apply for student visa directly)
  • Can achieve required German level in India
  • Financial constraints tight
  • Not ready for German immersion
  • Unclear university goals

Success Requirements:

Take Action: Your §18b Pathway

Ready to pursue §18b visa? Here’s your action plan:

Immediate (Now):

  1. Start learning German seriously
  2. Research potential universities and programs
  3. Calculate your budget and start saving
  4. Verify your qualifications’ recognition

3-6 Months Before:

  1. Achieve A2 German certification
  2. Identify and enroll in German preparatory program
  3. Open blocked account
  4. Gather and translate all documents

2-3 Months Before:

  1. Submit §18b visa application at VFS
  2. Continue German language study
  3. Research accommodation options
  4. Connect with Indians in target cities

After Visa Approval:

  1. Book travel to Germany
  2. Prepare for arrival
  3. Join our support network
  4. Begin your German preparation journey

Contact Shashwat German School today to start your German language preparation and §18b visa consulting. We’ll help you build the language skills and application strategy needed for successful university admission in Germany.


About Shashwat German School: Based in Bardoli with comprehensive online programs, we specialize in preparing Indian students for studying in Germany through language training, visa consulting, and university application support. Our students successfully use the §18b visa pathway to gain admission to top German universities. Whether you’re just beginning German or preparing your §18b application, we provide the expert guidance and quality instruction essential for success.

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