How to Study in Germany Without a Blocked Account?

Can a candidate study in Germany without the blocked account if he or she does not have access to such an account, well, there is but the candidate has to fulfill a specific criteria with regard to the financial support. By being aware of these options students can concentrate on their education without worrying about issues relating to German Blocked Accounts.

Germany is one of the first preferences of Indians who want to pursue education in an international country with diverse culture and a large number of jobs. However, one of the significant hurdles in the German visa application process is the requirement of a blocked account. The Blocked Account often referred to as Sperrkonto is a special type of bank account which internationals need to have in order to obtain their German visa. The Blocked Account in Germany serves as proof of sufficient funds for living expenses during your studies.

Now from the 1st of September 2024, Germany has increased their Blocked Account requirements for the international students. Currently students are required to prove their financial viability by producing €11,904 per year (Approximately INR 10 lakh). Which for most middle class families is quite a big amount. 

Students might have queries like can I get a German student visa without a blocked account? Yes, there are alternatives that allow students to study in Germany without having to open a blocked account. However, there are some conditions which one needs to understand to study in Germany without a Blocked Account. One can check the details on German Blocked Account, what are its alternatives for Indian students.

Understanding the Blocked Account Requirement

A blocked account is a special type of bank account through which students wishing to study in Germany are required to deposit a definite sum of money for their daily living expenses while studying in Germany. The required amount in the German Blocked Account is €11,904, which allows students to withdraw approximately €992 per month for their living costs. This requirement ensures students are financially able to cater for themselves during the times of their study.

While, a blocked account though commonly preferred by many students is not the only way of proving financial position. Knowledge of the alternatives make it easier especially for the persons who may have a hard time opening a blocked account.

How to Study In Germany Without a Blocked Account?

Indian students can study in Germany without opening a blocked account if they meet one of the following criteria:

Scholarships: 

If you receive a scholarship from a recognized institution or government body, such as DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service), you can demonstrate sufficient funds through this support. The scholarship must cover your living expenses entirely.

Popular Scholarship Available to Study in Germany:

• DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service): This is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs for international students. It offers various scholarships covering tuition fees, living expenses, and health insurance.
• Erasmus+: This EU program provides funding for student exchange programs, including those to Germany.
• University-Specific Scholarships: Many German universities offer scholarships to talented students.
• Government Scholarships: Some governments, including the Indian government, offer scholarships for studying abroad, including Germany.

Declaration of Commitment (Verpflichtungserklärung):

This document can be issued by a relative or friend residing in Germany who agrees to financially support you during your studies. The declaration must clearly state that the individual will cover your living costs and must be obtained from an Alien’s Registration Office in Germany.

How to get a declaration of commitment?

• Find a Sponsor: Identify a relative or friend in Germany willing to support you financially.
• Obtain the Declaration: The sponsor must visit an Alien’s Registration Office in Germany to obtain this document.
• Visa Application: Include this declaration with your visa application as proof of financial support.

Government Sponsorship:

If your study program is fully sponsored by a government agency or organization, you can present this as proof of financial support when applying for your visa.

How to get a Government Sponsorship to study in Germany? 

• Identify Sponsorship Programs: Candidates need to research government-sponsored programs available for international students.
• Application Process: Follow specific guidelines provided by the sponsoring agency.
• Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documentation confirming sponsorship.

Institutional Support:

Some educational institutions provide accommodation and food allowances as part of their programs. If you have documentation from your institution confirming this support, it may exempt you from needing a blocked account.

How to get institutional support in Germany? 

• Contact Your Institution: Reach out to your university’s international office to inquire about available support.
• Obtain Documentation: Request official documentation confirming accommodation and food allowances.
• Include in Visa Application: Attach this documentation when applying for your student visa.

Student Loans:

An approved student loan from a recognized financial institution that covers your living expenses can also serve as proof of funds.

Steps to Take if You Don’t Open a Blocked Account in Germany

If you qualify for any of the above alternatives, follow these steps:

• Gather Documentation: Collect all necessary documents that prove your financial support, such as scholarship letters, the Declaration of Commitment, or sponsorship letters from educational institutions.
• Apply for Your Visa: Submit your German student visa application along with the gathered documents to the German consulate or embassy in India. Ensure that all documents are correctly formatted and complete to avoid delays.
• Prepare for Arrival: Once your visa is approved, prepare for your move to Germany. Familiarize yourself with local customs, language basics, and accommodation options.
• Open a Local Bank Account: After arriving in Germany, consider opening a local bank account to manage your finances effectively during your studies.

German Study Visa Application Process

Candidates can follow these steps to apply for a German student visa:

1. Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, such as your acceptance letter, proof of financial support (scholarship letter, Declaration of Commitment, etc.), health insurance, language proficiency test scores, and passport.
2. Schedule a Visa Appointment: Book an appointment at the nearest German embassy or consulate in India.
3. Attend the Visa Interview: Prepare for common questions about your academic goals, financial situation, and reasons for choosing Germany. Be confident, polite, and honest during the interview.
4. Submit Your Application: Submit your completed application form, along with all required documents, at the German embassy or consulate.
5. Wait for Visa Approval: The processing time for a German student visa may vary. Be patient and keep track of your application status.

Cost of Living in Germany:

Understanding the cost of living beforehand is important for one who is planning to study or work in Germany. The cost of living in Germany is approximately EUR 12,000 per year (more than INR 10.7 Lakhs). However, the German living cost will vary, depending on the living standard, cities, and more. The cost of living in Germany includes the expenses one might face for grocery, transportation, entertainment and other important things.

Breakdown of Living Costs in Different German Cities

The cost of living in Germany varies significantly between cities. Check the average monthly expenses in some major cities of Germany:

City	Total Estimated Monthly Cost
Munich	€2,060 - €2,160
Berlin	€1,831 - €1,931
Frankfurt am Main	€1,730 - €1,830
Stuttgart	€1,523 - €1,623
Hamburg	€1,530 - €1,630
Cologne	€1,400 - €1,500
Düsseldorf	€1,430 - €1,530
Bremen	€1,087 - €1,187

Part-time Work Opportunities in Germany:

International students from non-EU countries are allowed to work part-time while studying in Germany under specific conditions. Students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year without requiring a special work permit. International students can work around 43.3 hours per month under the new minimum wage scheme of Germany. 

If you go over these limits, or if you have a job over semester break, you definitely will have to get a work permit. As of 2025 starting pay in Germany will increase to 12,41 EUR per hour. This increase will see full time workers earning a gross pay of approximately €2222.