If you want to study in Germany without a scholarship, the first number you need to know is €11,904. That is the amount most non-EU students must show in a Germany blocked account (Sperrkonto) to get a student visa: €992 for each month of your planned stay, or €11,904 for a full year. This guide explains the Germany blocked account for 2027 entry in plain language: what it is, how much you need, which providers charge what, the alternatives, and what else your first year will cost.
It is written for international students from every region, including Africa, South and Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Central Asia and Latin America. Rules can differ slightly by embassy, so always confirm the final amount with the German mission in your country.
What Is a German Blocked Account?
A blocked account is a special bank account that proves you can pay for your living costs in Germany. You deposit the full amount before applying for your visa. The bank then issues a confirmation letter that you attach to your application. After you arrive and activate the account, you can only withdraw a fixed monthly amount, which protects you from running out of money in the first year.
It applies to applicants from outside the EU and the Schengen area who apply for a student visa. EU and EEA citizens do not need one.
How Much Do You Need in 2026–27?
According to Expatrio and the DAAD, the requirement has been €992 per month (€11,904 per year) since September 2024. This figure is linked to the German student support (BAföG) rate. It has risen over the years, so there is a chance of change for future intakes.
| Length of stay on visa | Amount to deposit (at €992/month) |
|---|---|
| 6 months | €5,952 |
| 12 months | €11,904 |
| 18 months | €17,856 |
History helps you plan: the requirement was €861 per month in 2022 and €934 per month in 2023 (source: Expatrio). We found no announced change for 2027 entry, but treat that as unconfirmed and check your embassy’s website before you transfer money.
Blocked Account Providers and Fees
Several recognised providers offer the account online. The figures below come from a 2026 comparison by CBS International Business School. Fees change often, so check each provider’s site.
| Provider | Setup fee | Monthly fee |
|---|---|---|
| Deutsche Bank | €150 | €6.90 |
| Fintiba | €159 | €9.90 |
| Expatrio | €89 | €5 |
| Studely | €152 | €0 |
Opening times vary from minutes to about a week, and payout after activation can take from a few minutes up to a week. Start as soon as you receive your admission letter, because visa appointments are often the real bottleneck.
Step by Step: Opening Your Account
- Choose a provider that your German embassy accepts.
- Apply online and upload your passport and admission letter.
- Transfer the full required amount from your own or your family’s bank account.
- Download the blocking confirmation and include it in your visa file.
- After arriving in Germany, activate the account to start monthly payouts.
Keep your bank transfer receipts. Some embassies ask where the money came from, especially for large transfers.
Alternatives to a Blocked Account
Depending on the embassy and the local immigration office, other proofs of funds may be accepted (mygermanuniversity, CBS):
- Formal obligation letter (Verpflichtungserklärung): a person living in Germany promises to cover your costs.
- Scholarship certificate: a full scholarship covering €992 a month, from a recognised provider. See our scholarships page.
- Bank guarantee or parental income documents: accepted by some offices only.
The blocked account is generally needed for the first year; later years can be covered by other proof of funds. Always ask your local immigration office.
What Does Studying in Germany Really Cost?
Many public universities charge no tuition for most programmes, but there are important exceptions for non-EU students.
| Cost | Figure | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition, most public universities | Usually none for most courses | DAAD |
| Tuition, Baden-Württemberg (non-EU) | €1,500 per semester | DAAD, Heidelberg University |
| Tuition, TUM (non-EU, from WS 2024/25) | Bachelor’s €2,000 or €3,000; Master’s €4,000 or €6,000 per semester | DAAD |
| Semester contribution | €100–€350 per semester | DAAD |
| Living costs | At least €992 per month | Heidelberg University |
The semester contribution is separate from tuition and often includes a regional transport ticket. The practical lesson: for the lowest total cost, choose a state or university with no tuition for international students, and compare cities, because rent drives your monthly budget.
Can You Work While Studying?
Yes, within limits. Make it in Germany states that non-EU students may work up to 140 full days or 280 half days a year without approval from the Federal Employment Agency, or alternatively up to 20 hours a week during lectures. Student assistant jobs at the university are not counted in those limits. Self-employment needs approval from the foreigners authority.
Part-time work should be treated as a bonus. Universities warn that you cannot finance your whole degree this way, and your visa funds must still be shown in advance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Students often lose weeks because of avoidable errors. First, they wait for the visa appointment before opening the account; providers can take from a few minutes to about a week. Second, they deposit an outdated amount. The figure has increased more than once since 2022, so confirm the current number on your embassy’s website. Third, they send the money from an account that is not in their own or a close relative’s name, which can raise questions about the source of funds. Fourth, they forget that the blocked account is only one part of the budget: tuition in some states, the semester contribution, health insurance and rent deposits all come on top.
A Simple Timeline for 2027 Intakes
Most students plan backwards from the intake date. Shortlist universities and check tuition rules first. Apply and collect your admission letter. Open the blocked account straight after admission, then book your visa appointment and prepare your documents. Travel only after the visa is issued, and activate the account as soon as you arrive in Germany so your monthly payouts begin. Starting early gives you a buffer if documents need translation or an appointment is delayed.
Budget Tips for Self-Funded Students
- Apply to no-tuition public universities first and compare semester contributions.
- Ask your university about student housing early; waiting lists can be long.
- Keep a small emergency fund beyond the blocked amount for deposits and setup costs.
- Choose programmes with strong internship links to build income after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money is needed for a Germany student visa in 2027?
Currently €992 per month, or €11,904 for 12 months. We found no confirmed change for 2027, so check your embassy before depositing.
Can I get my blocked account money back?
The funds are paid out monthly after activation. If you need more than the available balance, the CBS guide says you need account release approval from a local immigration office. Ask your provider about closing the account if you leave Germany.
Is a blocked account always required?
No. Embassies may accept a Verpflichtungserklärung or a qualifying scholarship instead, depending on the visa office.
Is studying in Germany really free?
Most public universities charge no tuition for most programmes, but Baden-Württemberg and some universities such as TUM charge non-EU students. You still pay a semester contribution and living costs.
Can I work to pay for my studies?
You can work 140 full days or 280 half days a year, or up to 20 hours a week during lectures, but this will not cover all your costs.
Next Steps
Not sure whether to self-fund or apply for a scholarship first? Hum Scholars offers a free profile and CV assessment. Browse our study destinations, see how our services work, or contact us at humscholars.info@gmail.com.
Information was checked against the sources linked above in October 2026. Amounts and rules can change, so confirm with the German embassy and your university before paying anything.