4.1 Visa for University Studies (Section 16b of the Residence Act)
Purpose: Bachelor’s/Master’s/PhD studies at a recognized university or preparatory college in Germany.
Key requirements:
- University entrance qualification (e.g., KCSE + additional qualifications if necessary, depending on recognition).
- Letter of admission from a German university (or conditional admission, applicant admission, or acceptance to a preparatory college).
- Secured funding (blocked account, declaration of financial support, or scholarship) in the amount of the annual standard cost of living (currently at least approx. €11,208 or €934/month – depending on the year; see information sheet for exact amount).
- Sufficient language proficiency in the language of instruction (German/English) in accordance with program requirements.
List of Documents (Excerpt):
- Passport + 1 copy; for third-country nationals: Kenyan residence permit.
- 1–2 VIDEX application forms, biometric photos.
- Letter of admission from the university/preparatory college.
- Proof of school and university degrees (diplomas, transcripts, translations).
- Proof of financial support (confirmation of blocked account, letter of financial commitment, scholarship award letter specifying amount and duration).
- Complete resume, letter of motivation (expectations, career plans, plans for returning home).
- Health insurance (covering at least the first 90 days after entry).
4.2 Student Applicant/Preparatory Course Visa
For applicants who are first taking entrance exams or attending a preparatory college, or who are awaiting admission, there are special subcategories; the required documents are similar to those for the student visa, but there is a stronger emphasis on proof of application and preparation (e.g., Uni-Assist correspondence).
4.3 Scholarship Visa
There is no separate “scholarship visa”; scholarship recipients use the regular student visa but must submit a scholarship award letter (e.g., DAAD, foundations) as proof of funding, which clearly describes the amount, duration, and scope of benefits.
4.4 Language Course Visas
Standalone language course visa (not preparatory for studies):
- Intensive language course with at least 18 class hours per week.
- Usual duration: 3–12 months.
- A change of purpose (e.g., switching from a language course to studies or work while in the country) is generally not permitted—a separate student visa is required.
Documents (excerpt):
- Course registration confirmation with details on duration, number of hours, and costs.
- Proof of payment for course fees.
- Proof of financial means (e.g., blocked account with approx. €10,332 or letter of financial support).
- Educational credentials, resume, letter of motivation.
Language course + subsequent studies: Separate information sheets (combined visa), which already require that a preparatory language course be completed before the start of studies.