German Student Visa Interview Questions, Answers & Tips to Crack

International students planning to study in Germany must undergo the German student visa application process, which includes a visa interview. It is crucial to gather all required documents during the application and be well-prepared for the interview. The interview aims to assess the candidate's intention to study in Germany by asking general, personal, and specific questions about their future plans. Additionally, the interview seeks to evaluate the candidate's ability to accommodate to the lifestyle in Germany.

The visa interview is considered important as the student visas often face rejections for various reasons. Nevertheless, students need not worry as the German visa interview has a high success rate of 95%. In this blog, you will find the most asked German student visa interview questions, answers, and tips which help you crack the interview with confidence.

German student visa application process

To obtain a German student visa, students must go to the German Embassy/Consulate situated in their home country. They need to inquire about the visa application and interview process and schedule an appointment. Before the appointment, ensure you have all the necessary documents organized according to the list provided by the Embassy/Consulate. On the day of the appointment, the visa interview will take place shortly after submitting the documents.

German Student Visa Interview Question and Answers

 Attending the visa interview is one of the crucial steps during the student visa application process.  The most common questions asked on various topics to a German student visa applicant are listed below.

1. Why do you want to study in Germany?

How to Answer: Answer it by explaining the research you have conducted about Germany. State the facts that led you to choose this country. The fact that Germany is one of the world’s top three countries. It provides high-quality education with low tuition fees to international students. Also mention the diverse culture, freedom, and security that come along with choosing this country.

Tip: Do extensive research about Germany and convey what inspires you.

2. Why did you choose this university? How did you find out about it?

How to Answer: To answer this, visit the official website of the selected university. Provide reasons for your choice by addressing any of the following questions: Does the university excel as the best for your program? Is it recognized among the top universities for international students? Does it offer outstanding internship programs? Are the tuition fees notably low? Have you been fortunate enough to secure a scholarship?

Tip: Visit the official website of the university to get insights before attending the interview.

3. Why did you choose this course? Is it relevant to your previous study?

How to Answer: If the chosen course is related to your previous study, then highlight this as a reason. If the course is not related to your previous study, you could explain how you got interested in the course. List out the certifications or internships done based on the course and emphasize your enthusiasm to pursue it. Additionally, you may consider mentioning if Germany provides advanced programs related to your field of study.

Tip:  Visit the website of the university and get to know about the chosen course, and syllabus beforehand.

4. Which other universities have you applied for?

How to Answer: Be honest while answering this question. Let them know if you have applied to another university. But make sure to convey that you are satisfied with being accepted at the current university and cannot wait to commence your studies.
Tip: Be honest.

5. Why do you want to study in Germany and not US, Canada or UK?

How to Answer: You could answer by stating that Germany offers both theoretical and practical knowledge to students. Provides top-class education with low tuition fees compared to the US, Canada, UK.

6. Who motivated you to go to Germany?

How to Answer: Inform them that you have received consistent support from your family, friend, or partner throughout your entire journey, from the outset until now. Specifically, mention the person who has been a significant source of motivation for you to pursue your studies in Germany.

7. In which ways will you improve your language skills?

How to Answer: Addressing this question involves detailing your language learning approach and highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing your overall capabilities.

8. Why are you a good fit for the program?

How to Answer: Responding to this question requires promoting yourself by showcasing your skills. Talk about your educational background and how it connects to the course you want to pursue. Share your relevant work experiences, and mention the knowledge you have that directly applies to the chosen program.

9. When did you complete your undergraduate degree?

How to Answer: Mention the exact year you have completed your Undergraduate degree.

10. Do you know German?

How to Answer: Typically, international students applying for studies are required to have a proficiency level of B1 in German. If your program requires you to understand language, please explain your proficiency level. Express your desire to improve your German language proficiency by enrolling in classes in Germany if you are currently learning the language.

Tip: Know more about the language proficiency to study in Germany.

11. How many states are there in Germany and can you name some of them?

Answer: Germany is composed of sixteen federal states, namely Baden-Wurttemberg, Bavaria, Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hessen, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Niedersachsen, North Rhine-Westphalia, Rheinland-Pfalz, Saarland, Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, Schleswig-Holstein, and Thuringia.

Tip: Get to know about German federal states

12. How many borders does Germany have and with which countries?

Answer: Germany shares its borders with nine neighboring countries, which include Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Poland, and Switzerland.

13. What are the top most expensive cities to live in?

Answer: Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt am Main, Düsseldorf, and Bonn are recognized as the five most expensive cities to live in Germany.

Tip: Acquire information about these five cities so that you can respond effectively if questioned about them.

14. Name a tourist attraction in Germany and explain why it's famous.

How to Answer: Highlight some of Germany's prominent attractions, such as museums, palaces, national parks, castles, the Berlin Wall, and other captivating locations.

15. What is the population of Germany?

Answer: As per recent statistics the population of Germany is currently 83 million.

16. What is the duration of your course?

How to Answer: Inform them about the duration of your course, including the starting and ending dates if necessary. Additionally, be prepared to share the number of semesters your course comprises if the question arises.

17. What is the course start date?

How to Answer: Inform them of the date when you are about to enroll as a student in the university.

Tip: You can find the course start date in the admission letter from the university.

18. What is the name of the course?

How to Answer: Only give the name of the course not the entire content. Example - MBA

19. Is the course completely in English?

How to Answer: Indicate whether you have been accepted into an international program or a regular program. Typically, international programs are conducted entirely in English, although some may include lessons in German.

Tip: Ensure to know the accurate information about the language of your upcoming studies to avoid negative impact.

20. What is the course structure?

How to Answer: Briefly describe the number of semesters, whether a full-time or part-time program, core subject areas, credits per semester, total hours of lessons per semester, study methodology, and related activities.

Tip: Visit the university website and get to know about the course structure.

21. In which university are you going to study? What is the location of your university?

How to Answer: Inform the name of the university and where it is located.

Tip: Practice it beforehand to be familiar with names.

22.  Can you tell me some facts about your university?

How to Answer: State the facts such as the founder of the university, the year in which it was founded, no of departments, no of graduates every year, internship programs, course types and structure, international-oriented programs, and research initiatives.

Tip: Visit the university website and take notes on the recent achievements made, including statistical data on the yearly admission of students.

23.  What is the scope of your course?

How to Answer: Mention the department and the subjects included in the course. For example – Finance Department and the course name MBA Finance along with the subjects. State its main objectives.

24. What benefits can this course bring you?

How to Answer: Discuss the career opportunities you could get after finishing your studies at a German university, whether working as an employee or starting your own business. Point out that your country is keen to hire skilled people related to your desired field who have excellent knowledge and practical skills.

Tips: Gather information and statistics regarding the demand for the course you are pursuing.

25. Is this program relevant to your previous studies?

How to Answer: Answer Yes if the current program is relevant to your previous studies. If the answer is no you could provide reasons on what made you choose this course, any certifications or short courses done, and your passion for the subject.

26. What will be the total cost of studies per year?

How to Answer: Provide information on the expected total tuition fees for the entire duration of your study course.

Tip: This does not include the living costs, only calculate the tuition fee for all study years.

27. Can you name some of the modules you will be studying?

How to Answer: List the primary modules of the course you are set to undertake. For example: if you plan to study computer science then key modules might include Algorithms, Operation Systems, Security and Networking, etc.

Tip: You can find this information by visiting the university website under the course outline.

28. Do you have any access to any scholarships?

How to Answer: Answer this question with a simple "yes" or "no." In the case of having a student scholarship, specify the awarding institution, the amount of financial assistance, and the duration of the scholarship.

29. Why do you think the university is awarding you a scholarship?

How to Answer: Highlight your high GPA scores, GMAT scores, or TOEFL scores. If there are additional reasons you are aware of that contributed to being awarded a scholarship, mention those as well.

Tip: Ensure that you remember all the prerequisites for obtaining a scholarship so that you can respond confidently.

30. What is your intended travel date?

How to Answer: Your travel date should match the date mentioned in your travel ticket. It is necessary to start early so that you can enroll and register for your classes.

31.  Where was your latest academic degree taken? When will you receive it? Who issued it?

How to Answer: Tell them the name of the degree and the university that granted you a degree. Mention the year and month it was issued and the location of the university that awarded it.

Tip:  Give the exact graduation date by looking at the degree certificate.

32. What was your GPA at the end of your studies?

How to Answer: When you finish your most recent studies, tell them what your most recent GPA was, and provide supporting documentation, like your most recent degree-awarding certificate.

33.  What is your IELTS score?

How to Answer: State your IELTS results and do not provide any other information until asked.

Tip: Make sure to recall the IELTS score before going to the interview.

34.   Have you taken any English courses? Have you taken any specific courses related to your studies?

How to Answer: If you were taking an English course, state the course name and level of the course. Talk about the key subjects covered if you have taken any subject-related courses to get ready for further education. If someone asked, you could provide the name of the institution that was providing these classes as well as relevant dates.

Tip: Do not be afraid to admit that you did not enroll in any of the courses if enrolling in such courses is not mandatory.

35. What have you done since your last graduation?

How to Answer: Describe what you have done since you graduated. It can include various activities such as getting paid for work, going to training, and engaging in academic pursuits like finishing a reading list or conducting research. Additionally, it may involve personal development, such as getting ready to study in Germany, learning languages, participating in the community, or providing care for someone in need, either voluntarily or online.

Tip: Mentioning that you did nothing after your graduation gives a negative impression. So be sure to identify the productive activities you did during that time.

36. How can you support your studies in Germany?

How to Answer: Depending on the circumstances, different responses might be provided. Your education may be funded by someone else (such as your father or another person in Germany), or you could be receiving a study loan or scholarship. Alternatively, you might be using the funds you have saved for future studies. Another option is a security payment placed in a blocked bank account (Sperrkonto).

Note: You cannot mention any sponsor who hasn't provided a sponsorship letter with terms and conditions of support and is not legally qualified to serve as your sponsor.

37. How much money is available for your stay in Germany?

How to Answer: Provide the amount of money you have in your bank account that you will have available for living and studying in Germany. The amount of money you give must match your "Finanzierungsnachweis," which is documentation of your financial stability and ability to support your living expenses while studying in Germany.

Tip: Be specific and concise when presenting the amount of money you have, as it must be reasonable, and associated with living and educational expenses. Ensure it is backed up by the required paperwork.

38. Who is sponsoring your education? How much do they earn in a year?

How to Answer: If you have a sponsor, describe your relationship with them (for example, as a father, sister, brother, etc.) and include their job title and annual salary. To support such a claim, you must present the necessary supporting documentation.

Tip: Make sure you are fully aware of every detail of your sponsor's yearly salary and job title.

39. Who are all earning members in your Family?

How to Answer: List all of your family members who currently work for a living, being sure to include their job titles, positions held, and, if questioned, the names of their employers.

Tip: Make sure to discuss with the family about their job titles so that you will answer it correctly during the interview.

40.  What proof do you have that your sponsor can support your studies?

How to Answer: Typically, bank statements from your sponsor are required for this (or from you, if you are paying for your program out of pocket). You might also be required to submit a list of all of your assets, depending on the university.

41. How much will you be able to earn after completing your studies?

How to Answer: Tell them the approximate annual salary you would receive for a position that you might hold after graduating from a German university and returning to your home country. If you already have a business idea, you should also present the business plan with projected annual revenue; however, ensure that these figures are based on a realistic probability.

42. Are you going to work while studying?

How to Answer: Make sure to not mention work during your studies. Your visa is intended to allow you to "study" in Germany.

43.  Where are you going to stay in Germany?

How to Answer: Give the name of the state and city where you will be staying. It is also possible that the interviewers will inquire about your housing preferences in Germany. Student dorms and WG (flatshare) are the two types of lodging available. If you haven't found housing before traveling to Germany, you can spend some time at hostels, hotels, Airbnbs, and other short-term lodging options.

 44. How long do you plan on staying?

How to Answer: Provide a response that is in line with every detail of your travel plan, including the times of your departure and arrival. Remember that the amount of time you wish to spend in the Schengen Area will determine how long your visa will be granted.

45.  Do you have any relatives in the respective country?

How to Answer: Mention immediate family members who are now or were previously residents of Germany.

Tips: Include only siblings and parents and not any distant relatives.

46. Do you have any relatives or acquaintances who are students at this university?

How to Answer: If you are applying for a student visa, you must disclose the identities and relationships of any family members or friends currently enrolled in the university in the Schengen Area where you have been accepted.

47. Do you have any relatives or friends who live in the Schengen Zone?

How to Answer: Well before the interview, compile a list of all the relatives and friends you know who are residents of the Schengen Area. The embassy might conclude that you are trying to avoid a question if you fail to mention names during the interview.

48. Have you applied for a visa at the German Embassy or any of the Schengen countries before?

How to Answer: Be honest while answering this. The embassy has every detail about you. Say, your visa application to the Netherlands was denied, the German embassy will be automatically notified. A single system and information are shared throughout the Schengen area. Just because your previous one got denied doesn’t mean your current one will be denied as well.

49.  What do you plan to do during your vacations?

How to Answer: Answer as though you have no interest in working in Germany. It is required that you declare your intention to return home for the semester break to be with family.

50. Where will you work after finishing your studies in Germany?

How to Answer: Convey that you are not interested in pursuing a job in Germany. It is required that you declare your intention to return home for the semester break to be with family.

51. How can we be sure you will return home within your visa specified time frame?

How to Answer: State the important relationships and associations you have in your native country, whether they are personal, professional, or educational. These links, which can include ties to your family, continued education, a committed job, a business, property ownership, or other meaningful engagements, are powerful reasons to make the trip home.

52. What are your future plans?

How to Answer: Expressing your desire to go back home after you finish your studies should be your response. Inform them that you would like to launch your own business in a field linked to your studies, take a job in your home country, or both.

53. Do you plan to work there?

How to Answer: In general, you should not indicate that you intend to work while you are a student. However, there are specific circumstances in which foreign students can work while they are enrolled in classes. Verify that the type of visa you have and your enrollment status allow you to work either during or after your studies. Anyway, you have to demonstrate that your primary goal is your education, not landing a job there.

54. Have you researched your career prospects?

How to Answer: Once more, make it clear that you have no intention of staying in Germany for employment or to become a permanent resident by expressing your desire to return home and pursue a career in line with your academic background. Prove to them that you have done enough research and that your country has a large need for qualified workers in your field.

55. Is this course available in your home country? If so, why don’t you study in your home country?

How to Answer: Be honest while answering this question. Do research whether this course is available in your home country or not. You never know which resources the visa officer will use to confirm your response. If your response is yes, a great justification would be, "The infrastructure and educational standards in my home country are not comparable to those in Germany." I think completing this program in Germany will make me a more well-rounded graduate. I also get the chance to pick up a new language and culture."

56. Name some of the famous researchers in your field of study.

How to Answer: Mention a few of the researchers and innovators who have inspired you and served as role models in the field of study you have chosen. For example: Rudolph Bayer, who is professor emeritus of Informatics at the Technical University of Munich, Einstein in the field of science.

57. Do You Have a Husband or Wife? If you say yes, what will your husband do? Are you married to your partner for a long time?

How to Answer: If you are getting married, be sure to commit the exact wedding date and details to memory as soon as possible. Any erroneous or insecure answer regarding the number of years of marriage could be seen as an effort to hide facts. You can just say that you are single or divorced if you are not married.

Tips to follow while attending a student visa interview

The student visa interview process should be considered seriously to avoid rejection. Here are some tips to help you give your best effort.

• Punctuality matters: Ensure punctuality for your study visa interview. Being late can reduce your chances of selecting your application and the embassy may also refuse your entry.
• Dress professionally: Choose attire that strikes a balance between comfort and professionalism. Your outfit should convey that you are serious about the interview.
• Keep your documents prepared: Double- and triple-check that all required documents are to meet the study visa requirements before the interview.
• Direct and Specific Responses: Answer questions straightforwardly which provide specific responses. If you are unsure about an answer, it's acceptable to admit it.
• Confidence is Key: Maintain confidence in yourself and your abilities throughout the student visa process. A positive attitude can leave a good impression.
• Know your CV: Be mindful of what you have included in your CV. Be prepared to answer any questions mentioned in the CV.
• Be Patient: Recognize that the German student visa process typically takes 3-6 weeks on average, and in some cases, it may extend to 6-12 weeks. Be patient throughout the waiting period.

Conclusion

Students can ace the German student visa interview by answering the questions honestly and with confidence. Although you might not be asked every question on the above list, it's crucial to answer with no hesitation any type of German student visa interview questions that may be asked in the interview.

FAQ

1. What questions are asked in a German student visa interview?

Frequently asked visa interview questions are

• Why do you want to study in Germany and not the US, Canada, or UK?
• Why did you choose this university? How did you find out about it?
• How can you support your studies in Germany?
• Why did you choose this course? Is it relevant to your previous study?
• Where are you going to stay in Germany?
• Do you speak German?

2. Will there be an interview for a German student visa?

If you are from outside of Europe and would like to study in Germany, you will most likely need to apply for a German student visa. To process your student visa application, an interview will be required with a representative of the German Embassy or Consulate.

3. Is a German student visa easy to get?

Yes. According to the research conducted in 2022/2023, around 95% of German student visa applications are approved.

4. How can I avoid German student visa rejection?

If you want to be granted a student visa, you must successfully clear your interview. Visa could be denied if not answering the questions correctly, or not having enough information to answer.

5. What happens after a German student visa interview?

After you finish the visa interview and submit your application, it could take the embassy 15 to 30 days to process it and respond. If the response is positive, you are free to enter Germany and begin your study program.