Public tuition near zero. Blocked account, residence permit, post-study job-seeker visa, EU Blue Card. We tell you what it actually takes before you commit.
The PDF we give students who can’t book a call this week. Public-vs-private cost reality, blocked account, residence permit, EU Blue Card.
Public vs private universities. When €0 tuition is real, when it’s a myth.
Blocked account & APS. What to do, when, with which bank.
Job-seeker visa. 18 months after graduation to find skilled work.
EU Blue Card pathway. Salary thresholds, sponsorship odds, PR in 21-33 months.
PDF, ~2.4 MB · used by 140+ students this intake.
The brief
Germany 2025 / 26
Volume 07 · 40 pages
Transitley
Honestly answered
The questions we get most.
Is German university really free?
Public universities, mostly yes: you pay a €200-350 semester contribution, not tuition. Baden-Württemberg charges €1,500/sem for non-EU. Private universities run €10,000-25,000.
What is the blocked account?
Sperrkonto. As of 2024: €11,208 deposited in a German bank before the visa. Released to you in monthly instalments (~€934). Proof you can self-fund the first year.
How long is the post-study job-seeker visa?
18 months after graduation. Live in Germany, find skilled work in your field, convert to a work visa or EU Blue Card. Don’t need a degree-related job during the 18 months.
Do I need German language?
For English-taught Master’s, no formal requirement. For employment after, yes: B1/B2 doubles your interview rate. We map language requirements per course.
How early should I start?
10-14 months. APS certificate alone takes 4-8 weeks. Blocked account funding + visa appointment can compound.
What does working with Transitley cost?
First consultation is free. Paid by student, not university. Exact pricing on the call.
Trip on
One call. One counsellor. Visa filed.
Seven destinations, one process. The eligibility call is free.