Question 1

What is the Verpflichtungserklärung and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

It is a declaration of commitment signed by a German resident agreeing to cover your costs if you cannot. It is an alternative to the blocked account — you do not need both. Most Lebanese students use the blocked account because finding someone in Germany willing to sign this document is difficult.

Question 2

Do Lebanese students need an APS certificate?

Accepted Answer

Currently Lebanon is not on the list of countries that require APS certificate verification. You do not need it. Always verify with your specific university as requirements can change. Countries like Syria, China, and Egypt require it — Lebanon does not as of 2024.

Question 3

What German language level is required for university?

Accepted Answer

For German-taught programs: minimum B2, but most universities require C1. For English-taught programs you need IELTS or TOEFL instead. The Goethe-Institut in Beirut offers TestDaF and official Goethe exams (A1 through C2).

Question 4

What is uni-assist and do I need to apply through it?

Accepted Answer

uni-assist is a centralized portal many German universities use to evaluate foreign credentials. Not every university requires it — always check your target university website first. Fees are approximately €75 for the first university and €30 for each additional. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks so apply early.

Question 5

What is the Studienkolleg and do I need it?

Accepted Answer

The Studienkolleg is a one-year preparatory course required if your Lebanese baccalaureate is not recognized as equivalent to the German Abitur. After completing it you pass a Feststellungsprüfung (assessment exam) before applying to university. Check with your target university whether your specific Lebanese baccalaureate requires it.

Question 6

How long does the full German student visa process take from Lebanon?

Accepted Answer

Getting a VFS appointment alone can take 3 to 6 months in Lebanon. After the appointment the decision takes 4 to 8 weeks. Start the entire process at least 6 months before your intended travel date, ideally earlier. Do not book flights before receiving your visa.

Question 7

Can I work while studying in Germany?

Accepted Answer

Yes. As a student visa holder you can work 120 full days or 240 half days per year without a separate work permit. Jobs on campus (Hiwi positions) are very common. Working more than the allowed days requires approval from the Ausländerbehörde.

Question 8

What is the dichiarazione di valore and where do I get it?

Accepted Answer

It is a document issued by the Italian embassy in Beirut that certifies the academic value of your Lebanese qualifications. Submit your original Lebanese baccalaureate and transcripts to the Italian embassy. Processing takes several weeks. Request it as early as possible since it is required before pre-enrollment.

Question 9

How does Italian pre-enrollment (pre-iscrizione) work?

Accepted Answer

Before applying for an Italian student visa you must pre-enroll through the Italian embassy in Beirut. The window typically opens in January or February each year. You submit documents to the embassy which forwards them to your chosen university. Spots are limited — apply on the first day the window opens.

Question 10

Do I need to know Italian to study in Italy?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the program. Many universities offer English-taught bachelor and master programs, especially Politecnico di Milano and Bocconi. For Italian-taught programs you need at least B2 Italian. The Italian Cultural Institute in Beirut offers language courses and CILS or CELI certification exams.

Question 11

How do I book a visa appointment at the German embassy in Beirut?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your program. Applicants to German-taught university programs, Ausbildung, and language courses (Sprachkurs) apply directly at the German Embassy in Beirut. Only applicants to English-taught university programs apply through VFS Global. Slots fill up very fast — book as early as possible, especially after summer. The visa fee is €75. Processing takes 4 to 8 weeks after the appointment.

Question 12

How much money do I need in the blocked account (Sperrkonto)?

Accepted Answer

Currently €11,904 — that is €992 per month for 12 months. The German government reviews this amount periodically. Popular providers Lebanese students use are Fintiba and Coracle. Once in Germany you may only withdraw €992 per month.

Question 13

What documents do I need for a German student visa?

Accepted Answer

Valid passport, biometric photo, completed application form, university admission letter (Zulassungsbescheid), blocked account proof (Sperrkonto, ~€11,904), health insurance certificate, German language certificate (B2 or C1 for German-taught programs), certified translations of Lebanese baccalaureate and transcripts, and proof of accommodation if available.

Question 14

What income proof do I need for an Italian student visa?

Accepted Answer

You need to prove access to about €10,179 per year. This can be a bank statement in your name, a sponsor letter with their bank statement, or a scholarship award letter. Check the Italian embassy Beirut website for the current required amount as it updates annually.

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