A blocked account is a way to show that money for living costs will be available during studies in Germany. It is an immigration funding mechanism, not a scholarship or an admission decision. First identify which funding evidence the competent German authority accepts for your personal application.
Germany’s official study-visa guidance specifies at least EUR 11,904 in resources for 2026. Depending on eligibility, a scholarship or a suitable declaration of commitment can also be relevant. Do not confuse the required funding amount with the provider’s account-opening fee, monthly service charge or an optional insurance package.
Request a written breakdown of opening, ongoing, transfer and closure charges. Ask when the confirmation of blocked funds is issued, what identity checks are needed and how monthly withdrawals are activated after arrival. Compare the conditions of the exact product rather than relying on a bank’s general marketing page.
Confirm the beneficiary details independently before transferring a large amount. Check exchange-rate margins and intermediary-bank charges as well as the displayed transfer fee. Retain the account contract and transfer receipt. If a visa is refused or the study plan changes, follow the provider’s documented release and refund procedure.
The first month also needs accessible money for travel, a housing deposit, food and administration. A blocked balance does not make every expense immediately withdrawable. Keep a contingency budget and verify the authority’s current amount before you submit the application.
Sources
Updated: