Studying in Germany remains one of the top choices for international students. You get world-class education, a safe country, a strong job market, and the chance to study at universities with little or no tuition fees. However, before you book your flight, there’s one requirement you must understand clearly: Proof of Funds (PoF).
PoF is one of the most important and most misunderstood parts of the German student visa application. Many students underestimate the required amount, budget incorrectly, or provide incomplete financial evidence. The result? Delayed visa appointments or even outright rejection.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how much money you need, how to budget it properly, and what documents you must have when appearing for your German student visa interview. You should consider this your go-to financial roadmap for studying in Germany in 2025.
What Is Proof of Funds (PoF)?
Proof of Funds (PoF) is a financial requirement set by the German government to ensure that international students can support themselves while studying in Germany without depending on government assistance.
In simple terms, PoF shows that you have enough money to cover your living expenses for at least 1 year, including rent, food, transportation, health insurance, and necessities.
Why Proof of Funds Matters
Germany wants international students to thrive, not to struggle financially. Proof of Funds (PoF) is designed to protect both you and the country’s welfare system by ensuring you can support yourself throughout your studies.
Proper PoF planning is essential because it helps you avoid visa rejection, budget realistically for your first year, and understand the true cost of living in Germany. It also prepares you for unexpected expenses and helps you start your academic year stress-free.
The Official Amount You Must Show (2025)
For 2025, the German government requires all international students to prove they can cover their living expenses with a minimum of €11,904 per year, which equals €992 per month.
In most cases, this amount must be deposited into a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) before your visa appointment. After you arrive in Germany, the money is released to you in monthly installments to cover your living costs.
There are a few exceptions to using a blocked account. Instead of depositing the full amount, you may submit proof of a full scholarship, a bank guarantee, or verified sponsor income with bank statements. However, for the majority of international students, the Blocked Account remains the easiest, most reliable, and most widely accepted option.
If you’re applying to a private university, don’t forget that tuition fees are separate from the €11,904. You will need to add your full tuition amount to your Proof of Funds. Many students overlook this and unintentionally underbudget, which can affect their visa approval.
What the €11,904 Actually Covers (Monthly Estimate)
The official €11,904 per year, or approximately €992 per month, is an estimate of the average living costs for a student in Germany. However, your actual expenses can vary depending on the city you live in; Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, or Munich may be more expensive.
On average, rent and utilities can cost between €400 and €600 per month, food and groceries about €150 to €250, health insurance around €110 to €130, and transport plus personal expenses roughly €150 to €200. Altogether, this means most students spend between €900 and €1,200 per month, with larger cities like Munich and Frankfurt on the higher end, while smaller towns are generally more affordable.
Accepted Ways to Show Proof of Funds
While the Blocked Account is the most common option, Germany accepts other forms of PoF as well
• Blocked Account confirmation
• Parental or sponsor income + 6 months of stable bank statements
• Scholarship award letter
• Bank guarantee
Whatever method you choose, make sure the documents are clear, complete, and verifiable.
Smart Budgeting Tips for International Students
Studying abroad is a dream, but it requires planning. Here are practical budgeting tips many successful students swear by:
• Start saving early: Avoid last-minute pressure or the need to borrow at high interest.
• Avoid sudden large deposits: Embassies view unexplained deposits as unreliable. Keep your money movement clean and consistent.
• Add a 10–20% buffer: Exchange rates fluctuate. Build a safety cushion.
• Keep all receipts for transfers: This helps during verification at the embassy and upon arrival.
• If using a sponsor: Ensure their account shows stable income, not random inflows.
• Pay your semester contribution early: This strengthens your visa application and reduces your financial burden on arrival.
Germany PoF Visa Checklist
Before your visa appointment, ensure you have:
• Blocked account confirmation
• Proof of deposit
• Sponsor documents (if applicable)
• Semester fee receipt
• Valid health insurance
• Admission letter & accommodation proof (if required)
