Financial Barrier Grows for Moroccan Students Aspiring to Study in Germany

Effective September 2024, Germany will increase the financial requirement for international students, including Moroccans, aiming to pursue their education in the country. The revised blocked account threshold will rise from €11,208 to €11,904 annually.

Starting September 1, 2024, international students planning to study in Germany will need to demonstrate a minimum balance of €11,904 for the first year in a German Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) to qualify for a student visa. This new amount translates to €992 per month, up from the current €934 per month, which remains valid until August 2024.

According to “Studying-in-Germany.org,” the blocked account requirement acts as proof to German authorities that a student has sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay. This account, mandatory for non-EU/EEA students intending to study in Germany, ensures that students can cover their living expenses throughout their academic tenure.

Students are advised to initiate the process of opening a blocked account as soon as they receive their university admission letters to avoid any potential delays. The funds in this account are locked and released in monthly installments, ensuring that students have a steady flow of money to support their expenses in Germany.

Upon arrival, students must activate their blocked account by registering their address and obtaining a residence permit. They will also need to open a regular German bank account to receive monthly allowances from the blocked account.

The blocked account requirement is determined based on the BAföG rate, Germany’s student financial aid program. The deposit reflects the minimum amount necessary to prove financial capability for obtaining a student visa.

The announcement of the increased financial requirement has sparked a range of reactions among Moroccans on social media. While some acknowledge that such increases are routine and expected, others express concerns about the financial burden it imposes.

Critics argue that the new requirement of €11,904 is substantial and may be challenging for many families to afford, especially considering Morocco’s economic conditions. Some suggest that with such funds, individuals might find it more advantageous to invest in local projects within Morocco rather than pursuing education abroad.

This development highlights the financial challenges faced by aspiring Moroccan students wishing to study in Germany, raising questions about accessibility and the broader implications for international education.