Halil Yaprakli
Founder & CEO
Writes on German visa, application process and general student guidance; sets the overall editorial direction.
Expertise
Languages
Years of experience
8+ years
Articles by Halil Yaprakli
uni-assist Application — VPD, Common Rejection Reasons & Solutions
80% of Turkish high-school/university graduates apply to Germany through uni-assist. What a VPD (Vorprüfungsdokumentation) is, who issues it, and why it gets rejected — a step-by-step guide with real community mistakes.
Bachelor's or Master's in Germany? Difficulty, Language, Jobs, and the 3-Attempt Exam Rule
Wondering if it's harder to pursue a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Germany as a non-EU student? This guide compares the two, covering language, job prospects, and critical rules like the 3-attempt exam policy and freelancing restrictions.
Aiming for University in Germany? A New Top 10 List for Just Dropped!
Shiksha has released a new list of the top 10 public universities in Germany for international students planning to study in 2026. While specifically aimed at students from India, this ranking can be a great starting point for anyone considering thei...
Germany's New Chancenkarte: Your Path to a Job in Germany
Germany launched the 'Chancenkarte' (Opportunity Card) in June 2024 to simplify the job search for international professionals. With this new visa, you can now come to Germany without a prior job offer and...
Berlin or Hamburg? Which City to Study in, in Germany?
Berlin or Hamburg? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, Berlin (startups/tech, arts, medicine/Charité, ~€664 rent) vs Hamburg (port/media/TUHH, ~€626 rent), job market, living and character compared + a quick "which fits you" d…
10 Things I Wish Someone Told Me Before Moving to Germany (Real Life After Arriving)
Everyone talks about how to study in Germany, but what's it really like once you're here? This guide shares 10 honest truths from international students about jobs, money, loneliness, and more after arriving.
Schufa Guide: Why is Credit Score Important for Turkish Students?
Are you a new Turkish student in Germany, and 'Schufa' is one of your biggest worries? Landlords demand a Schufa-Auskunft, phone contracts are rejected, and you face high deposits and guarantor searches. This guide is for you!
Munich or Stuttgart? Which City to Study in, in Germany?
Munich or Stuttgart? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, Munich (engineering/TUM-LMU, ~€837 rent — most expensive in Germany) vs Stuttgart (automotive/Mercedes-Porsche-Bosch/DHBW, ~€640 rent), job market and living compared +…
Germany's Waste Separation Rules: Your Essential Student Guide
Navigating waste separation in Germany can feel overwhelming at first, but it's crucial for living harmoniously and avoiding fines. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about sorting your trash, from color-coded bins to the Pfand system...
Student Visa Interview: Common Questions and How to Prepare
What you are asked in the German student visa interview, which documents are essential, the most common rejection reasons, and how to prepare — a step-by-step guide.
Student Work Permit in Germany: 20-Hour Rule and Types of Jobs
Do you want to work as a student in Germany? In this guide, take the first step by learning about the 20-hour rule and the differences between Minijob and Werkstudent.
Is Tuition-Free University in Germany a Reality? Your Application Guide and Requirements!
Great news for international students dreaming of studying in Germany: Most public universities offer tuition-free education. But how can you take advantage of this incredible opportunity? Let's break down the application process and what you need to...
The Reality of Germany's Job Market After Graduation (A Degree ≠ A Job)
Thinking about working in Germany after you graduate? The job market here is tougher than you might expect, even for Germans. Companies prioritize practical skills and German language proficiency over just a prestigious degree.
Stores Closed on Sundays in Germany: Your Student Survival Guide
You've just arrived in Germany, it's your first Sunday, and your fridge is completely empty. Don't panic! Understanding why stores close on Sundays and knowing your options will make your life much easier.
Student Career Guide in Germany: Work Permits, Job Types & Salary Deductions
Working while studying in Germany is a fantastic opportunity to boost your finances and kickstart your career. It's normal to have questions about legal work permits, different job types like Minijob and Werkstudent, salary deductions, and steps afte...
Bringing Family to Germany with a Student Visa — Turkish Student Guide
It is possible to go to Germany with your spouse and children or to bring them to you later. Deciding which process to start from Turkey is critical, as joint application and family reunification are two different paths.
How to Find and Apply for an Ausbildung in Germany From Abroad
How do you find an Ausbildung placement in Germany from abroad? Where to look (IHK/HWK Lehrstellenbörse, Bundesagentur), how to apply, and the §16a visa steps — a realistic, honest guide.
Germany Student Visa: Application Steps, Documents, Rejection
Germany student visa application: Sperrkonto 11,904 €, health insurance ~120 €/month, 75 € visa fee. Consulate appointment 4-12 weeks, decision 6-12 weeks. Reasons for rejection + Remonstration appeal guide.
Popular Jobs in Germany: Where to Find the Details?
International students often wonder about job opportunities and popular professions in Germany. We couldn't find these details in one source, so how can you access the right information?
Germany Consulate Visa Appointment — Waiting Times and City Strategy
Waiting times for 36F/41.f student visa appointments at German consulates in Turkey have increased to 2-6 months. Which city is faster, iDATA or direct consulate, how to open an appointment — a strategic guide with real community experiences.
Germany Visa Application Goes Online: Faster, Easier Process!
If you're planning to study in Germany or work there, the visa application process is now much simpler and faster thanks to an online portal launched in January 2025. This system, active at most German embassies by 2026, cuts down on lengthy paperwor...
Germany Family Reunion Visa Application and After
Learn the step-by-step application process for the German family reunion visa. This guide covers what you need to do upon arrival in Germany and afterwards.
Cultural Adaptation in Germany: Navigating Respect and Politeness in University and Daily Life
For a smooth transition into university and daily life in Germany, understanding cultural codes is key. This guide helps you navigate communication, build respectful relationships, and avoid common pitfalls.
City or University? Which Matters More When You Study in Germany
When planning to study in Germany, is the city or the university more important? The city often dictates your cost of living, job opportunities, and social life — often more than the university's ranking. This guide helps you weigh both factors.
Bochum or Dortmund? Which City to Study in, in Germany?
Bochum or Dortmund? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, in the Ruhr region Bochum (IT security/RUB, ~€368 rent) vs Dortmund (engineering/TU Dortmund/logistics, affordable Ruhr average rent), job market, living and regional tra…
Germany Family Reunion Visa: Who Can Apply?
Do you want to bring your spouse or child to Germany? This guide explains the basics of the family reunion visa and who can apply.
Cologne or Düsseldorf? Which City to Study in, in Germany?
Cologne or Düsseldorf? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, Cologne (media/RTL/Sport University, ~€688 rent) vs Düsseldorf (fashion/Japanese hub/finance, ~€557 rent), job market, living and atmosphere compared + a quick "which…
Your Complete Guide to the German Sponsorship Letter (Verpflichtungserklärung)
Wondering about the German sponsorship letter (Verpflichtungserklärung) for your student visa? This 2026 guide covers who can provide it, income requirements, necessary documents, costs, and the sponsor's legal responsibilities, addressing real quest...
Is University Free in Germany? Real Costs
In 14 Bundesländer, public Universitäten are free, while Baden-Württemberg charges non-EU students 1,500 €/semester. Your actual annual budget, including living costs, will be between 12,500–15,940 €. See the full table, Bundesland comparison, and scholarship options.
Germany Blue Card: Comprehensive Guide for Graduates
Are you about to complete your university education in Germany and planning your future? While an 18-month post-graduation job search visa sounds appealing, the strongest and fastest way to build a permanent future in Germany is the **Blue Card**!
Uni-Assist Application Guide A-Z: Reach Your Germany University Dream Step by Step
To make your dream of studying at a Universität in Germany a reality, learn all about the Uni-Assist application processes from A to Z. All details, from required documents to VPD, from costs to application deadlines, are in this comprehensive guide!
The "English is Enough, German is Not Required" Myth: The Hard Truth for Jobs in Germany
You might hear that English is enough in Germany, but for most full-time jobs, B2/C1 German is essential. Even in English-speaking roles, cultural fit matters, and practical experience (Werkstudent) often outweighs grades.
Before Your Consulate Appointment: How the German Student Visa Process Works ( Guide)
Got your university admission and sorted out your finances? Now it's time for your visa application. This guide walks you through the German student visa process step-by-step, including real questions from our community.
Mannheim or Heidelberg? Which City to Study in, in Germany?
Mannheim or Heidelberg? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, Mannheim (#1 in business/economics, ~€502 rent) vs Heidelberg (oldest university/medicine/research, ~€670 rent), two neighbouring cities ~20 km apart, job market and…
Why ApplyToGerman (AlmanyaUni) Exists: An Open Letter from the Founder
For Turkish students, the path to Germany should turn from a dream into a plan — with clear steps, official sources, and community-tested experience. That is why ApplyToGerman (AlmanyaUni) exists.
Dresden or Leipzig? Which City to Study in, in Germany?
Dresden or Leipzig? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, Dresden (engineering/microelectronics, TU Dresden, ~€499 rent) vs Leipzig (broad university, young creative scene, ~€442 rent), job market and living compared + a quick "…
Getting Your Kaution (Deposit) Back and Tenant Rights in Germany
In Germany the deposit (Kaution) is capped at three months' cold rent, held separately and refunded minus justified deductions. Handover protocol, rent reduction and refund rights.
What to Do After German Student Visa Refusal? Remonstration (Appeal) Guide
Have your dreams of Germany been shattered by a visa refusal letter? We understand the frustration and uncertainty you feel when faced with vague reasons like "insufficient funds," "suspicious intent," or "missing documents."
What Is an Ausbildung in Germany? Dual Training Guide
What an Ausbildung is, dual vs. school-based, who it suits, duration and the Gesellenbrief, the §16a visa for foreigners and the B1-B2 language requirement — an honest guide to paid dual vocational training.
Bremen or Hannover? Which City to Study in, in Germany?
Bremen or Hannover? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, Bremen (maritime/aerospace + port, ~€504 rent) vs Hannover (engineering + MHH medicine + central transport, ~€477 rent), job market and living compared + a quick "which f…
Leaving Germany Checklist: Abmeldung, Cancellations and Money to Reclaim
Step-by-step checklist for leaving Germany: Abmeldung, insurance/contract cancellations and money to reclaim (deposit + pension contributions).
German Turkish Associations Student Guide: Community & Mentorship
Guide to Turkish Associations and Student Communities in Germany 2026: Don't Be Alone! Have you just arrived in Germany, or have you been here for a while and are still struggling to find 'your people', looking for answers to practical questions, or...
Bureaucracy Guide for New Students in Germany: Your First Steps and Key Institutions
Just arrived in Germany as a student? This guide walks you through the essential first official steps like city registration, health insurance, and getting your residence permit, plus introduces you to key public offices you'll interact with.
Germany's Student Work Limits Increased: You Can Earn More Now!
International students in Germany can now work up to 140 full days a year, up from 120. This change means you can earn more and gain valuable career experience while studying.
Your Guide to Master's Degrees in Germany: Top Universities and How to Apply
A new guide has been released for international students looking to pursue a master's degree in Germany. This resource offers key information on applications and the best universities.
TestAS Guide: Is it Necessary for Turkish Students, How to Prepare?
Are you a Turkish student dreaming of university in Germany? This guide will help you understand what TestAS means for you, how to prepare, and how it can give you an advantage on your path to Germany.
Sperrkonto Usage: Different Visa and Scholarship Situations, Extension
Discover the specific requirements of a Sperrkonto for different visa types and students receiving scholarships. Secure your life in Germany by learning about blocked account top-up and visa extension processes.
German Consulates Contact Information: Ankara, Istanbul, Izmir
Need to contact the German consulates in Turkey? Here's the latest contact information for the German Embassy in Ankara and the Consulates General in Istanbul and Izmir, including phone, fax, visa email, address, and official website links. All detai...
Conditional Admission (Bedingte Zulassung) in Germany: Your Guide for Bachelor's and Master's
Conditional admission (bedingte Zulassung) lets you start your study journey in Germany even if your language certificate isn't ready. This guide covers how to get it for Bachelor's and Master's, what happens if you need more time for C1, and if you...
Sperrkonto for a German Visa: What is it, How Much, and How to Open it?
To realize your dream of studying in Germany, learn what a Sperrkonto is, why it's necessary, and the current amount for 2025. Discover the blocked account opening process step-by-step and take the first step by choosing the right bank.
Izmir Consulate: Auslandsportal (digital.diplo.de) Email Process — Latest Update
The Izmir German Consulate's Auslandsportal (digital.diplo.de) 'email process' involves applicants who receive an email canceling their iDATA appointment and applying through the portal for priority. This guide covers three critical warnings and a st...
You Have a Job Offer → Germany Work Visa: Steps & Real Timeline
How long does a German work visa take with a job offer? The old "1 year" (iDATA queue) fell with the 2024–2025 changes. With the accelerated skilled worker procedure (§81a) the visa part takes ~4–6 weeks, the standard route ~3 months. Step-by-step pr…
Frankfurt or Hamburg? Which City Should You Study in, in Germany?
Frankfurt or Hamburg? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, Frankfurt (finance/Goethe, ~€734 rent) vs Hamburg (port/media/TUHH, ~€626 rent), job market, living and travel-to-Turkey compared + a quick "which fits you" decision gu…
The Real Cost of Being a Student in Germany: Your Budget Reality Check (Bring a Buffer)
Depositing your annual funds into a blocked account is one thing; actually living in Germany is another. Students who underestimate their budget often struggle in the first few months, so this guide reveals the financial truths no one tells you befor...
Germany Bachelor Application: Complete Flow Guide for Turkish High School Graduates
Are you a Turkish high school graduate dreaming of university in Germany? This guide provides an A-to-Z roadmap for all Turkish students applying for a Bachelor's degree in Germany for 2026, simplifying the complex process.
Switching from Study to Ausbildung (Vocational Training) in Germany: Now Possible
In Germany you can switch into vocational training while studying — even during study preparation (Studienkolleg/conditional admission) — and change your residence permit. §16a requirements: a training contract + Federal Employment Agency approval; t…
Aachen or Karlsruhe? Which City to Study Engineering in Germany?
Aachen or Karlsruhe? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, Aachen (RWTH/mechanical-electrical eng., ~€521 rent) vs Karlsruhe (KIT/CS-IT, ~€570 rent), reputation, living and location compared + a quick "which fits you" decision g…
Freiburg or Tübingen? Which City to Study in, in Germany?
Freiburg or Tübingen? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, Freiburg (green/medicine/environment, ~€644 rent) vs Tübingen (humanities/neuroscience/AI, ~€526 rent), atmosphere, living and cost compared + a quick "which fits you"…
Germany Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) Update: How Much Money Do You Need?
Planning to study in Germany in 2026? The updated blocked account (Sperrkonto) rules and amount are here. You'll need about 11,208 Euros annually in this account, which is key for proving financial stability during your visa application.
Deutschlandticket: Price, Coverage and the Student Semester Ticket
From January 2026 the Deutschlandticket costs €63/month for regional and local transport. Students get the Deutschlandsemesterticket (~€34.80/month) via the Semesterbeitrag.
APS Certificate Turkey: Germany University Guide
Are you a Turkish student dreaming of studying at a university in Germany? This guide will answer all your questions about the Akademische Prüfstelle (APS), its requirements, and the application process for 2026, helping you take the first step towar...
Best Student Cities in Germany: Which One Is Right for You?
A new list ranking the best student cities in Germany for international students has just been released. This guide can be a valuable resource for anyone dreaming of studying at a German university.
Ausbildung in Germany: Salary, Life and the Path to Permanent Residence
How much does an Ausbildung pay, can you live on it, and how does the route via Übernahme and a skilled-worker permit lead to permanent residence (Niederlassungserlaubnis)? An honest 2026 guide.
Berlin or Munich? Which City to Study in, in Germany?
Berlin or Munich? A no-winner, decision-framework guide: subject before city, Berlin (start-ups/arts/FU-HU-TU, ~€664 rent) vs Munich (engineering/TUM-LMU, ~€837 rent — most expensive city), job market and living compared + a quick "which fits you" de…
How to Get a German Visa Appointment? The iDATA Ordeal and Quick Solutions
Are you having difficulty getting a Germany visa appointment? Long waiting times at iDATA and concepts like iVisa can be confusing. In this guide, you will find the Germany student visa appointment process and strategies to shorten waiting times.
The Most In-Demand Ausbildung Fields in Germany
The most sensible Ausbildung fields for internationals in Germany: IT/Fachinformatiker, mechatronics, electronics, hospitality and SHK as shortage occupations — salary table and honest advice (2026).
University Education in Germany: Your Start Guide
Essential information for international students who want to pursue a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Germany: the system, fees, application timeline, and choosing the right university.