Convert Schengen tourist visa to German study visa

No, you cannot change a Schengen tourist visa to a German study visa while staying in Germany. The general rule is that you must apply for a national visa (D visa) for study purposes from your home country or a country where you have legal residence.

Exceptions:

If you already hold a long-term national visa (e.g., for work or family reunification), you may be able to change your visa status from within Germany.

Some specific cases may allow a visa change within Germany, but these are rare and usually require special approval from the Ausländerbehörde (Foreigners' Office).

What You Need to Do:

Return to your home country and apply for a German student visa (national visa - D).

Submit your application to the German embassy or consulate in your home country.

Once your visa is approved, you can enter Germany and then apply for a residence permit for studies.

Would you like guidance on the German student visa application process?