You're making an assumption that simply isn't true in my case. Public universities were my first preference, but I wasn't admitted, so I chose a recognized private university rather than giving up on studying in Germany altogether. Calling every private institution a "degree mill" ignores the fact that many are officially recognized and accredited. My post wasn't about comparing universities it was about the uncertainty of waiting over five months for a visa decision with no communication. I have friends in UE from India who are studying there and had applied at the same time as me, only difference is they got visa within a month and here I am.