How to finance your studies

How do I support myself while I'm studying? This question is crucial for many (prospective) students. In addition to the cost of rent, food and learning materials, there are also items such as the semester contribution and, in some circumstances, health insurance. Here we explain how you can plan your study costs and what options you have for financing them.

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How much does your degree programme cost?

We help you to get an overview of your costs.

Plan your study costs now

Maintenance: Plan A for financing your studies

In principle, your parents are obliged to finance your training until you complete your vocational qualification. This is regulated in the German Civil Code. No age limit is specified there, but of course you should study quickly.

We have summarised the most important information on the topic of parental support.

more on parental maintenance during studies

Your options for financing your studies

BAföG

The classic way to finance your studies. BAföG is paid half as a grant and half as an interest-free loan within the standard period of study. You can find out more about how to apply and the requirements here..

Jobbing

Work brings money. This can also make it easier to finance your studies. Here we explain what is worthwhile and where unexpected changes occur, e.g. in insurance status.

lächelnde Person in studentischem Zimmer liest BAföG-Bescheid

Scholarships

A scholarship can be a good support or an alternative to BAföG or loans. And not just for "absolute high-flyers". Maybe for you too?

Frau liest einen gerade geöffneten Brief und freut sich

Support programmes

In order to bridge short-term financial bottlenecks during your studies because the traditional financing options are not effective, some organisations have launched additional offers of help. Find out whether these organisations can help you.

Loans

A loan should be the last option and is primarily an option for students at a very advanced stage of their studies. However, cost reduction can often also be a solution. We explain which loans are possible.

Social benefits

Under certain conditions and phases of their studies, students are entitled to social benefits such as parental allowance, child supplement, citizen's allowance or housing benefit. Find out whether social benefits can help you finance your studies.

Study costs & financing