Cost of Living in Germany for International Students

Student Living Cost in Germany

Average Monthly Expenses for an International Student in Germany

Note:

• The rates defined in the table above have been mentioned as per the current exchange rate approximately and will be subject to change as per the market.

• The costs outlined in the table above are general costs and can vary according to one’s lifestyle. The costs will also vary according to the market prices at that time, location, etc.

Also Read: Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students

Student Education Cost in Germany

As a popular destination of study, Germany offers numerous universities and higher education institutions. Most of the universities established in Germany are Public Universities, however, there are private universities as well that offer globally competitive programmes.

For those planning to pursue higher education in the Public Universities of Germany, a vote in 2014 abolished the tuition fees that are charged to all students, both national and international students. This rule is applicable only for the Bachelors and Masters programmes offered in Public Universities. Instead of the tuition fees, students are required to pay administrative fees that are also known as their semester contribution.

However, Private institutions are allowed to charge their students tuition fees and are free to charge as per their requirement. In most cases, private institutions charge similar fees for programmes and are reviewed regularly for possible changes.

Here are the tuition or administrative fees that students are required to pay during their academic stay in Germany.

Note: The rates provided above have mentioned as per the current exchange rate approximately and is subject to change as per the market rate.

It should be noted that there are universities who may charge higher fees, while some may charge according to the popularity of the course. For instance, Management and Engineering courses usually attract many students, which results in a comparatively expensive programme.

Also Read: Germany 'Becomes 4th Nation with Largest Number of International Degree Students'

Accommodation Cost for International Students in Germany

Since students travelling abroad will need a place to set up camp and live for the foreseeable future, most students opt for either University Student Housing facilities or out-of University Accommodation facilities. Most universities in Germany offer students with student accommodation, usually shared and at a far cheaper rate. However, a common practice among the students is to choose out-of-university accommodation in the form of group housing, shared or single flats or even a single room.

Depending on the type of accommodation chosen by international students, the cost of renting a place for accommodation may vary between €300 - €700. It should be noted that the location of the university, i.e. the city or locality will heavily affect the pricing of such rented accommodation as well.

For instance, cities like Munich will be comparatively expensive than other cities due to the popularity and overall wealthiness of the people in the city. Thus, the less popular a city or locality is, the less expensive the accommodation at that location will be.

Also Read: Study in Germany: Timeline for Summer Intake 2021

Entertainment and Transportation Expenses

Staying in a country abroad, especially Germany, experiencing the social lifestyle, popularly followed by natives is a must. With a variety of restaurants, clubs and various other attractions, students will be able to enjoy a new and interesting culture.

Enjoying such a culture may sound expensive but on the contrary, students can experience the social life of Germany at relatively inexpensive rates. Commonly, students can spend up to €150 - €250 euros on entertainment, food and drinks in a month. However, this will depend on the lifestyle that a student chooses for themselves.

In terms of transportation, one of the greatest advantages of studying at a German University is unlimited access to transportation facilities such as trams and other public modes of transport. With a student ID from a German University, students will be able to access public transport for free. However, taxis and other forms of transport can be rather expensive.

Also Read: Number of Int'l Applications for Germany's Master’s Program Scholarships Rises by 20%

Health Insurance for International Students in Germany

With an impressive healthcare system that is recognised the world over, international students travelling to the country for higher education purposes will be required to apply for health insurance. However, students, including international students are eligible for health insurance at highly discounted rates.

Students can opt for government health insurance plans, which amount to around €100 - €120 per month. Additionally, students will also be able to opt for private health insurance plans, which, will be comparatively expensive.

Also Read: 60% of International Students Want to Remain in Germany After Graduation: Survey

Blocked Account for Proof of Financial Funds in Germany

An international student who is a resident of a non–EU or non-EEA country and wishes to study in Germany needs to prove their financial sufficiency to get a German student visa. This proof of financial adequacy can be showcased by a blocked account or an internationally-blocked bank account. 

The student visa applicant should open a blocked account before travelling to or entering Germany. It is important to check the blocked amount with the local German authorities. 

A German blocked account is a special account, in which the applicant is required to fund at least 10,332 euros in order to prove that they have enough means to finance themselves during the first year of study in Germany. This amount will be blocked in the bank until the student arrives in Germany. 

After the student has arrived in Germany, they will be allowed to withdraw a maximum of 861 euros per month. However, they will be allowed to withdraw more money only if they have transferred a higher amount tat 10,332 euros. 

How to Apply for a Blocked Account for a German Student Visa

Step 1: Find out the providers that open blocked accounts for international students going to study in Germany.

Step 2: Register online or offline, whichever is applicable, only after you have received confirmation of admission to your desired German university.

Step 3: Submit the required documents to open a blocked account in Germany: 

• Duly filled application form
• Valid passport
• University admission letter
• A prepaid fee or blocked account fees
• A bank statement confirming the student has the required amount of money to open a blocked account.

Step 4: Seek bank legalisation from the German embassy, if required.

Step 5: Deposit the required funds.

Step 6: You will be sent blocking information.

It is also to be understood that not all accounts are accepted by all German authorities. Therefore, it is to be made sure that the provider covers all of the needs along with providing the applicant with security and acceptance. 

Can an International Student Study in Germany Without a Blocked Account?

The answer is yes, an international student can study in Germany without a blocked account. However, they would have to prove their financial sufficiency by providing one of the following: 

• A scholarship certificate from a recognised provider

• A document to show the student’s parent’s income and financial status

• Letter of commitment to guarantee that a permanent resident of Germany will cover all of the expenses of the applicant until they have completed their studies in the country

• A bank guarantee letter