Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students

Samarpita Goswami
Updated on Feb 11, 2023 9:00 PM IST

Student Living Cost in Germany

An important aspect of studying abroad is the costs associated with it, including the tuition fees, monthly or yearly costs along with daily costs. Being one of the larger members of the EU, Germany is a popular destination for higher education, thus, the costs of living also become higher.

When compared o a few European Union member states, Germany may seem an inexpensive destination for study. However, the average cost of living in Germany is higher than the average in the European Union. Therefore, you must have stable and good financial backing before pursuing higher education in Germany.

Like any other country, the prices and the average costs of living will vary depending on the location of the university and the city you choose to live in. However, it is commonly noticed that renting accommodation will be the most expensive aspect of living in Germany.

As per reports and statistics, international students living in Germany may have to shell out anywhere between EUR 800 - EUR 1,000 a month. The average cost that is incurred by students on a monthly basis is around EUR 867, or EUR 10,332 per year. 

Since January 2023 DAAD expects students to demonstrate funds of  EUR 934 per month or EUR 11,208 per year.

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Average Monthly Expenses for an International Student in Germany

The monthly living cost in Germany entails payment for rent, food, grocery, utilities, travel, clothing, recreational activities and several other miscellaneous expenses related to everyday living. Also, the costs vary for different cities and states of the country. One must note that the average cost in Germany is comparatively lower than in several other European countries such as Denmark, Sweden and Luxembourg. On average, an international student generally spends EUR 725 a month. If the accommodation is affordable and students know to budget, they can easily manage this amount of money. 

The chart below tries to give an approximation of the average cost of living in Germany: 

Item/Expense

Rate

INR (As Per Exchange Rate) Approx.

Rent

EUR 300 - EUR 700

  • Depending on the choice of accommodation such as student halls, shared rooms or rooms in a flat to one-bed flats in the city

INR 26,500 - INR 62,500

Food and Drinks

EUR 150 - EUR 250

  • Depending on the city and the type of food and drinks ordered

INR 12,200 - INR 22,000

Travelling

EUR 100 - EUR 150

  • Depending on the distance between the student accommodation and the university and the availability of basic facilities.

Up to INR 13,500

Health Insurance

EUR 95 - EUR 115 per month

  • Depending on the Insurance provider

INR 8,400 - INR 10,000

Utilities

EUR 150 - EUR 300

  • Basic utilities including the internet, mobile and Tv expenses along with others

INR 12,000 - INR 25,000

Personal Expenses

EUR 50 - EUR 200

  • Depending on the lifestyle you choose to live in Germany.

INR 4,400 - INR 17,700

Total Expense

EUR 750 - EUR 1715 per month

INR 66,000 - INR 1,52,500

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.

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Student Education Cost in Germany

As a popular destination for 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 to the Bachelors and Masters programmes offered in Public Universities. Instead of the tuition fees, students are required to pay administrative fees which 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 requirements. 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.

University Type

Tuition/Administrative Fee

INR (As Per Exchange Rate) Approx

Public University

EUR 250 - EUR 300

INR 22,000 - INR 26,500

Private University

EUR 20,000 - EUR 35,000

INR 17,30,000 - INR 31,10,000

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

It should be noted that there are universities that 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.

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 EUR 300 - EUR 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 more expensive than other cities due to the popularity and overall wealth 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.

Students get several affordable options for accommodation. On average, students pay EUR 323 rent. The types of accommodations and their costs in Germany are given below:

Type of Accommodation 

Average Costs (in EUR)

Halls of Residence

250-300

Flat Shares

400-450

Private Accommodation

600-700

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 EUR 150 - EUR 250 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.

International students can purchase the new ‘Deutschlandticket’ or “German Ticket”, for EUR 49 or around EUR 1.60 per day which has been rolled out in January 2023. This ticket is valid on all short and medium-distance public transport and the cost is lower than the regular ones. 
 

 

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 EUR 100 - EUR 120 per month. Additionally, students will also be able to opt for private health insurance plans, which, will be comparatively expensive.

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 EUR 10,332 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 EUR 861 per month. However, they will be allowed to withdraw more money only if they have transferred a higher amount of EUR 10,332.

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

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Life in Germany as an International Student

Germany attracts people from all over the world with its low-cost education, well-developed academic infrastructure and post-study work opportunities. Adapting to new cultural norms is a major challenge faced by international students in any country. The culture, laws and traditions in Germany though are quite different and welcome students with open arms. International students have an exciting and vibrant life that is filled with opportunities at every bend. To adapt easily to the new culture and ways, it is important to know about life in Germany as an International student.

Weather

The weather in Germany is quite pleasant and students can enjoy all four seasons throughout the year. Summers are generally warm with harsh chilly winters. The fall and spring are extremely comfortable. 

Culture

Germany has a long and rich history and is in the forefront of European thoughts, politics and art for centuries. Christian values are intertwined with literature, art, politics, philosophy, reason and logic. Germans give lots of importance to family and community. People follow order and structure. The country has some of the most progressive policies as regards LGBTQ+ and human rights. 

Campus Life

German universities have a variety of student-organised clubs and societies from international clubs to sports clubs and art clubs. Different types of cultural festivals are organised every year for students from different communities. Some sports classes include activities like basketball, volleyball, pilates and sailing. Students are included in various activities such as skiing, cycling and hiking. 

Healthcare System 

It is mandatory to have health insurance in Germany. German healthcare is one the best in the world. Students can purchase private or public health insurances that will provide numerous benefits. They have to compulsorily show it when they enrol in the university. The healthcare system is based on the principle of solidarity and all people can benefit from it irrespective of their financial status. 

Accommodation

International students generally rent private accommodations while studying in Germany. They also avail of the flat-sharing opportunity. The rent in the capital city of Berlin is comparatively cheaper than in other capital cities like Paris or London. The monthly rent is between EUR 550 and 800. Students also choose to live in the dorms at the universities which are relatively cheaper. The utilities include internet/telephone connection, heating, electricity, water and home insurance. They get help from universities to easily settle down and help navigate through the paperwork of finding accommodation in the country.

Transport

The public transport in Germany is extremely punctual. There are several autobahns and intercity rail facilities. Students generally receive semester tickets that allow them to travel for free in all the public transport facilities in the city. They can also buy discounted travel cards. 

The main transport options in Germany include S-Bahn, U-Bahn, Regional trains, regional express and buses. Biking is an inexpensive mode of transport in German cities. 

Banking System

It is important to open a bank account in a German bank as soon as you arrive. The scholarships, financial aid and wages of part-time jobs are generally transferred to German bank accounts. To set up a student’s account, it is necessary to carry a passport ID, student enrollment certificate and confirmation of registration from the German Resident Registration Office. 

Language Barrier

English is widely understood in Germany and it is not difficult to communicate in the country. However, learning German is always helpful to communicate with the locals. It will also increase the opportunities to get a job later. Students can pick up the language quickly by communicating with German peers.

Part-time Jobs

International students are eligible to work part-time for 20 hours a week in Germany. They do not need to take permission from German authorities to work. The only downside is they cannot work freelance and be self-employed. Some of the popular part-time jobs in Germany are academic assistants, library supervisors, tutorial assistants, babysitters and dog walkers. 

Can you Study in Germany for Free?

Germany is an emerging study hub for international students because of its low-cost or almost free education in public universities. They guarantee students the right to learn even if the government need to bear its cost. 

Most German public universities provide education free of cost. Around 300-400 universities are providing this facility where students do not need to pay tuition fees. There are only some administrative fees that they need to incur. They need to pay a fee of around EUR 250-500 per semester. Students are also entitled to receive a bus pass, rail pass and many other benefits. However one must note that for laboratory courses and medical courses, students may pay additional fees. This no-cost education makes the country affordable to international students who do not need to pay hefty tuition fees. 

Some of the top German universities to study for free are:

How to Study in Germany for Free?

Most of the universities in Germany do not charge fees. Some of them provide tuition fee waivers and discounts while others offer scholarships that help them pay the tuition fees. To benefit from the opportunity to study in Germany for free, students must follow these steps:

  • Select Tuition-Free University: Students get the opportunity to choose from more than 300 institutions in Germany which provide free education. They need to fulfil the requirements of the university such as qualifying GMAT or GRE exam, SOP, LOR, etc. Some universities may require basic proficiency in the German language.

  • Select the Courses: There are more than 1700 courses that can be studied in Germany. Therefore it is necessary to check which ones can be studied for free. Also, students must check that the courses are offered in the English language. 

  • Check the Fees: Even if students do not need to pay tuition fees, they have to pay semester fees and other kinds of administrative charges. Besides, they have to show their bank statements and deposit money in blocked accounts therefore they must have financial backup to show.

  • Check Rent and Living Expenses: Though students do not pay tuition fees to study courses in German universities, they still need to pay rent for their accommodation and afford their stay in the country. They have several bills to pay and other miscellaneous expenses. Berlin and Cologne are comparatively cheaper than Munich or Frankfurt. Students should keep all these factors in mind. 

FAQs on Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students in 2024

Is living a social life in Germany expensive for international students?

The cost of living in Germany is considered to be above average in comparison to other EU states. However, you can choose to have an expensive lifestyle or not by deciding between the number of days you go out, where you go out and how much you spend. However, on average, you can expect to pay anywhere between €200 - €750 per month.

What is the cost of utilities in Germany for international students?

Basic utilities including internet, mobile and TV connectivity, etc can cost €150 - €300 per month. In some cases, the cost of utilities is covered under the rent that you pay for an accommodation, however, this will depend on the apartment owner and you may be required to pay for utilities separately.

How much does accommodation for international students in Germany cost?

Depending on the type of accommodation chosen by a student, accommodation costs for international students in Germany can cost anywhere between €300 - €700 per month. The rent for different accommodations will vary depending on the location, amenities offered and occupancy.

How much does it cost to buy insurance in Germany?

International students studying in Germany need to apply for health insurance, however, the costs of buying insurance is heavily discounted for students. If you choose government health insurance, you may be required to pay €100-€120 per month, whereas private health insurance will be comparatively expensive.

Is it important to have a blocked account to study in Germany?

No, it is not important to have a blocked account to study in Germany, however, there are certain requirements that should be met such as a scholarships certificate from a recognised provider, proof of financial income or status of parents, letter of commitment to guarantee that a permanent resident in German will cover the costs of the applicant till the end of their programme and a bank commitment letter.

Why do I need a blocked account when studying in Germany?

The simple answer is to showcase the financial capability of an international student to support and cover all the tuition or administrative costs of studying in Germany.

What is the tuition costs of private universities in Germany?

Unlike public universities, private universities in Germany still require their students to pay a relatively inexpensive fee ranging between €20,000 - €35,000 annually. It should be noted the tuition costs at private universities in Germany will vary between different courses and universities as well.

What is the tuition costs of public universities in Germany?

As stated above, all public universities in Germany are almost free of charge, however, students will still be required to pay the administrative fees which can amount to around €250 - €300 per semester.

What is the average monthly costs of studying in Germany?

Excluding the tuition costs, international students may be required to pay off monthly charges anywhere between €750 - €1,715 per month on average. However, the average monthly costs incurred by students will depend heavily on the lifestyle chosen by the students.

Is it expensive to live and study in Germany as an international student?

No, compared to other EU states, Germany is one of the more inexpensive countries to study in, however, the average cost of living is above average among other EU states.

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