Germany is a top destination for international students, known for its affordable living costs and low tuition fees. However, many students still choose to work part-time to support themselves during their studies. With proper planning, funding your education in Germany is entirely achievable. From scholarships and parental support to savings and part-time jobs, there are several ways to make it work. Let’s explore your options!

1. Parental Support

If your parents have the financial means, their income can be used as proof of financial stability during your student visa application. A bank statement showing their ability to cover your tuition and living expenses is required. This support can also continue throughout your studies, allowing you to focus entirely on your education without financial worries.

2. Personal Savings

Personal savings can play a crucial role in funding your studies in Germany. Many international students start saving as soon as they decide to study abroad. Even if your savings aren’t enough to cover all expenses, they can still significantly contribute. Make sure to deposit your savings into a German-blocked account, which is a requirement for obtaining a student visa.

3. Part-Time Employment

Over 80% of international students in Germany work part-time to help manage their living costs. Thanks to the second phase of the Skilled Worker Immigration Law, effective March 2024, students now have even more flexibility. The law increases the limit to 140 full days or 280 half days per year, or up to 20 hours per week.

Germany offers numerous part-time job opportunities, both on and off-campus. Whether it’s tutoring, working in a university lab, or taking up roles in student services, there are plenty of options to suit your schedule and skills.

If you enroll in a public university in Germany, the tuition fees are often so low that earnings from a part-time job can cover the entire cost of your course. This is especially advantageous if you live in major cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, or Munich, where part-time job opportunities are more abundant.

4. Scholarships

Germany is a welcoming destination for international students, offering a variety of scholarships to help fund your education.

• Deutschlandstipendium: This scholarship provides €300 per month, funded by private organizations and the German government. It’s available for up to two semesters, with some cases covering the entire duration of your studies.
• DAAD Scholarships: The DAAD supports the internationalization of German universities by offering scholarships to talented students from around the world. In 2016 alone, over 131,000 scholars benefited from DAAD grants.
• Erasmus+: The largest student exchange program in Europe, Erasmus+ allows you to study in Germany and covers living expenses during your stay.
• Expatrio Scholarship: This scholarship, worth €12,000 for the winner, is offered by Expatrio, a blocked account provider in Germany. It’s open to students starting their studies in Germany in the winter semester of 2024.
• Privately Funded Scholarships: Various private organizations offer scholarships, often named after notable German figures, such as the Max Planck Society and the Heinrich Böll Foundation.

5. Student Loans

Student loans are another option for international students in Germany, with several government and private programs available.

• BAföG: This government-funded program offers grants or interest-free loans to talented students.
• Bildungskredit: A low-interest loan designed for students in higher education.
• Bank Loans: Various German banks, such as Deutsche Bank and Sparkasse, offer loan options tailored for international students.

Final Thoughts

Funding your education in Germany might seem challenging, but with a combination of scholarships, parental income, personal savings, part-time work, and student loans, it’s entirely possible. By planning ahead and exploring all available options, you can make your dream of studying in Germany a reality.