Studying in Germany is so favorable

Studying in Germany is so favorable

When Germany is compared with member states of the European Union, it turns out that Germany is much cheaper than previously thought.

If you want to study in Germany, you should consider the financial part. But you don’t have to worry too much about that, because life in Germany is much cheaper than in similarly countries.

Germany in comparison

When Germany is compared with member states of the European Union, it turns out that Germany is much cheaper than previously thought. According to current statistics, Germany is just above the average. The monthly expenditures are thereby with approx. 850 euro. However, this is the average; studying in large cities such as Munich is somewhat more expensive. On the other hand, studying in cities such as Leipzig is somewhat cheaper. You can orientate yourself to the 850 Euro, but you can also cope with less. The following enumeration shows the best-known costs.

  1. Student and tuition fees
  2. Accommodation
  3. Health insurance
  4. Food
  5. Transport
  6. Flight

Student and tuition fees

The student fee is not the same as the tuition fees. The student fee must always be paid. Depending on the different service included by the universities, the sum differs. The average student fee is 250 Euro per semester.

On the other hand, you do not have to pay tuition fees for most Bachelor and Master courses in Germany. Studying, even for non-EU citizens, is therefore free of charge, except for the federal state of Baden-Württemberg. From the winter semester 2017/18, not EU citizens will have to pay an amount of 1,500 euros per semester for their studies (Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree, German “Diploma” degree, state examination). Students who started their studies before the winter semester 2017/18 are excluded from the rule.

It is best to check with the university the amount of the semester fee and if you have to pay any. It is important to note that the quality of your studies does not depend on the amount of the semester fee.

Accommodation

The apartment will be the most expensive for you. The costs for the apartment vary depending on where you live. For example, you pay about 560 euros for an apartment in Munich. In other cities you can find apartments starting at 290 Euro.

Tip to save money! You could live in a student hall or maybe think of moving on a shared flat (WG).

The health insurance

If you are not insured in Germany with your current health insurance, you will need health insurance for Germany. You can choose between public and private health insurance. Public health insurance contributions have recently increased again to around 83 euros if you are not older than 30 or finished your 14th semester. On the other hand, private health insurance contributions are just as cheap as before.

Food

In Germany you don’t have to worry about food. Whether you want to eat in the university cafeteria or prefer to cook yourself, both options are very inexpensive. The Technical University in Munich is one of the best universities in Germany. Students pay between 1.55 and 5.50 euros for a lunch with side dish.

Transport

Sometimes you don’t have to pay for transportation to the university. It may be part of the student fee and has already been paid. So, you can use public transport for 6 months free of charge. In case there is no ticket included in the student fee or you live far away from the university, you have to buy a ticket. Unless you drive to the university by car.

Tip to save money! If you live in a student hall or near the university, you could walk or cycle by bike.

Flight

Fortunately, you only have to pay twice for your flight ticket. Once to start your studies and a second time after your studies to return home. If you want to fly home during the semester, the amount will increase accordingly.

Tip to save money! If you don’t live far away from the university, you can also use other transport opportunities such as bus or train.

The cost at a glance

Average Monthly Expenses for Students
Average
Apartment
323 €
Food & drink
168 €
Travel costs (car or public transport)
94 €
Health Insurance
80 €
Leisure activities, sports & culture
61 €
Clothing
42 €
TV, Internet & Phone
31 €
Learning materials
20 €