Cost of living in Germany as a student | Living Cost | Fees & More
German educational institutions offer affordable yet high-quality education to Indian students. For a student, living in Germany can be expensive, so obtaining a clear understanding of their day-to-day financial requirements is necessary. In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the expenses, tuition costs, and provide you with suggestions on how to manage your finances while studying in Germany. Depending on the city, your lifestyle, and how you choose to live, the overall cost of living in Germany as a student can vary.
What is the monthly Living Cost in Germany?
When trying to manage the cost of living in Germany as a student, you must be clear about the expenditure of your money on rent, food, and transport. As a student, your cost of living in Germany will depend on the region and city you choose. Here is the comparison of major German cities in terms of monthly average expenses:
Tuition Fees at Public and Private Universities
Tuition fee is one of the major concerns to study at any university. The German public universities give the advantages of educating students from EU or outside with a low or non-existent tuition fees. Check out the fee expenditure for public and private universities:
- Public Universities: German public universities offer tuition free education for most of its programs. But paying a small semester fee of €100 to €350 gives public transportation tickets to travel in the city.
- Private Universities: An amount between €10,000 to €20,000 per year for tuition is charged by Private universities. The actual fee varies with the chosen program and university. It is notable that at PFH University, tuition fees are quite low from other private institutions. Additionally, they provide value-added support to help students with academics and everyday life in Germany.
Breakdown of Cost of Living in Germany as a Student
The average cost of living for a student in Germany is much lower than other study locations making it a good choice for Indian students. Knowing the average cost helps students plan their money.
- Rent is the biggest cost. Student dormitories cost less than private apartments.
- Cooking at home saves money. Monthly groceries cost about €150 to €250.
- Students get cheaper public transport passes as a part of their semester fee.
- Health insurance is required for all students that costs about €110 each month.
- Other costs include books, fun, and personal items. These add up to about €100 to €200 each month.
Average Living Cost in Germany for International Students
The average cost of living for a student in Germany has not changed much over past few years and is same for International as well as local students. To manage accommodation, health insurance, food, transportation, and other expenses €850 to €1,200 are required each month.
Cost of Living in Germany as a student Vs the US
For Indian students wishing to study abroad, it’s good to compare the cost of living in Germany for students and the USA.
Money Saving Tips for International Students
- Leipzig or Dresden are affordable cities than Munich or Frankfurt.
- Use student IDs to get discounts for traveling, museums, and cinemas.
- Cook at Home- Cooking at home is less expensive than eating out.
- Students are allowed to take up part-time work for 120 full days or 240 half days per year.
- Access public library for free study materials and internet access.
Scholarships in Germany
Scholarship is a method to reduce the cost of living in Germany as a student. Many scholarships are available for international students to manage their living expenses in Germany:
- DAAD Scholarships: DAAD gives €934 to graduates and €1,200 to doctoral students approx. as monthly allowances.
- SBW Berlin Scholarship: Full scholarships including accommodation and living expenses are available for students that are particularly involved in social causes.
- Expatrio Scholarship: This scholarship supports international students financially with €15,000.
PFH University also offers merit and need-based scholarships to help reduce the student living cost in Germany, particularly Indian and other international students. Keep in mind that the cost of living in Germany as a student looks expensive but with smart budgeting and planning, it can be managed.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Germany as a student as compared to USA is affordable. Lesser tuition fees, affordable living costs, and scholarships available make Germany an attractive option for Indian students to get excellent higher-education. Enrolling with PFH University means that your learning is supported by excellent student services and career assistance, with cost-saving tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the cost of living in Germany is higher but can be managed if you budget your expenses and get scholarships.
Yes, student visa holders can work for up to 240 half days or 120 full days per year. This helps in reducing the living cost for international students in Germany.
Most public universities charge a small semester fee to issue ticket, but do not require tuition payments.
The cost of living in Germany as a student varies according to the city, which in general is between €850 to €1,200 per month.
Living cost for international students in Germany consists of accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses from €850 to €1,200 per month.