How International Students Can Fund Their Studies in Germany

Studying in Germany

Germany is popular among international students because of its low tuition fees and affordable living costs. However, many students still choose to work or plan their finances carefully to support daily expenses.

The good news is that funding your education in Germany is very possible. In fact, thousands of international students do it every year, using savings, family support, scholarships, or part-time jobs.

So, let’s understand all the common ways you can manage your finances while studying in Germany.

Common Ways to Fund Your Studies in Germany

Generally, international students use one or more of the following options:

• Parental income
• Personal savings
• Part-time work
• Scholarships
• Student loans

Let’s look at each option in simple words.

Parental Income

First of all, many students depend on their parents’ income.

If your parents earn enough, their income can be used as financial proof for your German student visa. For this, you must show:

• A bank statement
• Proof that your parents can cover your tuition and living costs

In many families, parents save money specifically for their child’s education. As a result, students can focus on studies without worrying about finances.

Personal Savings

Next, personal savings are another common option.

Many students start saving as soon as they decide to study in Germany. Even if you don’t have the full amount at first, regular savings can help you reach your goal over time.

Eventually, this money must be deposited into a German blocked account, which is required for your student visa.

So, the earlier you start saving, the easier the process becomes.

Part-Time Employment

In addition to savings and family support, many international students work part-time.

In fact, more than 60% of international students in Germany work while studying.

New Work Rules for Students (From March 1, 2024)

Thanks to updates under the Skilled Worker Immigration Law:

• Students can work 140 full days or 280 half days per year
• OR up to 20 hours per week

This gives students more flexibility to earn money.

Types of Part-Time Jobs

You can work:

• On-campus (labs, libraries, student services)
• Off-campus (restaurants, shops, babysitting, etc.)

Some common jobs include:

• Tutoring
• Academic assistant
• University lab work
• Waiting tables
• Bartending
• Museum staff
• Newspaper delivery
• Babysitting

Moreover, working in your field of study (like a lab job for science students) can also improve your career profile.

Scholarships

Another excellent way to fund your education is through scholarships.

Germany offers many scholarships to talented and motivated international students. These scholarships help reduce financial stress and, in some cases, cover most expenses.

Deutschlandstipendium

One popular scholarship is the Deutschlandstipendium.

• Students receive €300 per month
• €150 is paid by private companies
• €150 is matched by the German government
• Usually awarded for two semesters, but sometimes for the full course

Although the funding comes from the government and private partners, universities select the students, and each university has its own criteria.

DAAD Scholarships

The DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) is one of the largest scholarship providers.

Since 1925, DAAD has:

• Supported international students and researchers
• Helped over millions of students worldwide
• Funded more than 131,000 scholars in a single year

DAAD scholarships are highly respected and cover various study levels

Erasmus+ Program

Furthermore, the Erasmus+ program allows students to:

• Study in Germany for a few semesters
• Or complete an entire course

While some funds are paid directly, others cover:

• Living costs
• Travel expenses
• Academic support

Many German universities participate in Erasmus exchanges.

Expatrio Scholarship

Expatrio also offers scholarships for international students.

• 1st prize: €15,000
• 2nd prize: €12,000
• 3rd prize: €9,000
• Additional prizes for other winners

Applicants must submit a creative video answering a specific question.
Only students who applied for the Expatrio Value Package are eligible.

Privately Funded Scholarships

Besides government programs, there are private scholarships named after famous German leaders and organizations.

Some popular ones include:

Max Planck Society Scholarships

• For researchers, doctoral students, and postdocs

Get in touch with SPS Global

Receive advice on any of your questions regarding Immigration Get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).