Cost of Living In Germany For Indian Students

Germany is one of the most popular European study destination and is one of the Indian students' preferred destinations next to the Western countries. The Indian student population has grown by over a significant 26% totalling to 42,997 for the winter semester alone, in the year 2023. The major factor that drives this decision is the cost of Living in Germany, which costs only EUR 10,200 to 12,000 per year.

Major cities of Germany have an affordable cost of living except in expensive cities like Munich and Berlin. The important costs like accommodation, food, transportation, utilities, and bills are completely affordable if students carefully choose their lifestyle and preferences in Germany.

Here is an overview of the Cost of Living in Germany that includes all major costs for Indian students to consider:

The total cost per month would be approximately 825 - 1255 EUR. Over a year, this would amount to approximately 9900 - 12,060 EUR.

Tuition Fees in Germany for International Students

Similar to every country in the world, Germany too has both types of Universities. The first is the government/state-funded called Public Universities and the other are the Private Universities, owned by non-governmental people or organisations.

Public Universities in Germany are completely free for both domestic and international students. The reason is, Germany considers higher education a good cause and all 16 states of Germany support this and have cancelled tuition fees for UG students at all public universities.

But studying in Private Universities costs a decent amount of tuition fee. The tuition fee in these universities ranges from EUR 10,000 to 20,000 depending on the degree and the course. Sometimes the tuition fee can also go above EUR 20,000 at certain private universities. For example, the tuition fees can be in the range of EUR 30,000 for UG programs and EUR 40,000 for PG programs.

Also Read:  Public vs Private Universities in Germany

Note: In Baden-Württemberg, non-European students are required to pay tuition fees of €1,500 each semester choosing to study in public universities, as the state is an exception.

Accommodation: Types and Average Costs

There are many accommodation types for international students choosing to study in Germany: Halls of Residence(Dormitories), Shared Flats, Private Accommodation and short-stay accommodation. These accommodation costs range from as low as EUR 200 and can go to EUR 300 per month.

When choosing an accommodation option, students have to consider critical factors: Location cost, amenities, safety, and public transportation. When all of these boxes are checked, students can go ahead with the option that fits their budget and preferences.

The cost for different types of accommodation in German cities:

Here are some of the housing costs for popular cities in Germany:

Cost of Living in Student-Friendly Cities to Study in Germany

There are many affordable cities in Germany that makes students' lives a breeze. German cities like Munich, Berlin, Aachen, Stuttgart and Dresden are mostly preferred by international students and are very popular among them. Here students can experience academic excellence, cultural richness, high quality of life, top-notch healthcare, etc.

Here we have given the most affordable student-friendly cities in Germany with their average cost of living per month:

Daily Living Costs in Germany for Indian Students

As mentioned above, Munich is one of the most expensive cities in Germany. The average expense can come from around EUR 1000 to EUR 1200, but don't worry; you will find several ways to cut down your expenses. It is no joke that accommodation costs make a huge chunk of the total expenses. At the same time, you can choose to live in a student hall or private apartment as per your financial situation. The average expenses in Munich are listed in the table below.

Health Insurance for Students in Germany

It has been mandated that international students must buy health insurance to study in Germany. Students can choose either the public health insurance or the private health insurance.

Public Health Insurance in Germany

Germany discounts a certain amount for international students while they purchase their health insurance. The amount starts from EUR 110 per month. It also varies based on students' age:

• Students aged 23 have to pay EUR 120 per month.
• Students aged above 23 have to pay EUR 125 per month.
• Students aged 30 and above do not get any discounts and must pay EUR 222 each month.

Private Health Insurance In Germany

Private Health Insurance starts at EUR 33 per month and extends above EUR 59 per month. Students above age 40 and if any existing health issues need to pay EUR 130 per month.

Note: International students cannot switch between private to public health insurance during their studies. Therefore it is important to make a wise decision when choosing a health insurance. Also to make their journey to Germany smooth, it is necessary to have an health insurance in place.

Budgeting the Cost of Living in Germany as an Indian Student

• Pre-plan your journey: Do a research on the German cities and choose the one that fits your educational needs.
• Accommodation: When it comes to accommodation, choose a housing option that is affordable and student-friendly.
• Food: It is always a better idea to cook in your space instead of dining outside.
• Transportation: To save your money use only public transportation and utilise student discounts.
• Healthcare: Choose a health plan that perfectly fits your health needs.
• Part-time job: There are many part time jobs available for Indian students in Germany. By taking a part-time job, you can support your living expenses.

Studying in Germany is a wise investment for your future which you can achieve with minimal investment. Though the cost of living in Germany varies by the city you choose, a planned and careful budgeting can make your education journey much more affordable. 

Ready to transform your life with an unforgettable study experience in Germany?  Reach out to AECC, your companion in this exciting journey, to turn your German dreams into reality! 

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