Studying in Germany in 2024/25: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Germany has announced a series of changes for 2024 and 2025, which are important for current and prospective international students studying in the country.

According to a report by Studying-in-Germany.org, the largest portal for international students seeking information about education in Germany, some of these updates include an increase in the amount required in blocked accounts for a student visa, permission to work more hours while studying, minimum wage increase and many more, Erudera.com reports.

One of the most important of these changes is the increase in the amount students should have in a blocked bank account. As of September 1, 2024, international students wishing to study in Germany must show they have €11,208 per year or €934 monthly when applying for a German student visa as proof they can cover their living expenses.

Under the new regulations, international students in Germany are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week. Previously, they were allowed to work only 10 hours per week. Prospective students can also work part-time for up to 20 per week while looking to enroll at a university.

From the beginning of this year, the minimum wage in Germany has also been raised from €12.00 to €12.41 per hour, meaning the minimum monthly gross salary for people working full time or 40 hours per week will now be €2,151.

“Another increase is planned for January 1, 2025, with the minimum wage set to rise by 41 cents to €12.82 per hour. This will bring the minimum monthly gross salary for full-time workers to €2,222,” the report by Studying-in-Germany.org explains.

Other updates include:

• The mini-job salary threshold will increase to €556 per month from January 1, 2025.
• Technical University of Munich (TUM) will charge international students tuition fees starting from the winter semester of 2024/25.
• Student tickets are cheaper now, costing €29.40 monthly, a 40 percent discount compared to the regular price.

Additionally, nearly €220 million have been allocated to Germany to support international students, staff, and student exchanges under the Erasmus+ program. In 2021, more than 27,000 Erasmus students visited Germany for study purposes, including work or internship opportunities.

Applicants who apply for or receive financial aid under the Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG) will also be subject to some changes, including an increase in the financial support rates. Under the 29th BAföG Amendment Act, which was passed on July 24, 2024, the rates have increased by 5 percent, meaning the following groups will receive :

• €855 for students under 25 years old
• €992 for 25-30 year olds
• Up to €1,088 for over 30-year-olds

Last year, according to the same source that compiled the report with these updates, the number of international students in Germany steadily increased, reaching 458,210 and making Germany the third most popular study destination.

Most international students in Germany are originally from India and China.

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