Cost of Living in Germany for International Students

Are you planning to study in Germany and looking for the latest information on the cost of living as an international student? You’ve come to the right place. The cost of living in Germany is generally considered mid-range compared to most major European countries.

With more international students choosing Germany for its top-ranked universities and vibrant student life, it’s natural to wonder how much it actually costs to live there.

To make this clear for international applicants, Germany has a mandatory Blocked Account requirement for student visas. This account must hold €11,904, with a monthly withdrawal limit of €992, to cover living expenses during your stay.

This official figure provides a solid starting point for understanding the cost of living in Germany. In this blog, we’ll explore this topic in detail and break down what daily expenses really look like for international students.

So, let’s get started!

What is the Cost of Living in Germany Per Month?

The cost of living in Germany can be broken down into housing, utilities, food, and transportation. And, this cost is hugely dependent on the city, university and the personal choice of students living in Germany.

Here is an overview of the living expense in Germany for an international student as per DAAD official figures: 

Based on this general cost of living in Germany, the Federal Government requires international students to have a blocked account with a minimum of €11,940 per year. This means that around €992 per month can be used to cover living expenses while studying in Germany.

Accommodation Costs in Germany for International Students

Finding accommodation in Germany can be challenging, especially in major cities, hence it is best to start your search early. As per official DAAD website, most students spend around €489 per month on rent. These costs vary by city and housing type. And, the most common housing options for students include student residences (affordable and social), shared flats (cost-effective and communal), and private apartments (comfortable but expensive). You can book accommodation through university portals, DAAD listings, or verified housing websites. Always verify listings to avoid scams.

Food & Grocery Costs in Germany for International Students

The food and grocery bill in Germany is an average of €250 monthly. This cost is however hugely dependent on the student's lifestyle. In Germany students will find large supermarket chains such as REWE and EDEKA which offer a wide selection of products and tend to cost more. There are budget-friendly chains like Aldi, Lidl, Penny and Netto that are popular among students for everyday groceries.

Many supermarkets publish weekly offers (Angebote) and have their own affordable store-brands (Eigenmarken) to help students save.  Additionally, student discount schemes exist: for example, the ISIC card gives you 10 % off at certain online food outlets.

NOTE: Visit the weekly local fresh market (Wochenmarkt) shortly before closing time. This time vendors often reduce prices on fresh produce, helping your monthly grocery budget stretch further.

Transportation Costs in Germany

The public transport system in Germany is efficiently organised and has excellent bus and rail connections. 
International students can benefit from round-trip tickets for travel throughout Europe in addition to the affordable and convenient transportation options inside the city. 

Public transport generally works out cheapest and is smooth to use, especially when commuting within towns. Owning a car is costly, considering fuel, insurance, and servicing. Biking is an economical and environment-friendly option to get around, especially in bike-friendly cities.

Utility Costs in Germany

Germany's monthly bills cover a number of utility charges, such as garbage, water, and electricity. In some cases, the rent may already cover these utility expenditures, so it is important you check about the inclusive utility cost clause while signing the contract. 

Entertainment and Leisure Costs in Germany

Everyone's life includes leisure activities, especially when weighed against job and school. Listed below are the prices associated with various entertainment options for international students. 
 

Tips to Save Money in Germany for International Students

These are tips that will help international students budget effectively and reduce their cost of living in Germany during their studies.
Discounts for Students: In Germany, there are numerous appealing student discounts offered all year long on apparel, electronics, and other items. Make the most of it when budgeting.

• Cards for Transportation: Purchasing a transport card might help frequent travellers save money on their trips. This is an excellent method of reducing your commuting costs.
• Scholarships: One excellent approach to pay for your living expenses in Germany is to apply for student scholarships. Look over your selections and apply.
• Seasonal Sales: In European nations, seasonal sales are highly favoured. These shopping deals will enable you to purchase everything you want in Germany at a reduced cost.
• Part-time Jobs: Taking up part-time work is the final, but no less important, strategy for managing your finances in Germany. You will be able to keep the money restricted from your account for later use if you work part-time. You will be able to prepare for the second year of your stay in Germany in this way.

The cost of living in Germany is a manageable commitment for international students as students are well-prepared with the Blocked Account clause. Additionally, Germany offers a wide range of accommodation options, affordable supermarkets, flexible phone and internet options along with manageable utility costs when compared to other European countries. 

If this guide has helped you confidently calculate your living expenses in Germany and inspired you to take the next step towards applying for a top German university, then speak to an AECC expert today and learn more about your study abroad journey!