Studying in Germany on a Budget: Tips for International Students

Just for a moment, let's picture a situation where you are about to step into a dream and start an academic journey in Germany. Of course, the thrills of world-class education, alive culture, and new friendships are the primary motives. Any doubt? However, the prospect of substantial debt due to the unbearable cost of study is too overwhelming. What if I decide that a university in Germany will be the best choice for me? Finding a way to finance my study in Germany  will no longer seem like a problem.

Planning a Budget Before You Land

Developing a budget ahead of time before you are in Germany is the beginning of your way to financial serenity. Get yourself acquainted with living expenses, ranging from tuition, and housing to health insurance and the everyday cost of living. Germany provides an excellent learning environment for students, but you might experience unanticipated costs.

Below are the most significant costs the students have to consider:

• Blocked Bank Account in Germany: It is a requirement to get a visa and you need an account to display a balance of 11,208 € yearly (934 € monthly).

• The Fee for Studying: Public universities have minimum fees per semester (100-200 €), and private universities can cost up to 20,000 € per year.

• Medical Insurance: It would be around 100-150 € monthly for international students.

• Accommodation: The average price is about 410 € per month for dormitories, rented rooms or private housing is even more expensive, especially in cities like Berlin and it could be 500-1300 €.

• Food and Groceries: One would typically spend 150-250 € per month.

• Public Transport: The Semester Ticket is a good option for students who want to travel at a good price.

Smart Strategies to Help You Save Money While Studying in Germany

1. Benefit from Student Discounts:

When leaving home, make sure to take your student identity card with you, as it allows you to get good discounts on your purchases, which in turn helps you savour life and at the same time save because you can get so many things for free.

2. Examine Inexpensive Transportation Options:

Paying for a ride on a train, bus or metro, is the most flexible option. Saving your money by using a special student discount card will help you save a huge amount of money.

3. Choose to Stay in Shared Housing:

An alternate choice is to live in a dormitory or a shared apartment to lower the extra housing expenses. It is not only economical but also an opportunity to join other students on diverse topics doing student staff.

4. Prepare Your Food:

Not enough money implies making the dish at home is much cheaper than dining out. Search the local farmer's markets for items that are both affordable and fresh.

5. Accept Free and Cheap Activities:

Germany has many activities that are free and cheap. From museum visits to outdoor festivals, you can find plenty of them. Use these chances to enrich your experience without spending a lot.

6. Benefit from Using Discount Cards:

Cards like the International Student Identity Card (ISIC) are examples of cards with which you get discounts on travelling, shopping and many other needs.

7. Make Use of Student Apps:

Apps like N26 (for banking) and Too Good To Go (for discounted meals) are great to help you control your budget and find offers that are worth your money.

8. Shop Wisely:

When seasonal sales come, try to buy all the essentials that you need, but at the same time, thrift stores are the ideal option for buying clothes and furniture. You can expect a huge reduction in prices.

9. Take a Budget Airline Flight:

Quite indispensable for moving around while studying medicine in Europe  are: the low-cost airlines. However, you should not leave your ticket booking until the last minute.

10. Group Travel:

Travelling with friends can significantly decrease the costs incurred.

11. Make a Plan:

Organise your monthly costs in a planned manner. It is an effective way of knowing where the money is going and thus avoiding unnecessary splurges.

13. Working Part-Time:

In Germany school students are allowed to work 120 days or half-time for 240 days a year. Part-time jobs give young people not only extra money but also the possibility to acquire practical knowledge of the labour market.

Final Thoughts

It is not necessary to use up all the money you've managed to save for college in Germany. Studying in Germany is even possible without spending a fortune. Through detailed planning, wise budgeting and proactive thinking, you could exploit this tremendous possibility to the full.  

By putting the above tips into practice, you will not only keep your money safe but also will be allowed to learn something new and form habits that will help you your whole life. Your trip to Germany is already waiting for you. Get things organised and get started now!