I’m planning for Germany where tuition is low, but are there hidden costs like semester contribution fees, residence permits, or mandatory health insurance that students usually overlook?
That’s a very practical and important question. While most public universities in Germany charge little to no tuition fees, there are several mandatory costs students sometimes overlook:
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Semester Contribution Fees: Almost all universities require a semester contribution (Semesterbeitrag) of €250–€400 per semester. This covers administrative costs and often includes a semester transport ticket for local public transport.
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Residence Permit Fee: After arriving, you’ll need to apply for a residence permit, which typically costs €100–€120.
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Mandatory Health Insurance: Health insurance is compulsory for all students. For those under 30, public student health insurance usually costs €110–€120 per month. Private insurance can vary if you’re over 30 or choose alternative coverage.
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Blocked Account Funding: Before your visa, you’ll need to deposit around €11,208 (as of 2025) in a blocked account to prove you can cover your living expenses. This isn’t an extra fee but can be a cash flow challenge for some students.
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Other Costs: There may be small charges for student union membership, lab usage, or certain exams.
Even though tuition is minimal, you should still budget €900–€1,100 per month for living expenses (rent, food, transport, etc.) depending on the city.
