Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students

In Germany, essential food and beverage items are reasonably priced, making the cost of basic necessities quite affordable. Here is a breakdown of the average expenses for some necessary items:

The cost of living in Germany is moderate, around 900 Euros per month. This cost includes accommodation, travelling, food, utilities, and some miscellaneous expenses. Whereas if we talk about the range, it is somewhere between 800 Euros to 1200 Euros per month.

However, the cost may differ from city to city and according to students' preferences. The living cost in Germany for Indian Students is lower than other study-abroad destinations like the UK, US, and Australia.

There are two types of universities in Germany for international students, so their accommodation prices may vary. Let’s look at the housing rates of public and private universities.

German education at public universities is free as the government aspires to provide equality and enhance the nation's appeal as a study destination. Further, average annual costs for public university programs range from ₹12,000 (€147) to ₹130,000 (€1,597). The average tuition fees for public universities in Germany:

Both domestic and international students pay tuition fees at private universities. Private university courses cost an average of ₹1,21,000 (€1,486.99) to ₹28,30,000 (€34,778). The typical tuition fees for private universities in Germany are:

While studying in Germany, students can enjoy a wide variety of cuisines. The average amount spent on food in Germany is around 150 - 250 euros per month. Students must avoid eating food outside (at local restaurants and café) daily as it may affect their health and increase the Living Cost in Germany. You can purchase groceries and fresh veggies from supermarkets and cook them yourself.

The transportation cost in Germany is about 100 euros - 150 euros per month. Students can minimise their travelling costs by choosing university accommodation or renting a place near the university. In Germany, you will also find student concessions on public transport.

Since students choose to study abroad, they also wish to explore the local market and try out exciting activities. As a tourist attraction, there are numerous things to explore in Germany. It would be best if you experience the social lifestyle lived by the natives. You can visit clubs, museums, and amusement parks and try out local cuisines. You can also go shopping or watch a movie in the theatre. All this will cost you around 150 euros to 250 euros per month.

Health insurance is a significant factor when choosing to study in Germany. Students must get their health insurance as soon as they arrive in Germany. Overall, the average cost of health insurance in Germany is 1,000 euros per year.

Apart from rent, one must budget for utilities in Germany, which include heating, electricity, water, and trash. Electricity costs 29.42 cents per kilowatt-hour (CT/kWh). Moreover, sharing expenditures with roommates is common, and these costs are often included in the rent. 

The table below displays the top budget-friendly cities in Germany for Indian students, along with the anticipated living expenditures in each location.

Munish is considered the most expensive city in Germany. On an average, you will need 890 EUR per month, and while other expenditures, such as food and facilities, are nearly identical throughout most German towns, the rent is what truly differentiates them. Munich boasts the highest number of listed companies and major universities, making it an attractive location for study and well-paying jobs.

Berlin is not just Germany's capital but also its largest metropolis. While Berlin's cost of living is lower than Munich and Frankfurt, it remains higher than most other German cities. The average monthly cost of living in Berlin is roughly 825 EUR.

Frankfurt is centrally positioned and close to a number of other cities. However, it is among Germany's most costly cities. The average monthly cost of living in Frankfurt is roughly estimated to be 880 EUR. With an industrial history, it provides several job options.

Germany has lower living expenditures compared to other European countries. It pertains to the Living Cost in Germany, not the standard of living, and is shaped by various factors such as food, transportation, and living amenities. The table below will help you compare the cost of living in Germany for students to that of other prominent European countries.

It is reported that Germany's average cost of living is 200% higher than India's. Several variables impact the cost, including food, transportation, rent, and other amenities. The following chart compares some of the key components and sheds some insight into the cost of living in Germany for Indian students.

Health insurance significantly impacts your Living Cost in Germany. Those under 30 years of age enrolled in a recognised German institution can benefit from special student discounts for public health insurance. Individuals under 23 pay 105.05 EUR, while those over 23 pay 106.93 EUR monthly, covering public healthcare and nursing care.

International students aged over 30 in Germany can opt for public or private health insurance. Some private plans cost less than public healthcare premiums, starting at 40 EUR monthly plus variable costs. Job-holding students are advised to choose public health insurance, with contributions shared between employer and employee (capped at 360 EUR/month).

Top providers include TK, Barmer, KKH, and AOK. Monthly public health insurance premiums for students under 30 years:

• KKH – Kaufmännische Krankenkasse 111.75 EUR

• Barmer 108.77 EUR

• AOK Baden Württemberg 107.29 EUR

• DAK Gesundheit 111.75 EUR

• TK – Techniker Krankenkasse 105.80 (103.94 for students aged 22 or below)

Thus, if you are over the age of 30, enrolled in postgraduate or non-graduate programs, and without a job, you can apply for private health insurance through EDUCARE24. The premiums range from roughly 33 EUR to 130 EUR each month.

Also, Read: Part Time Work Options for International Students in Germany 

 It is very important to plan the budget in advance and manage the expenses accordingly. Here are some tips to reduce the cost of living in Germany.

• You might prefer to study in affordable cities to reduce the Living Cost in Germany. Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Bielefeld are the country's most affordable cities.

• Students must do part-time jobs to bear their own expenses. They can earn a minimum wage of 10 euros per hour through a part-time job.

• Choose the supermarkets wisely to purchase groceries. You can inquire from the localities regarding the places from where you can purchase your household stuff at an affordable price.

• If you are planning to manage the Living Cost in Germany on a low budget, then you must look for a roommate and share your apartment.

• Choose the transportation that is cheaper, or you can also use a bicycle to cover short distances.

• Moreover, various scholarships may cover your Living Cost in Germany. So you can apply for those scholarships.

A German student visa allows international students to work part-time for up to 20 hours a week. Some of the part-time job options in Germany for international students are:

• Student Assistant: Work at the university, related to studies, flexible hours, €12-€17/hour.

• Tutor: Organize study content reinforcement, comparable pay to a student assistant.

• Courier: Bike delivery, €12-€14/hour.

• Waiting Tables: Evenings, weekends, and tips can surpass hourly pay (€12.50).

• English Speaker Jobs: Suitable for limited German speakers, big city opportunities.

To sum up, with its affordable cost of living, diverse job opportunities, and student-friendly environment, Germany is an excellent destination for international students. Overall, planning and exploring various cost-saving options contribute to a successful stay.

Moreover, students who wish to study in Germany may contact our expert counsellors at any Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC) branch. You can also take free online counselling sessions through our website. Our counsellors will provide you with the best support and guidance to gain admission to Australian universities and a visa. For more information or any queries, you can mail us at application02@meridean.org or call us at toll-free no. 1800-1230-00011.

Q. What is the average monthly cost of living for Indian students in Germany?

Ans. The average monthly cost of living in Germany for Indian students ranges from 800 to   1200 euros, covering accommodation, food, transportation, and miscellaneous expenses.

Q. Are there affordable cities for Indian students in Germany?

Ans. Yes, cities like Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Bielefeld are considered more affordable for students, offering a lower cost of living compared to other major cities.

Q. How much can students save on transportation costs in Germany?

Ans. Students can minimise transportation costs by opting for university accommodation or living near the campus. Public transport, including buses and trains, often provides student concessions.

Q. What are the health insurance options for international students aged over 30?

Ans. International students over 30 can choose between public and private health insurance. Private plans are an option starting at 40 euros monthly, while job-holding students are recommended to opt for public health insurance.

Q. Can international students work part-time in Germany?

Ans. Yes, a German student visa allows international students to work part-time for up to 20 hours a week. Part-time job options include roles such as student assistant, tutor, courier, waiting tables, and English-speaking jobs.