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BAföG for foreigners
All information about BAföG for foreigners
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About this Page
what BAföG is and who can apply for it
when foreigners can apply for BAföG
Amount of BAföG rate
BAföG and subsistence support for students
Table of Contents
1. BAföG and living expenses for foreigners
2. Do foreigners receive BAföG?
3. Application procedure for BAföG for foreigners
4. Alternatives to BAföG
5. FAQ BAföG foreign students
6. Conclusion BAföG foreign students
1. BAföG and living expenses for foreigners
BAföG is the most important state-sponsored student aid program in Germany. It provides financial support to students who cannot cover their living expenses and tuition costs themselves. The following applies: The program must match the student's interests and aptitude, and no other funding is available. Eligibility for funding arises directly from the Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG) and generally also applies to certain groups of international students.
Especially for international students, BAföG is not just financial assistance, but often a requirement to prove one's means of subsistence – for example, when applying for a visa or extending a residence permit . The amount of BAföG can be up to approximately 950 euros per month and also includes subsidies for rent , health insurance , and childcare. This makes BAföG an important building block for many international students in securing their stay in Germany.
2. Do foreigners receive BAföG?
Not only German students can receive BAföG – many foreign students are also eligible if they meet certain requirements. EU citizens and citizens of EEA countries (Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway) are largely treated the same as Germans if they have permanent residency, are employed, or one of their parents works in Germany. Students from Switzerland can also receive BAföG under certain conditions.
Stricter rules apply to non-EU citizens. This usually requires a long-term residence permit, e.g., for recognized refugees , asylum seekers, or holders of a settlement permit . Even tolerated persons with at least 15 months of uninterrupted residence can receive BAföG (see Section 8 of the BAföG ). Gainful employment before starting their studies—for the students themselves or their parents—can also justify entitlement.
3. Application procedure for BAföG for foreigners
The BAföG application for foreign students is submitted through the responsible Office for Educational Support . It is important to submit the correct form, which contains information specifically relevant to foreign applicants—particularly regarding your residence permit and the duration of your previous stay in Germany. Proof of possible employment and proof of training must also be submitted.
Processing can take several weeks, so applications should be submitted early. Funding only begins in the month of application; retroactive payment is not possible. International students should therefore inform themselves about their opportunities and obligations in a timely manner. Consulting with immigration law specialists or specialized counseling centers can help avoid unnecessary delays.
4. Alternatives to BAföG
Not every international student meets the requirements for BAföG funding. In such cases, it's worth considering alternatives . These include, in particular, scholarships , for example, from scholarship funds, political foundations, or private organizations. Study-related part-time jobs can also help secure a living, although the permitted working hours are limited depending on the residence permit (the so-called 140/280-day rule) .
Other options include student loans, such as those offered by KfW , or a blocked account , which must be set up before entering Germany. International students with children may also be eligible for the childcare allowance within the BAföG system or support from the Youth Welfare Office. Anyone unsure about this should seek professional advice early on.
5. FAQ: BAföG and living expenses for foreign students
Who can receive BAföG as a foreigner?
Foreign students are eligible for BAföG under certain conditions. EU and EEA citizens, as well as Swiss students, can usually receive BAföG if, for example, they have permanent residency or one of their parents works in Germany. Third-country nationals generally require a long-term residence permit, e.g., as a refugee or with a settlement permit.
How much is the BAföG grant?
The maximum BAföG grant is approximately 950 euros per month. This includes contributions towards rent, health insurance, and, if applicable, childcare.
How does the application process work?
The application is submitted to the relevant educational funding office. Specific documentation of your residence permit, the length of your stay, and, if applicable, employment is required. Funding begins no earlier than the month of application—so apply early!
What alternatives are there to BAföG?
Those who aren't eligible for BAföG (student financial aid) can rely on scholarships, student loans, part-time jobs, or a blocked account. Childcare allowances or assistance from the youth welfare office may also be eligible.
6. Conclusion: BAföG for foreign students
Foreign students in Germany can receive BAföG (student financial aid) under certain conditions – this applies to both EU citizens and many third-country nationals. The decisive factors are residence status, the length of stay in Germany, and, if applicable, previous employment. The application must be carefully prepared and requires specific documentation. Those who receive BAföG can not only finance their studies but often also meet the residency requirements. For those who are not eligible for BAföG, there are good alternatives – from scholarships and student loans to part-time jobs. VISAGUARD supports students from abroad with all legal questions related to BAföG, residence permits , and student financing.
Further Information
List of Sources (Paywall)
[1] BeckOK AuslR/Fleuß, 42nd Ed. 1.7.2024, AufenthG § 16b Rn. 1 - 96
[2] Visa Handbook, Scholarship Holders, 75th Supplement, Status: 08/2022
[3] Administrative instructions for residence in Berlin (VAB), as of 18 February 2025, § 16b