Cost of living in Germany for Indian students

Germany is Europe’s premier study-abroad hub, particularly among Indian students. According to a recent report, German universities have witnessed a stunning increase of 107% in Indian student admissions. The Winter Semester 2023-24 saw a surge of 26% to 42,997 students. Increasing university enrollment is a telltale sign that Germany is popular yet affordable. The cost of living in Germany for Indian Students, which is only between EUR 10,200 and EUR 12,000 annually, is also bolstering admissions. 

Barring a few exceptions of expensive-to-live cities like Munich and Berlin, the majority of German cities contain affordable housing options. If students exercise a bit of frugality in their lifestyle expenses, the lion’s share of expenses, such as housing, food, transportation, utilities, and bills, are quite reasonable.

Another report encapsulates that the number of Indian students studying in Germany has doubled over the past five years, underscoring a penchant to migrate to German campuses to pursue higher education.

Student cities in Germany

Germany is a popular destination for international students, offering a diverse range of cities that cater to various academic and lifestyle preferences. The vibrant student cities in Germany combine quality education with rich cultural experiences, making them attractive to students from around the world. Moreover, your cost of living in Germany is highly dependent on the city you choose to study in.

• According to recent rankings, Munich tops the list, celebrated for its academic excellence and high quality of life, followed closely by Aachen, known for its affordability and historical primacy. 

• Other notable student cities in Germany include Cologne, which has cultural diversity; Leipzig, which is known for its affordability, rich cultural scene, welcoming atmosphere, and diverse educational opportunities; and Berlin, which boasts the highest number of universities. Each city presents unique opportunities, whether it’s the bustling urban life of Frankfurt or the serene atmosphere of Heidelberg. 

• With over 380 recognized universities and a variety of study programs, Germany not only provides excellent education but also a supportive environment for international students to thrive.

• These student-friendly cities in Germany not only provide excellent educational opportunities but also foster a vibrant student life, making them ideal for international students.

Private Housing for Indian students in Germany

Private accommodation is the foremost choice for Indian students studying in Germany, with around 60% opting for this type of housing. Although they are more expensive than student dorms, a staggering majority of students prefer private housing due to a combination of factors such as flexibility, independence, and privacy.

Types of Private Housing for Indian Students in Germany

The two main types of private housing for students in Germany are:

1. Shared Apartments (Wohngemeinschaft or WG): Under this type of housing format, students rent an apartment together and share common spaces like the kitchen and bathroom. Sharing an apartment can cost around ₹28,000 to ₹59,000 per person per month.
2. Private Apartments: Students rent their own individual apartment, which provides the most privacy but is also the most expensive option. Private apartments can cost between ₹64,000 to ₹72,000 per month.

Finding Private Housing for Indian Students in Germany

To find private housing, students can:

• Search online portals like WG-Gesucht, Immoscout24, or Housing Anywhere
• Check university notice boards or contact the International Office for listings
• Join Facebook groups like “Indians in [City Name]” to connect with the local Indian student community
• Attend Indian cultural events or reach out to Indian student associations at the university

Costs and Considerations

The cost of private housing is contingent upon many factors, such as the city and size of the apartment. Major cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg tend to be more expensive, with average monthly rents ranging from ₹79,000 to ₹112,000. When renting privately, students are responsible for paying rent, utilities, and other bills on their own. It’s important to factor these additional costs into the monthly budget. Private housing may offer less opportunity for social interaction compared to student dorms. However, it provides more independence and flexibility in terms of rules and lifestyle

City-wise housing cost in Germany

The City-wise housing cost  in Germany varies significantly depending on the city.

Apartments

City	Price per m²
Munich	€11,573
Hamburg	€8,070
Berlin	€8,314
Frankfurt	€7,876
Cologne	€5,182
Hanover	€4,333

Houses

City	Price per m²
Munich	€11,573
Stuttgart	€5,940
Berlin	€6,687
Frankfurt	€5,449
Cologne	€4,574
Hamburg	€5,217

Rents

City	Average Monthly Rent (1-Bedroom Apartment)
Munich	€1,200 – €1,800
Stuttgart	€1,000 – €1,400
Berlin	€800 – €1,200
Frankfurt	€1,000 – €1,500
Cologne	€900 – €1,200
Hamburg	€1,000 – €1,400
Düsseldorf	€900 – €1,200

Cost of food in Germany

Grocery Prices

Here are some average grocery prices for common items:

Item	Average Cost (€)
White bread (500g)	€1.90
Milk (1 liter)	€1.08
Eggs (12)	€3.05
Rice (1kg, white)	€2.46
Potatoes (1kg)	€1.52
Tomatoes (1kg)	€1.69
Chicken (1kg)	€12.47

Dining Out Costs

Dining out can be more expensive compared to cooking at home. Here are average costs for meals:

Dining Option	Average Cost (€)
Meal at an inexpensive restaurant	€14.00
Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant	€60.00
Meal at McDonald’s	€10.00
Lunch at a university canteen (Mensa)	€2.00 – €3.00
Cappuccino	€3.40

Monthly Food Budget

For students and individuals living in Germany, the average monthly Cost of food in Germany with groceries is approximately €220. This budget typically covers home-cooked meals, occasional dining out, and snacks.

Cost of Health Insurance in Germany

Health insurance is a crucial requirement for all students in Germany, ensuring access to necessary medical care. Below is a more comprehensive breakdown of the cost of health insurance in Germany, including types and considerations specifically for students.

1. Statutory Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung – GKV)

Monthly Premiums:

• The cost for statutory health insurance for students typically ranges from €120 to €135 per month. This amount covers both health insurance and long-term care insurance.

Eligibility:

• Students under the age of 30 can enroll in statutory health insurance.
• If a student exceeds this age limit, they must switch to private health insurance (PKV).

Coverage:

Statutory health insurance generally covers a wide range of services, including:

• Doctor visits (general practitioners and specialists)
• Hospital stays (inpatient and outpatient)
• Prescriptions for medications
• Preventive care (vaccinations, screenings)
• Mental health services
• The coverage is comprehensive, ensuring students have access to necessary healthcare without significant out-of-pocket expenses.

2. Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung – PKV)

Monthly Premiums:

For students who are not eligible for statutory health insurance or prefer private coverage, premiums can vary widely:

• Basic plans may start as low as €33 per month.
• More comprehensive plans can range from €100 to €200 or more, depending on the specific coverage and individual health factors.

Eligibility:

Private health insurance is typically available for:

• Students over the age of 30
• Non-regular degree program students (e.g., language courses)
• Ph.D. students and researchers

Coverage:

Private health insurance often provides more extensive coverage options, including:

• Shorter waiting times for appointments
• Access to private hospitals and specialists
• Additional services such as dental care, alternative medicine, and wellness programs
• However, private insurance may require upfront payments for medical services, which can be reimbursed later.

3. Additional Considerations

Choosing Between GKV and PKV:

• Students should carefully consider their health needs and financial situation when choosing between statutory and private health insurance.
• Statutory insurance is generally more affordable and provides comprehensive coverage, making it a popular choice for most students.
• Private insurance may be suitable for those seeking additional benefits and who can afford the higher premiums.

Application Process:

• Students can apply for health insurance online or through local offices of the insurance providers.
• It’s advisable to have health insurance in place before arriving in Germany, as proof of insurance is often required for university enrollment.

Exemptions and Special Cases:

• Some students may be eligible for exemptions or special rates based on specific criteria (e.g., EU students, scholarship holders).
• It’s essential to check with the chosen insurance provider for any available discounts or special conditions. 

Transport Expenses in Germany

When studying or living in Germany, Transport Expenses in Germany can vary depending on your location and preferred mode of travel. Here’s a breakdown of common transportation expenses:

Public Transportation

• One-way ticket: Around €3 on average
• Monthly pass : €49

Taxis

• Starting fare: Approximately €3.60
• Cost per km: €1.80 to €2.80

Bicycles

• Using Call a Bike service: €5.90 per month
• Buying your own bicycle: Prices vary widely based on the type and quality

Personal Car

• Gasoline (1 gallon): €6.65 on average
• Volkswagen Golf 1.4 90 KW Trendline (or equivalent new car): €27,180

Summary

Germany is an attractive study destination for Indian students due to its affordable living costs, averaging €10,200-€12,000 annually. Major student cities like Munich, Berlin, and Cologne offer diverse cultural experiences and quality education. Housing options range from shared apartments to private housing, with costs varying by city. Additional expenses include food, health insurance, and transportation, with monthly budgets covering essentials like groceries (€220) and public transport (€49).

FAQs

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

The average cost of living for Indian students in Germany is between €10,200 and €12,000 annually. Major expenses include housing, food, transportation, and health insurance.

2. What are the housing options available for Indian students in Germany?

Indian students can choose between private housing, such as shared apartments (WG) or private apartments. Shared apartments cost around ₹28,000 to ₹59,000 per month, while private apartments range from ₹64,000 to ₹72,000 per month.

3. Which is the cheapest city in Germany to live in?

Bielefeld is considered one of the cheapest cities to live in Germany, offering a lower cost of living compared to other major cities like Munich and Frankfurt.