Cost Of Living In Germany For Indian Students

Germany is one of the most cost-effective countries for abroad education. The cost of living in Germany for Indian students is very reasonable when compared to other European Universities. A minimum of around €992 per month is required for a single person to us the living expenses in Germany. The living cost in Germany for Indian students depends on various factors. This article explores various financial aspects of living comfortably as a student in Germany.

What is the cost of living in Germany for students

The average monthly spending for a student in Germany can range between 900 Euros to 1200 Euros (₹79,612.06 to ₹1,06,149.48) which is much cheaper when compared to USA and other European countries but higher than India. The cost of living in Germany for international students can vary depending on where they live. While cities like Berlin Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt are more expensive, cities like Dresden and Leipzig are on the lesser side.

Blocked account details for International Students:

As part of visa requirements, all international students are required to open a blocked account to prove their financial stability. It is a means to show that they can support themselves in Germany with this amount. The minimum required amount in your blocked account is €11,208 per year ( or €934 per month).

Factors affecting total cost of living in Germany for Indian students

Speaking of the actual numbers, as per Germany’s official website, Indian students can expect to spend around a minimum of €992 per month excluding Rent. This figure is likely to rise depending on the type of accommodation you prefer and lifestyle choices you make. A breakdown of key expenses that contribute to the cost of living for international students in Germany is given below:

1. Accommodation : The lion’s share of expenditure is taken away by accommodation as it is one of the most important living expenses in Germany for students. The rental expenditure depends on the city you live in and the type of accommodation you choose.

• Student dormitories: These are popular among students, affordable, but are limited in availability. The cost ranges between- €250–€400/month.
• Shared apartments (WG): If you are looking for private rooms in shared apartments then these are popular too. The rent ranges between €350–€700/month.
• Private apartments: Private apartments are a more expensive option but give you comfortable and safe stay. These range between €600–€1,000/month
• Regional differences: Rent in cities like Munich, Frankfurt, and Hamburg is significantly higher compared to smaller cities like Leipzig or Dresden.

2. Food and Groceries: Monthly food expenses depend on your dietary habits and dining preferences. Ideally home cooking will save a great amount when compared to eating out. Here is a list of food and Grocery expenses:

• Cooking at home: It cost around €150–€250/month (₹13,268.69–₹22,114.48)  and is a budget-friendly option too.
• Eating out: A meal at a student cafeteria costs around €3–€5, while dining at a mid-range restaurant can cost €10–€20.
• Grocery chains like Aldi, Lidl, and Edeka offer affordable options for fresh produce and essentials.

3. Transportation: Public transportation is effective and affordable for students commuting in Germany.

Public Transport: Many universities provide semester tickets and discount coupons for students to access public transport. The cost ranges between €30 to €60 per month. However, there are few cities which do not provide semester tickets so the students should get public transport passes which costs around €50- €80.

Owing a bicycle is also a popular option among the international students in Germany. It is a cost effective and environmentally friendly way to commute.

4. Health Insurance: Health Insurance is compulsory for all the students in Germany. The cost of Health Insurance for International students depends on type of Insurance provider (whether its public or Private)

• Public Heath Insurance : Public Health Insurance costs around €120–€130/month and it covers wide range of medical expenses.
• Private Health Insurance : The cost may vary but it can be more affordable for students above 30 years.

5. Study Materials and Miscellaneous Expenses :

• Books and Study materials: Many universities provide free access to libraries and online resources but you might require some personal study material and stationery. It costs you around €20- €50 per month.
• Internet and phone Bills: cost around €25–€50/month.
• Entertainment and leisure : For activities like Gym, movies and leisure it costs around €50–€100/month.

6. Utilities (Electricity, Internet): The cost of utilities like water, electricity and Internet costs around 150- 200 euros. If you are planning to live in Dorms or hostels, you need not worry about utilities like water or electricity.

Total cost of living in Germany for Indian students: Here is the total sum of living expenses in Germany for Indian students including accommodation.

The table below details cost of living in Germany for Indian students in rupees

Germany’s Living Expenses City-wise

Cost of living in Darmstadt for students; The average cost of living in Germany for Indian students is relatively very less in Darmstadt. It is the home to Technical University of Darmstadt (TU Darmstadt), one of Germany’s leading institutions in engineering and technology. It is a student friendly city which provides affordable living. It is located in the state of Hesse.

Cost of living in Hamburg for international students

It is a major post city in Northern Germany. The cost of living is higher, particularly for accommodation. It hosts several renowned institutions such as the University of Hamburg and Hamburg University of Technology (TUHH).

Cost of living in Leipzig for international students

Leipzig is the home to one of the Prestigeous universities named Leipzig University. It is one of the oldest universities in Europe. It has excellent public transportation facilities.

Cost of living in Deggendorf for students

The Deggendorf Institute of Technology (DIT) attracts students from around the world, especially for its focus on applied sciences and engineering programs. The cost of living is relatively low and ideal for students looking for quiet and focused academic life.

Cost of living in Munich for international students

Munich is the capital of Bavaria. Institutions like Ludwig Maximilian University (LMU) and Technical University of Munich (TUM) are famous universities present in Munich. Though the cost of living is high in Munich the educational opportunities and quality of life makes it worth investing.

Frankfurt cost of living student

Being a financial hub Frankfut is also home to prestigious institutions like Goethe University and Frankfurt University of Applied Sciences.

Conclusion

Each city offers unique experiences, diverse academic opportunities, and varying costs of living, making Germany a versatile destination for international students. By planning and budgeting wisely, students can manage a comfortable lifestyle in Germany while focusing on their studies.

Frequently Asked Questions:

A. Major expenses include accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, study materials, and leisure activities.

A. Indian students should save at least €11,208 (₹9.91 lakhs) for a blocked account, which covers one year of living expenses, plus extra for initial setup costs.

A. Yes, options like student dormitories (€250–€400) and shared apartments (€350–€700) are affordable choices for students.

• Food: €150–€250 (₹13,269–₹22,115) per month
• Transportation: €50–€80 (₹4,423–₹7,077) per month
• Entertainment: €50–€100 (₹4,423–₹8,845) per month

A. Yes, Indian students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, earning around €10–€15 per hour, depending on the job.