Cost of Living in Germany for International Students in 2025
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Thinking about studying in Germany? That's awesome! Germany is a top destination for international students, especially because of its excellent universities cheap tution fees. But before you pack your bags, let's talk about the cost of living in Germany. This guide breaks it down in a way that's easy to understand, especially if you're coming from India.
Germany is a top destination for international students but what comes to your mind if you are thinking to study in Germany? The world-class universities, historic cities, or… your budget? As an international student, understanding the cost of living in Germany is key to a successful and stress-free experience. In 2025, a single person should budget between INR 85,000 - INR 1.25 Lakhs per month. The cost of living in Germany is approximately EUR 12,000 per year (INR 11.17 Lakhs). This includes the expenses of grocery, transportation, entertainment and other important things.
Check how to manage your finances, choose budget-friendly cities like Leipzig and Chemnitz, and explore work opportunities after graduation in this comprehensive cost of living in Germany guide. Having clear information about this will help you to prepare a budget. This blog will be helpful for you to understand the living expenses in Germany as a student.
Cost of living in Germany for Indian students in 2025
Candidates can check the detailed breakdown of the living expenses in Germany for Indian students:
| Category | Cost (€) | Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom, outside city center) | €714 – €1,252 | INR 63,146 – INR 110,839 |
| Food (Groceries & Eating Out) | €250 – €450 | INR 22,125 – INR 39,825 |
| Health Insurance | €80 – €130 | INR 7,080 – INR 11,505 |
| Transportation (Monthly Pass) | €52 – €74 | INR 4,590 – INR 6,558 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) | €212 – €519 | INR 18,736 – INR 45,903 |
| Internet (Unlimited Data, 60 Mbps+) | €37 – €53 | INR 3,279 – INR 4,684 |
| Mobile Plan (Calls + 10GB+ Data) | €11 – €42 | INR 937 – INR 3,743 |
| Leisure & Entertainment (Gym, Movies, etc.) | €50 – €110 | INR 4,425 – INR 9,735 |
| Total Estimated Cost | €1,406 – €2,740 | INR 1,24,318 – INR 2,42,801 |
Source: Numbeo
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The afforementioned table on cost of living in Germany is just a estimation for refrence as it varies from the choice of room, food and quality of living. Living in Germany can be expensive, but students can support themselves by working. Learning more about job opportunities in Germany can help international students plan their finances better.
Understanding the monthly expenses for students in Germany is important for financial planning. Costs can vary based on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation choices, so students should be aware of their expected expenses before moving.
Understanding the Blocked Account
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of expenses, it's important to understand the concept of the Blocked Account in Germany. This is a mandatory requirement for most Indian students applying for a German student visa. The account holds a specific amount of money (currently €992 per month or €11,904) to demonstrate your financial means for supporting yourself during your studies.
Related Reads
| Job Opportunities in Germany |
Average Monthly Living Costs in Germany
Now, let's talk numbers. According to the Study in Germany official website, Indian students in Germany can expect to spend EUR 992 per month on living expenses. This amount does not house rent. Also, the mentioned living expenses can vary depending on several factors, including:
- City of residence: Major cities like Munich and Frankfurt tend to be more expensive than smaller towns.
- Accommodation type: Renting a private apartment will cost more than staying in a student dormitory.
- Lifestyle choices: Your spending habits on food, entertainment, and travel will significantly impact your overall expenses.
Also Read: Must-Know Changes for Students in Germany in 2025
Breaking Down the Cost of Living in Germany
With the average monthly range in mind, let's break down the key cost components for Indian students:
- Accommodation: This typically forms the biggest chunk of your expenses. Student dormitories or shared apartments can range from €250 to €500 per month, while private apartments might cost €400 to €800 or more.
- Food: Groceries and eating out can cost anywhere from €200 to €400 per month. Indian students can find familiar ingredients in some stores, but be prepared to adjust your grocery list to some extent. Cooking at home is a budget-friendly option compared to frequent restaurant visits.
- Health Insurance: Health insurance is mandatory for students in Germany. The cost can vary depending on the provider and coverage. The cost of health insurance is € 120 to € 130 per month. Students who are older than 30 years are eligible for public health insurance. Students older the age of 30 years need to get private health insurance.
- Transportation: Public transportation like buses, trains, and subways are efficient and affordable in Germany. Monthly passes can cost around €50 to €80, depending on the city and coverage area. Owning a bicycle is a popular and cost-effective way to navigate smaller towns.
- Utilities: Expect to pay around €100 to €150 per month for utilities like electricity, water, and internet. This cost might be higher or lower depending on the size and efficiency of your accommodation.
- Other Expenses: Factor in additional costs like textbooks, phone bills, occasional clothes shopping, and entertainment. These can vary depending on your individual needs and preferences.
Cost of Living in Germany: Overview
| Factors | Items |
|---|---|
| Accommodation in Germany | Student dormitories / Shared apartments |
| Food | Groceries/ Cooking at home |
| Health Insurance | Health Insurance |
| Transportation | Buses/ Trains/ Subways |
| Utilities | Electricity/ Water/ Internet |
| Other Expenses | Textbooks/ Phone Bills/ Shopping/ Entertainment |
While planning your study journey in Germany, don’t overlook the importance of the TestAS exam for admissions. Learn more about it in our TestAS Exam Guide.
Cost of Living in Germany: Saving Strategies
Living comfortably on a student budget in Germany is achievable! Here are some tips to help you stretch your Euros further:
- Seek Scholarships and Grants: Numerous scholarships and grants are available for Indian students studying in Germany. Research these opportunities thoroughly and apply for those that align with your academic profile.
- Embrace Student Discounts: Many museums, cultural events, and public transportation offer student discounts. Take advantage of these to save money on leisure activities.
- Explore Affordable Food Options: Utilize university canteens, cook meals at home, and take advantage of supermarket discounts and promotions for groceries.
- Consider Part-Time Work: International students in Germany are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks on their German Student Visa. This can be a great way to supplement your income and gain valuable work experience. However, ensure you comply with visa regulations regarding work hours.
- Embrace Public Transportation: Public transportation in Germany is efficient, reliable, and affordable. Invest in a monthly pass for significant savings compared to relying on taxis or ride-sharing services. Biking is another cost-effective way to get around, especially in smaller towns.
- Be Mindful of Additional Costs: Remember to factor in occasional travel expenses, visa renewal fees, and potential healthcare costs beyond your insurance coverage. Budgeting for these eventualities helps avoid financial strain.
The cost of living varies between countries. For a comparative overview of living expenses in Germany and the Netherlands, refer to our Study in Netherlands vs Germany guide.
Also, Read
| Part-Time Work Options for International Students in Germany |
Cheap and Affordable Universities in Germany |
| 7 Steps to Study in Germany for Free | Post-Study Work Permits in Germany for Indian Students |
Studying in Germany
While the cost of living is a crucial factor, remember that studying in Germany offers an experience beyond monetary calculations. You'll gain access to a world-renowned education system, immerse yourself in a vibrant culture, and forge lifelong connections with people from diverse backgrounds. Candidates can check out the cost of studying in Germany for Indian students below.
Cost of Studying in Germany 2025
| University - Type | Cost of Studying |
|---|---|
| Public Universities in Germany (UG/PG) | INR 0 |
| Private Universities in Germany (UG/PG) | 10,000 - 20,000 euros |
So, keep these figures in mind, look at the various Universities in Germany that you can apply to, check out the eligibility requirements as well as the language exams and German language requirements for Germany and start preparing. Germany is called the land of ideas and with good reason. Find your perfect fit and start planning your higher studies in Germany. Candidates wanting assistance with university admissions can get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors on the same.
Planning your finances effectively is key to a smooth and enriching study abroad experience in Germany. By understanding the average living costs, exploring cost-saving strategies, and embracing cultural and academic opportunities, you can make the most of your time in Germany. Start planning your German study adventure today, and be prepared for an unforgettable journey of learning, exploration, and personal growth!
Popular Courses in Germany
Yes, living costs in Germany are significantly higher for Indians. On average, a single person would need about INR 85,316 (approximately €1,000) per month to maintain a similar lifestyle that costs around INR 27,882 in India. This means living expenses in Germany can be about 205.9% higher than in India.
A salary of €3,000 per month is generally considered decent in Germany, especially for a single person. It allows for a comfortable lifestyle, covering basic expenses such as rent, food, and transportation.
To live comfortably in Germany, an individual typically needs a monthly salary of at least €2,500 to €3,000, depending on their location and lifestyle.
A few of the reasons to study at BSBI Germany campus are:
- Central Location: The main campus of BSBI Germany is located in the heart of Berlin. It is located in the historical building of Alte Post. The neighborhood surrounding the campus has shops, restaurants, and cafes
- Diverse community: When students join BSBI, they are going to witness a diverse student cohort of over 100 nationalities
- Affordable education: Berlin is one of the best value European cities that lead to high-quality education, making it one of the most affordable cities in Europe to live and study in
- Dedicated career and employment support: BSBI Berlin a range of career support services to its students
- Academic excellence: The teachers at the school are experienced industry professionals who pass on their expertise through hands-on teaching methods
The acceptance rate for the IU International University of Applied Science ranges between 40% to 80%, which means the selection process of the university is moderate to highly competitive. Students who hold good academic scores, exam test scores along with all the required documents that help them to secure enrollment in the university.
The acceptance rate shows that out of 100 students, only 40 to 80 students are accepted; therefore, it is also suggested to the students that they should apply at the university before the application deadline or the semester begins as per the details shared by the university.
Hof University is voted the most popular university in Germany for 2024. It continues to receive the highest marks for teaching. These rankings are as per the ranking published by the renowned portal Studycheck.de. More than 40 bachelor’s and master’s programs in Computer Science, Business, Engineering as well as Interdisciplinary and Innovative Science are offered by the university. Also, the teaching at this university is based on innovative methods to convey application-oriented knowledge.
Germany is the third-most sought-after study abroad destination among international students. It is the top choice for students to study in Europe. The country boats the highest standard of living because of the biggest job market in Europe. Take a look some more benefits of studying in Germany below:
· An affordable cost of living
· Access to international companies
· World-class universities to study
· A high-quality educational system
· After graduation, you will be eligible to apply for 18 months post-study resident permit
Also read about the Top Reasons to Study in Germany
Raushan Kumar is a skilled writer and a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. He oversees various aspects of studying abroad, including educational opportunities, entrance exams, colleges, latest new... Read Full Bio
Abhineet is armed with varied experiences ranging from teaching in a university and research to counselling students. Working for some time in Germany, and having a passion for travelling, he has gained much interna... Read Full Bio
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Comments
(21)
R
2 years ago
Hello Khushi. You can check out popular universities in Germany here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/germany and also get in touch with our Shiksha Study Abroad counsellors for assistance with university admissions here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/apply
R
3 years ago
Hello Aiswarya. You can know all about Public Universities in Germany here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/list-of-public-universities-in-germany-articlepage-1995 You can know all about popular universities in Germany along with their fee structure and courses here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com
4 years ago
R
4 years ago
Hello Shivani. You can take a look at scholarship options in the links below: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/how-to-get-a-scholarship-to-study-abroad-articlepage-1158 https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/scholarships
S
4 years ago
R
4 years ago
you can check out popular universities in Germany here: https://studyabroad.shiksha.com/germany
Living in Germany can be considered moderately expensive compared to some countries, but it is generally more affordable than many other Western European nations. A single person typically needs at least €992 per month (around $1,085) to cover living expenses.