Monthly Living Expenses in Germany for International Students
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Germany is a top choice for international students, offering world-class education at low tuition fees. But what about living expenses? In 2025, students need a minimum of €992 per month for visa purposes, but is that really enough to cover essentials like rent, food, and transport? Let’s check the cost of living in Germany per month for international students and find out!
Germany is one of the most popular destinations for international students due to its high-quality education and no tuition fees at German public universities. But there's one big question on every student’s mind: Is €992 per month enough to live in Germany as a student?
According to the German authorities, yes. But ask any student living in cities like Berlin, Munich, or Stuttgart, and the answer might be very different. This article will give you a realistic breakdown of the monthly cost of living in Germany for students in 2025 with real examples, average prices, and practical tips.
- Cost of Living in Germany: Major Monthly Expenses Breakdown
- City-Wise Cost of Living in Germany
- Is €992 Enough to Live in Germany?
Cost of Living in Germany: Major Monthly Expenses Breakdown
1. Rent Cost in Germany
| Type of Accommodation |
Monthly Rent (€) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Student Dormitory |
200 - 350 |
Cheapest option, but long waiting times (3–4 semesters) |
| Shared Apartment (WG) |
400 - 750 |
Popular with students, depends on city and location |
| Private Studio |
700 - 1000+ |
Best privacy, most expensive option |
While studying in Germany, student dorms are the most affordable, but the wait time can be long (3-4 semesters). Always avoid scams by never paying in advance before seeing the apartment or signing a proper contract.
Germany Rent Tips for International Students:
- Always visit the apartment in person or through a verified platform before paying.
- Read the rental contract carefully (usually in German).
- Beware of scams – if a deal sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
2. Groceries Cost in Germany
- Average Range: €100 - €300/month
Groceries depend on your city and eating habits. Supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, Netto, Penny, and Edeka are budget-friendly. Indian stores are available in most cities but usually more expensive. Cooking at home saves a lot compared to eating out.
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3. Eating Out Cost in Germany
- Mensa (University Canteen): €3 - €5 per meal
- Regular Restaurants: €10 - €20 per meal
- Fancy Restaurants: €30+
4. Utilities Cost in Germany
- Heating, Water, Electricity, Wi-Fi: €100 - €200/month (may be included in rent)
- Internet (60 Mbps): €30 - €50/month
- Mobile Plan: €10 - €20/month
- Radio/TV Tax (GEZ): €18.36/month per household
5. Health Insurance Cost in Germany
| Provider |
Age Group |
Monthly Premium (€) |
|---|---|---|
| TK |
Under 23 |
139 |
| TK |
23 and older |
144 |
Many health insurance providers bundle services with blocked accounts and cashback offers for students.
6. Transportation Charges in Germany
- Deutschland Ticket (Regular): €58/month
- Student Price: €38/month (regional unlimited travel)
Long-distance trains (ICE, IC) are not included, but regional travel is sufficient for daily commuting. One should know the Public Transport Tips for International Students to avoid any kind of inconvenience.
7. Miscellaneous Expenses
- Gym Membership: €20 - €40/month
- Entertainment, Subscriptions, Shopping: €30 - €100/month (varies widely)
City-Wise Cost of Living in Germany
Heidelberg (Student Dorm)
- Rent: €300
- Health Insurance: €140
- Transportation: €40
- Gym: €40
- Groceries: €300 - €350
- Total: €830 - €870
Munich (Private Flat)
- Rent: €550
- Health Insurance: €140
- Transportation: €38
- Gym: €25
- Groceries: €60 - €80
- Total: €840 - €860
Stuttgart (Student Dorm)
- Rent: €256
- Health Insurance: €131
- Transportation: €31
- Gym: €8
- Groceries: €150
- Total: €620 - €650
Berlin
- Rent: €450 (inclusive)
- Health Insurance: €140
- Groceries: €140 - €160
- Transportation: €30
- Gym: €25
- Total: €845 - €870
There are various best cities in Germany for international students 2025, including Munich, Berlin, and Frankfurt. One can check the city-wise cost of living in Germany from the table.
| City |
Monthly Total (€) |
Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Heidelberg |
830 – 870 |
Student dorm, cooks at home, gym included |
| Munich |
840 – 860 |
Expensive rent, part-time job essential |
| Stuttgart |
620 – 650 |
Dorm, student discounted ticket, basic lifestyle |
| Berlin |
845 – 870 |
Moderate rent, gym, phone + public transport |
| Weimar |
600 – 650 |
Shared dorm, low transport cost, cooks at home |
| Trarben-Trarbach |
540 – 600 |
Affordable city, insurance + lab expenses |
Is €992 Enough to Live in Germany?
For smaller cities like Trier, Heidelberg, Weimar, or Halle, €992 is manageable and might even allow a little savings. However, in expensive cities like Munich, Berlin, or Hamburg, students might struggle without a part-time job in Germany. One can also check the current Germany’s job market scenarios to have a better idea about their future career prospects.
Cost of Living in Germany Depends on:
- Where you live (small town vs big city)
- Your lifestyle (basic vs frequent outings/shopping)
- Your accommodation choice (dorm vs studio)
For Most Students:
- In small cities: Yes, €992 is enough (you might even save)
- In large cities: You may need a part-time job to manage
Key Advice for Students Planning to Study in Germany:
- Learn German early to increase job opportunities
- Budget carefully in the first 2-3 months
- Use student deals and discounts (ISIC card helps)
- Cook at home and avoid frequent takeout
So, is €992 enough to live in Germany as a student? Yes, in smaller cities. But in bigger ones, it might only cover your basics. Planning ahead, budgeting smart, and working part-time can make all the difference. Every student's lifestyle and city choice impacts their monthly budget, so prepare accordingly.
Share this guide with your friends moving to Germany – and start budgeting smart!
No, Schiller International University Germany acceptance rate is 100%, which makes it easier to secure admission. Generally, it is not hard to get into Schiller International University Germany. International students must meet all the admission requirements at SIU Germany and submit proof of English proficiency, if there first language is not English.
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