Student Health Insurance in Germany – What You Need to Know

Key Takeaways

• Coverage is legally required and needed for enrollment and visa steps.
• Choose between public plans (e.g., TK) and private offers (e.g., ottonova).
• Expect broad medical coverage; dental/vision often limited.
• Public student premiums ≈ €129–€145; private from ≈ €79–€119.
• Some groups must use private plans; EHIC or agreements may apply for certain visitors.
• Arrange coverage before arrival or get short-term incoming cover until semester start.

Why health insurance is mandatory for students in Germany

You cannot register at a university or get a student visa without recognized medical coverage. This rule comes from mandatory law that applies to all residents undertaking studies, even for a single semester.

Who the legal rule covers

The mandate applies to degree learners, exchange participants, preparatory course attendees, PhD candidates, and guest researchers. Eligibility for public health tariffs varies by group, so confirm which option fits your status.

Visa and enrollment steps

Consulates usually accept short-term incoming cover for arrival and require proof that full coverage will start by semester. For enrollment, public providers send an electronic Versicherungsbescheinigung and enrollment/exmatriculation notifications directly to universities.

• Two proofs: one for the visa (arrival cover + confirmation) and one for university enrollment (full plan).
• Missed payments can trigger a notification to your university and risk temporary exmatriculation.
• EHIC or bilateral agreements may be exceptions; paid work can change your status.

Insurancy offers neutral support to confirm what documentation satisfies both consulate and university requirements for your situation.

Student health insurance in Germany: public vs. private explained

Your age, program type, and university recognition decide whether public or private plans fit you best.

Eligibility at a glance: age, study type, and university recognition

Under 30 and enrolled at a state‑recognized university usually qualify for public health insurance tariffs. This route offers standardized monthly rates and wide coverage.

If your program is not state‑recognized or you are over 30, you will typically need private health insurance or a voluntary public option with higher costs.

When you must choose private

Language courses, Studienkolleg, many PhD candidates not on payroll, guest scientists, and most over‑30 learners normally need private plans. Check recognition status before you apply to avoid delays.

Exemption from statutory insurance and what it means

If you can join public but prefer private, file a Befreiung within three months of enrollment. Once granted, returning to public student coverage is rarely possible during the same course.

Insurancy helps expats assess eligibility and compare health insurance providers unbiasedly so you can choose a compliant, cost‑effective path.

What’s covered by student health insurance

Understanding benefits helps internationals get care fast and avoid billing shocks. Below is a clear summary of typical coverage and practical differences between public and private plans.

Core medical benefits

Outpatient care usually covers GP visits and specialists. With public health funds you often need a referral for some specialists.

Inpatient stays, surgeries, prescriptions, vaccinations, screenings, and emergency services (ER and ambulance) are standard inclusions under approved plans.

Mental health, dental, and vision

Mental health services such as counselling and psychotherapy are covered, though authorization steps and wait times vary. Look for English support if you need it.

Dental care typically includes routine exams; fillings and prosthetics may be partly reimbursed. Private tariffs often offer stronger dental and vision benefits.

Tip: Check co‑payments, maternity rules, and network billing before procedures. Insurancy can help compare benefit summaries so you match a plan to real needs.

How much student health insurance costs per month

Budgeting per month becomes simple when you compare public fund rates and private tariffs.

Public student rates and long-term care (Pflegeversicherung)

Public funds charge a near‑standard monthly fee that already includes mandatory long‑term care. Typical totals for 2024–2025 fall between €129 and €145.

Examples: TK ≈ €131.84, hkk ≈ €129.96, BKK firmus ≈ €129.28. Students aged 23+ without children pay a slightly higher nursing care share.

Private plan pricing factors: age, health, and tariff

Private tariffs start lower for young entrants but vary by entry age, medical questionnaire results, and chosen benefits (hospital class, dental limits, worldwide cover).

Typical private ranges begin around €79–€119 and can reach €139+ for extended packages.

Costs after age 30 and voluntary public membership

At age 30 the reduced student rate ends. Voluntary public membership then often costs about €235–€257 per month. Private student‑focused plans may still be available but usually cost more with age.

Tip: Compare price and benefits with providers and budget for deductibles or co‑payments. Insurancy can map your age and needs to compliant options per month.

How to apply and get insured before you start your studies

Secure recognized coverage before arrival to keep paperwork smooth. Start early so your visa and enrollment files stay complete.

Timing tip: If you arrive before semester start (for example, before April 1 or October 1), buy short-term incoming cover to bridge the gap. Consulates often accept this for visa proof.

1. Choose a provider based on eligibility (statutory or private).
2. Complete the online application with ID and university admission details.
3. Pay the first premium to activate the plan; a German IBAN for SEPA debit speeds processing.
4. Collect your electronic health card after arrival for doctor visits.

Public funds and your university exchange the Versicherungsbescheinigung and enrollment/exmatriculation notices digitally. Once enrollment is registered with a public fund, switching providers usually requires a 12‑month wait.

Keep copies of all confirmations and your blocked account proof if requested. Insurancy can guide timelines, compare health insurance providers, and ensure compliance without promoting a single name.

Special situations for international students

Short exchange stays, preparatory courses, and research visits each bring unique coverage requirements you should check early.

Language and preparatory course residents

Preparatory course attendees cannot join public student tariffs and must use private health plans during the course.

Once admitted to a recognized degree, you may switch to public coverage if eligible. Keep documents to prove the status change for the university and visa office.

Exchange stays and EHIC use

Short exchanges from EU/EEA/CH often use an EHIC card for care. Longer or integrated exchanges can enroll into public health arrangements if the exchange is part of a degree.

PhD candidates: employed vs not

PhD staff hired by a university usually join statutory schemes via payroll. A non‑employed doctoral researcher may qualify for student tariffs if under 30; otherwise private or voluntary public is common.

Guest scientists and social agreements

Visiting researchers need proof of accepted coverage. Some partner countries allow continued home coverage with a formal certificate. Always secure confirmations before travel to avoid visa delays.

“Prepare documentation early: EHIC cards, home certificates, and insurer confirmations save time at enrollment and for your visa.”

Insurancy can map each path, liaise with insurance providers, and confirm acceptance for visa and university processes. Plan costs per month early and keep records handy.

Managing your coverage during your stay

Keep your plan active and predictable while you study. Your earnings, enrollment status, and program changes all affect coverage rules. Follow clear steps to avoid gaps and prove compliance to authorities.

Working while studying and its impact on coverage

Most student tariffs remain valid while you are enrolled and under the age limit. Low‑hour campus jobs usually do not change that.

If your salary climbs past the annual threshold (~€73,800 for 2025), employee rules let you opt for private. Below that level, statutory contributions generally stay mandatory.

Switching between public and private: what’s possible and when

You can change public funds after 12 months with formal notice. Moving from public to private by filing an exemption is possible, but returning is tightly limited during the same course.

Re‑entry to public often requires a new job that creates a statutory obligation or finishing and starting a new, unrelated program.

Leaving Germany: terminating coverage and getting proof

Notify your provider early, submit deregistration documents, and follow their termination steps. Request written confirmation of cancellation for visa and future applications.

• Keep membership letters, receipts, and university notices.
• Avoid late payments; they complicate switching or closure.
• Insurancy can review plans, coordinate provider notices, and prepare the right documents to keep your stay compliant.

Conclusion

To finish: secure recognized coverage early to avoid delays with visa or enrollment.

, Keep documents ready: admission letter, travel dates, blocked account proof, and your policy confirmations. These items speed visa checks and university registration.

Choose between public student tariffs if eligible or a private plan when eligibility limits apply. Both systems cover core medical care; private health plans can vary widely, so check benefit details before you commit.

Insurancy offers neutral help to compare health insurance providers, explain trade‑offs, and confirm compliant insurance coverage. Save every insurer and university confirmation for future proofs like work onboarding or permit renewals.

With clear steps and the right documents, securing the right plan is straightforward — and support is available at each stage.

FAQ

Why is coverage mandatory for students coming to Germany?

The law requires proof of medical coverage to enroll at a university and to receive a visa. Authorities and universities need confirmation that you can access care and pay for treatment, so valid documentation is checked during matriculation and visa processing.

Who must have public statutory plans and who can opt for private?

Most young learners under a certain age and those enrolled in state-recognized programs qualify for statutory schemes. Those over the age limit, self-funded postgrads, or people with specific employment contracts may be eligible or required to choose private providers. Eligibility depends on age, study type, and employment status.

When do I have to switch to a private plan?

You must switch if you exceed the statutory age threshold or if you take up a job that disqualifies you from the public system. Also, certain preparatory or short-term programs may not fit statutory rules, making a private tariff necessary.

What does typical student coverage include?

Standard packages cover doctor visits, hospital stays, prescription medicines, emergency care, and basic preventive services. Long-term care contributions are usually included under statutory schemes. Benefits for mental care, dental, and vision vary by plan.

Are therapy, dental work, and eye exams covered?

Mental health counseling and basic psychotherapy are often covered, though access may vary. Dental check-ups and preventive care are typically included; major dental procedures and extensive vision care may require supplemental plans or co-payments, especially with private tariffs.

How much does coverage cost per month?

Public rates for enrolled learners are usually a fixed reduced monthly fee plus long-term care contributions. Private premiums depend on age, medical history, and chosen tariff. Costs rise after certain ages, and voluntary continued membership in a public scheme can affect price.

When should I arrange coverage before arrival?

Arrange proof of coverage before you apply for a visa and well ahead of semester start. Some universities require confirmation at enrollment. Aim to secure a policy several weeks in advance so paperwork and any required translations are ready.

What are the steps to get covered?

Choose a reputable provider, compare tariffs and benefits, complete the application, submit required documents, pay the initial premium, and obtain your membership certificate or insurance card. Provide this to your university and immigration office as needed.

Which documents will my university and insurer exchange?

Providers and universities typically handle confirmation of enrollment, membership certificates, personal ID or passport, and visa-related forms. Keep records of contracts, payment receipts, and any exemption letters for official procedures.

How do exchange visitors and EHIC holders fit into the system?

EU visitors with a valid European Health Insurance Card can often access care for a limited stay. Exchange agreements and bilateral treaties may change entitlements, so verify coverage and carry supporting documents. Short-term stays still require proof for some universities.

What about language course and preparatory program participants?

Those on language or pathway courses may need private short-term plans if programs aren’t recognized for statutory eligibility. Check visa requirements and university rules; some providers offer targeted plans for preparatory students.

Do PhD candidates need different coverage?

If employed by a university or research institute and paid, you often enter standard employment-based schemes. Unemployed or self-funded doctoral researchers may remain eligible for reduced student-type plans or must choose private contracts depending on age and status.

Can I work while studying without affecting my policy?

Part-time jobs with limited weekly hours usually keep your eligibility for reduced public rates. Exceeding income or hour thresholds or taking a full-time role can change your classification and require switching plans or paying different contributions.

Is it possible to switch between public and private during my stay?

Switching is possible but restricted. Once you opt for private coverage, returning to a statutory scheme can be difficult after certain milestones or age limits. Plan ahead and compare long-term implications before changing.

How do I terminate coverage when I leave the country?

Notify your provider with proof of deregistration or departure and request a termination confirmation. Keep records of coverage end dates and obtain a certificate if future visa or university steps require it.

Are there well-known providers I can consider?

Reputable statutory funds include Techniker Krankenkasse and AOK. Private firms such as Allianz, Mawista, and HanseMerkur offer targeted plans. Compare benefits, waiting periods, and premium structures before deciding.

What should I watch for when comparing plans?

Check coverage limits, waiting periods, hospital versus outpatient benefits, mental care and dental limits, premium adjustments with age, and whether the plan meets visa and enrollment requirements. Also verify multilingual customer support and claims procedures.

Can I get an exemption from the statutory system?

Certain older applicants or those already privately covered may apply for exemption. Exemption rules depend on legal thresholds and proof of comparable coverage. Universities and immigration offices can confirm required documentation.

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