What is the Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students? All You Need to Know
Moving to Germany for your studies marks an exciting new chapter in your study abroad experience. It’s a big transition that comes with both opportunities and responsibilities, which requires planning and research. This guide will help you navigate through all the essential expenses and financial considerations to make your time in Germany a blast!
What Is the Cost of Living in Germany for Indian Students?
The cost of living in Germany for Indian students will vary depending on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation choice. On average, Indian students in Germany can expect to spend around €900 – €1,500 (around ₹80,000 -₹1,35,000) per month or €11,904 (around ₹1,392,922) per year to cover living expenses in Germany. Fortunately, in comparison to other European countries like the UK or France, Germany is an affordable destination for students with discounted health insurance, semester tickets, and student discounts on entertainment.
Why Should Indian Students Understand Living Costs Before Moving?
Understanding the cost of living in Germany for Indian students is important. By knowing the expected costs and the cultural aspects, you will:
Plan and Budget Better: Knowing the costs upfront helps you budget realistically and avoid financial stress.
Many international students underestimate costs when they arrive, which leads to difficulties managing finances abroad.
Avoid Last Minute Stress: You could expect hidden costs like registration fees, health insurance, semester fees, or even unexpected increases due to policy changes, so planning ahead with proper research will reassure and prepare you for your time in Germany.
Visa Requirements: German visa applications require proof of finances. So, students must demonstrate they have at least €11,904 per year (€992 per month) as of 2025 in a blocked account to cover living costs.
City Choice: As we mentioned before, living costs vary between German cities. Understanding the differences will help you choose locations that align with your budget.
How Much Should I Budget Monthly as an Indian Student in Germany?
Indian students should allocate expenses for different categories. On average, students should keep a budget of around €850–€1,200 per month based on city and lifestyle. Keep in mind the typical monthly expenses:
- Accommodation: €250-€350 (shared) / €400-€600 (private)
- Food and groceries: €150-€200
- Health Insurance: €80 – €120
- Transportation: €40 – €60
- Utilities: €150 – €250
- Personal expenses: €100 – €200
Keep around 10-15% extra for unexpected costs like academic fees, medical emergencies, or travel.
Are Scholarships Available for Indian Students in Germany?
Yes, there are a range of scholarship opportunities for Indian students in Germany. However, it’s important to note that many publicly funded scholarships—such as those offered by DAAD or German political foundations—are primarily intended for students applying to public universities. As a private, state-accredited institution, Gisma students are generally not eligible for these schemes.
Publicly funded scholarship options include:
- DAAD Scholarships: Study scholarships for postgraduate studies, language courses, and research grants. Note: These are typically available for public universities or programmes affiliated with public institutions.
- Erasmus+: For exchange programmes at participating universities.
- Foundation Scholarships: Offered by political or non-profit foundations (e.g., Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, Heinrich Böll Foundation, Friedrich Ebert Foundation). Some may require German language proficiency and are usually for public university students.
Private university funding – what Gisma offers:
At Gisma University of Applied Sciences, we offer tailored tuition fee support and merit-based funding options for Indian students. These include:
- Partial scholarships
- Flexible payment plans
- Performance-based tuition reductions
To explore what you’re eligible for, visit our Fees & Funding page or enquire now to speak with a programme consultant.
Where Can Indian Students Find Affordable Accommodation?
If you’re planning to study in Germany, student accommodation will likely be one of your biggest living expenses. The good news is that there are plenty of affordable housing options available for Indian students across major cities like Berlin and Potsdam, depending on your preferences and budget.
Student Residences: This is the cheapest and most affordable option, with the rent averaging around €250–€450 per month. Student residences usually include a communal kitchen and bathroom, offering a social experience.
Shared Flats: Flat shares or house shares (also known as Wohngemeinschaften) cost between €400 – €700 per month. These are typically shared with three or four people; each person will have their own room with a shared living room, kitchen, and bathroom.
Private Apartments: If you prefer living by yourself, private rentals offer en-suites or one-bedroom flats, averaging €700–€1,200 per month. These are the most expensive, as you cover all the costs on your own.
Use platforms like University Living, Amber Student, UniPlaces, Housing Anywhere, or join city-specific Facebook/student groups to search for suitable housing.
Accommodation at Gisma
At Gisma, we understand that finding the right accommodation can feel overwhelming — especially when moving to a new country. That’s why we provide a free Accommodation Advisory Service to help you navigate your options in Berlin or Potsdam.
We’ve also partnered with Edge Student Hub to give Gisma students access to exclusive, fully serviced student housing. With flexible options, secure buildings, and a vibrant international community, Edge offers a hassle-free student living experience tailored for international students.
Learn more about accommodation options at Gisma here.
Why Is Health Insurance Important for Indian Students in Germany?
Health insurance is mandatory for all international students living and studying in Germany. It ensures you are covered for all medical care, giving you peace of mind.
- A legal requirement for visa applications and university registration.
- The German healthcare system ensures you receive all the necessary treatment.
- Without health insurance, a doctor’s visit can cost €50 to €200 or more for emergencies.
If you are a student under 30, you can choose to register with a public health provider and benefit from the statutory health insurance scheme. However, students over 30 will only have the possibility of obtaining private health insurance in Germany.
To assist you in obtaining the necessary health insurance, you can visit the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and Expatrio to learn more.
What Financial Support Options Are Available for Indian Students?
Besides scholarship options, there are other cost-saving strategies to assist with living expenses in Germany for Indian students:
Part-Time Jobs
International students can work 120 full days or 240 half days a year, often in hospitality, tutoring, or campus jobs. The wages in Germany are €12.82 per hour (as of January 2025).
Education Loans and Funding
Financing your studies abroad is a big step — and there are several options Indian students can explore when applying to universities in Germany. However, it’s important to understand that some government-funded financial aid schemes in Germany are intended primarily for public universities.
German-Based Loans (with restrictions)
Some German funding programmes exist but are generally limited in scope:
- BAföG: A government grant/loan scheme intended primarily for German and EU citizens studying at public institutions. International students at private universities are typically not eligible.
- Bildungskredit: A federal loan programme for students in the later stages of their studies. In some cases, this may include private universities, but eligibility depends on the course and institution status.
Indian Bank Loans
Indian banks such as ICICI Bank (iSMART Education Loan) offer international education loans that can be used to fund studies at state-accredited universities like Gisma. These loans may cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs.
Why Gisma Is the Best University for Indian Students
Gisma University of Applied Sciences is an excellent choice for Indian students who want a high-quality education, affordable fees, and an international environment in Germany. Here’s why you should choose Gisma for your studies:
Top German Cities
Gisma has campuses in two locations: Potsdam and Berlin. These student-friendly cities offer cultural richness, career opportunities, and a plethora of leisure activities.
- Berlin has over 500 new tech start-ups each year and is considered a start-up capital, home to some of the largest national and international companies like Siemens, Deutsche Bahn, Zalando, and Mercedes-Benz. Learn more about the Gisma Berlin campus and its offerings.
- Potsdam, a UNESCO World Heritage city, also offers an economic landscape, featuring sectors such as software & IT, film & media, life sciences, and healthcare. Explore the Gisma Potsdam SAP Think Campus and see what awaits you.
Internationally Recognised Programmes
Our English-taught undergraduate and postgraduate programmes offer hands-on, internationally recognised education. With an AMBA-accredited Global MBA, expert professors, industry partnerships, and innovation, we ensure students are equipped with the tools, connections, and support from day one.
Academic and Student Support
We understand the challenges Indian students may encounter, and to help support students, there is comprehensive support, including visa assistance, housing support, and cultural integration programmes. Our team is always available to help whenever you need it.
Strong Industry Connections
Through a combination of personalised career coaching, industry partnerships/events, and skill development workshops, we prepare students to succeed in today’s job market. Our alumni are placed in the top 20 global companies like Amazon, Texas Instruments, Safran Engineering, and Bosch.
Conclusion
Germany is an ideal country for Indian students seeking high-quality degrees at reasonable costs. Success in managing the living expenses in Germany for international students requires careful planning, smart budgeting, and taking advantage of available financial support options.
The key to successful financial management lies in thorough research, early preparations, and making informed decisions about accommodation, food, transportation, and lifestyle choices.
Now that you know the cost of living in Germany, are you ready to begin your German adventure? Explore Gisma University of Applied Sciences and see how we can help achieve your academic and career goals.
FAQs
What is the average monthly cost of living in Germany for Indian students?
The average monthly living cost for Indian students in Germany may fall between €900-€1,500 (around ₹80,000 – ₹1,35,000) per month or €11,904 (around ₹1,392,922). This includes rent, food, transport, and health insurance. Do keep in mind that this varies based on city and lifestyle, as smaller cities tend to be more affordable than metropolitan areas.
How much does student accommodation typically cost in Germany?
Student accommodation costs between €250–€450 per month on average for student residencies, €400- €700 per month for shared flats/apartments, and €700 – €1,200 per month for private studios/apartments. Through platforms like University Living and UniPlaces, average monthly rent ranges from €400 to €700, including utilities.
How can students save money on transportation in Germany?
Students can reduce transportation costs by purchasing semester tickets (usually €150-€300 per semester) that provide unlimited public transport access across Germany. Alternatively, cycling is also a popular and cost-effective option in Germany, with many cities offering a robust cycling system and affordable second-hand bicycles.
How Can Indian Students Manage Transport Costs Effectively?
Many universities, including Gisma, offer the Semester Ticket, where you’ll receive information on how to apply when you enrol. Another approach is using the bike-sharing system, walking for short distances, or taking advantage of group travel discounts for longer trips. Download travel apps like the BVG Berlin app or BD Navigator for real-time updates, check fares, and plan routes.
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