Health insurance for students in Germany – guide
If you want to study in Germany, health insurance is mandatory. Without valid health insurance, you cannot enroll at a university and, in many cases, you will not receive a student visa either.
Germany has one of the best healthcare systems in the world. For international students, that also means certain rules must be followed.
In this guide you will learn:
- which health insurance students need
- what types of insurance exist
- how much insurance costs
- which insurance is suitable for international students
- when you should take out insurance
Why is health insurance mandatory in Germany?
Germany has a general obligation to hold health insurance. Everyone who lives in Germany must have health insurance.
For students, health insurance is needed for:
- enrollment at the university
- applying for a residence permit
- medical treatment in Germany
Universities check before enrollment whether valid insurance is in place.
More on enrollment:
➡️ Enrollment at German universities
What types of health insurance are there?
In Germany there are two main systems:
Statutory health insurance (GKV)
Statutory health insurance is the best option for many students.
An established statutory insurer is DAK.
Cost:
approximately EUR 120–150 per month
Benefits:
- comprehensive cover
- accepted by all universities
- straightforward signup
Private health insurance (PKV)
Private insurance is mainly relevant for certain groups, for example:
- students over 30
- language-school students
- students at a Studienkolleg
- short stays
Benefits can vary and premiums are often lower, but cover is sometimes less comprehensive.
Which insurance do international students need?
Requirements depend on which phase you are in.
Before your studies begin
If you do not yet have a university place, you often need incoming insurance.
It covers the period:
- before enrollment
- during language courses
- while you prepare for your studies
During your studies
Once you are enrolled, you usually need statutory health insurance.
This insurance applies for the whole of your degree.
How much does student health insurance cost?
Costs depend on your age and insurance model.
Typical costs:
| Insurance | Monthly cost |
|---|---|
| Statutory health insurance | EUR 120–150 |
| Incoming insurance | EUR 30–80 |
| Private health insurance | varies |
Most international students choose statutory health insurance.
When do you need to take out health insurance?
You need insurance at the latest for enrollment at the university.
The typical sequence is:
- apply to universities
- receive an admission letter
- take out health insurance
- complete enrollment
More on the application process:
➡️ Applying to German universities
How do you take out health insurance?
The process is usually very simple.
Step 1: Choose a provider
You select a statutory health fund or a suitable student insurance product.
Step 2: Register online
Many insurers offer a fully online signup.
You provide:
- personal details
- university
- study start date
Step 3: Receive your insurance certificate
After successful registration you receive an insurance confirmation.
This is sent directly to the university or you submit it yourself.
What does health insurance cover?
Statutory health insurance covers many medical services.
These include:
- doctor visits
- hospital treatment
- medication
- preventive check-ups
- some dental treatment
That way you are comprehensively protected while you study.
Common problems with health insurance
Many international students run into similar difficulties.
Wrong type of insurance
Some incoming policies are not accepted by universities.
Insurance taken out too late
Without insurance you cannot enroll.
Missing insurance confirmation
Universities need an official certificate.
Other important steps before your studies
Besides health insurance, you need to prepare several other things.
Blocked account
Student visa
Plan your living costs
➡️ Cost of living for students
Conclusion
Health insurance is one of the most important requirements for international students in Germany.
You need it for:
- enrollment at the university
- medical care
- your stay in Germany
Most students choose statutory health insurance because it offers broad cover and is accepted by all universities.
If you arrange your insurance in good time, you can prepare for the start of your studies in Germany without unnecessary stress.
Plan your studies in Germany
The path to studying in Germany involves many steps:
- applying to universities
- blocked account
- student visa
- health insurance
- enrollment
Germany for Students helps you plan every step clearly and prepare for your study start in the best possible way.
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