General Requirements
To be eligible for Bafög support, certain general criteria must be met. These include nationality, residence, and the age of the student. Typically, students must be German or possess a specific residence status.
Nationality and Residence Status
Entitlement to Bafög benefits mainly exists for German citizens. However, international students can also qualify under certain conditions, such as having a permanent residency perspective or having lived in Germany for a longer period.
Age of the Student
Eligibility for Bafög payments is generally tied to a maximum age. For a bachelor’s degree, the age limit is 30 years; for a master’s degree, it is 35 years. Exceptions are possible if there are special reasons.
Type of Vocational Training (Ausbildung)
In addition to university studies, other educational pathways can also be eligible for funding. This includes technical colleges, vocational schools, and evening schools. It is important that the vocational training (Ausbildung) is completed in full-time.
Initial and Second Vocational Training (Ausbildung)
Qualification for Bafög support generally applies to the first vocational training (Ausbildung). Funding for a second vocational training (Ausbildung) is only possible under certain conditions, such as if the first vocational training (Ausbildung) was not qualifying for a profession.
Proof of Performance
Students must demonstrate their eligibility through corresponding academic achievements. Starting from the fifth semester, proof of performance is required to maintain the entitlement to educational funding.
Income and Assets
The income and assets of the student as well as the income of the parents influence the amount of Bafög funding. Surpassing certain allowances will reduce the funding entitlement.
Parent-independent Bafög
In specific cases, it is possible to receive parent-independent Bafög. This applies to students who can prove several years of professional work experience or have already completed a vocational training (Ausbildung) qualifying for a profession.
Vocational Training (Ausbildung) Abroad
Funding through Bafög is also possible for training phases abroad. Special regulations apply concerning the duration, amount of funding, and the recognition of academic achievements.
Application Procedure and Deadlines
The application for Bafög funding should be submitted well in advance of the start of the vocational training (Ausbildung). The relevant offices for educational funding at the study location are responsible. It is advisable to complete the application forms carefully and to attach all necessary documents.
Repayment of Funding
Bafög benefits are granted half as a grant and half as an interest-free loan. Repayment of the loan portion begins five years after the end of the maximum funding duration and is limited to a maximum amount.
Special Cases and Exceptions
There are special regulations for certain groups of people, such as students with children, people with disabilities, or students in special social situations. Additional benefits or differing conditions may apply here.
Consultation and Support
For questions regarding eligibility for Bafög funding, the advisory services of student unions and the offices for educational funding are available. Individual counseling can help clarify the chances of funding.
Current Changes and Legal Situation
The legal regulations regarding Bafög can change. It is therefore important to stay informed about current developments to assert possible claims.