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Education

Applying for BAföG for the first time

Initial application for BAföG financial aid for high school students in grade 10 and above, apprentices, and college students.

Processing: approx. 1 months
Online application possibleSuccess rate: 72.0 %

How to proceed

  1. 1

    Submit your application as early as possible

    Retroactive effect applies only from the month of application; there is no retroactive entitlement.

  2. 2

    Please include proof of the parents' income

    Parents' tax assessment notices for the year before last.

  3. 3

    Review the decision and flag the application for continued authorization

    BAföG is re-approved annually; be sure to submit your renewal application on time.

Required documents

  • Certificate of EnrollmentMandatory

    Proof of enrollment at the university.

  • Parents' income tax assessmentMandatoryOften forgotten

    Tax assessment for the year before last.

Responsible authority

The authority of your main place of residence is responsible.Find authority →

Fees

Varies by case

Processing time

approx. 1 months

Official: max. approx. 2 months

Online application

Online possible – at the responsible authority

Common mistakes

  • • Application not submitted in the first semester (no retroactive effect beyond the application date)
  • • Parents' tax assessment notices not included

Common reasons for rejection

  • • Parents' income is too high
  • • Income/assets in excess of the exemption amount
  • • Change of major not justified

You can usually file an objection against a rejection.

The essentials before applying

Who is eligible?

High school students, apprentices, and college students who live on their own or whose parents have a low income.

Income limit

Income-based; maximum amount of approximately €934 in 2024 (for students with housing costs).

Processing time

Nationwide: approx. approx. 1 months

Success rate

approx. 72.0 % (estimate)

Most common mistakes

  • •Application not submitted in the first semester (no retroactive effect beyond the application date)
  • •Parents' tax assessment notices not included

Common reasons for rejection

  • •Parents' income is too high
  • •Income/assets in excess of the exemption amount
  • •Change of major not justified

Alternatives

  • Check related services in the application assistant
  • Use social counselling before applying

If rejected

File a written objection within 30 days – with reasons why the decision is wrong and any missing evidence.

Questions & Answers

Do I have to pay back my BAföG?▼

Half of the amount is an interest-free loan that must be repaid starting five years after the end of the funding period. The other half is a grant.

Read more