The number of students and pupils receiving BAföG in Germany saw a slight increase in 2023, with average monthly support rising to 640 euros. This led to a rise in total expenditure for educational support.
The number of students and pupils receiving BAföG (Federal Training Assistance Act) increased slightly in 2023. According to the Federal Statistical Office in Wiesbaden, a total of 635,600 individuals received financial aid, a 0.9 percent increase compared to 2022.
BAföG stands for Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz. It is a program in Germany that provides financial support to students during their studies. If you or your parents have a low income and you’re not in Germany on a student visa, you can apply for BAföG. The allowance you receive helps cover living expenses, tuition fees, and other costs related to your education. Millions of young people have benefited from this assistance, allowing them to pursue their chosen training or education path regardless of their family’s financial situation. To qualify, you need to be enrolled in a university course or a professional education program.
Second consecutive year of growth
“This marks the second consecutive year of a slight increase in the number of recipients, following a yearly decline from 2012 to 2021,” the statisticians noted. Specifically, 501,400 students and 134,200 pupils received BAföG.
The amount of BAföG support also increased. On average, recipients received 640 euros per month, 47 euros or 8 percent more than the previous year.
The total expenditure for BAföG grew by 14 percent to 3.4 billion euros, as reported by the Federal Statistical Office.
As in previous years, more women received financial aid, making up 58 percent of the recipients compared to 42 percent for men. Additionally, 55 percent of all recipients received full funding.
Expenditures for student support amounted to 2.9 billion euros (an increase of 17 percent), while 526 million euros were spent on pupils (an increase of 0.9 percent). On average, students received 663 euros per month (an increase of 52 euros), while pupils received 537 euros per month (an increase of 20 euros).
The duration of BAföG support varied, and the amount of individual support depended on factors such as the type of educational institution and the recipient’s living situation. 28 percent of all recipients lived with their parents, with a higher percentage among pupils (45 percent) compared to students (24 percent).
Starting from the upcoming winter semester, needy students will receive more BAföG. The basic allowance for students will rise from 452 to 475 euros, and the housing allowance for those not living with their parents will increase from 360 to 380 euros. This results in a total increase from 812 to 855 euros.
The BAföG rates for pupils will also be increased, effective at the start of the new school year. The Federal Training Assistance Act was introduced in 1971 and has since become synonymous with the financial aid itself. Initially, it was a pure grant without repayment, later becoming a full loan. Since 1990, the rule has been that half of the aid is a grant and the other half must be repaid.
