Financing

Even though international students are not required to pay tuition fees in Germany (with only a few exceptions), studying does cost money. Please read the following information carefully to determine whether you can afford studying in Germany without having to take a part-time job. As a rule, every student is responsible for financing their studies on their own.

Expenses (including the semester fee and DSH language course fee)
Students in Münster normally need between € 850 and € 900 each month to cover living expenses in Münster without having to work part-time. There are no tuition fees charged for regular degree programmes at the University of Münster; the only exception applies to in-service continuing education programmes. However, at the beginning of each semester, you will have to pay a semester fee of around 350 euros. Language course students must pay an additional course fee of € 500 per semester. The residence permit, if applicable, costs about € 110 per year, and then there are the monthly living expenses.

Students in Münster can expect to pay between 850 to 900 euros per month to cover their living expenses. These include:

  • Rental fee for a room: ca. € 400 – € 500
  • Health insurance: ca. € 110
  • Food and recreation: ca. € 250 – € 300
  • Study materials: ca. € 50 – € 100

Please keep in mind that your expenses will be higher at the beginning of the semester. In addition to the semester fee and if applicable, your residence permit, you should set aside extra money for a possible deposit on your room/apartment, household goods, books for your courses etc.


Proof of funding for visa
Students who require a study visa in Germany must prove that they have access to sufficient funds to cover all expenses while living in Germany (at least € 11,904 per year). This is usually done by setting up a blocked account, into which you (or your parents) deposit the required amount. For more information about blocked accounts, visit:

Information on blocked account


Financial aid
Because students are not required to pay tuition for degree programmes in Germany (with few exceptions), there are no full scholarship programmes offered at universities. Partial scholarship programmes are available, e.g. the “ProTalent” scholarship programme at the University of Münster, as well as numerous individual funding opportunities. Please note that many scholarships have special eligibility requirements, such as excellent academic achievement, volunteer commitment during one’s studies, and in many cases, German citizenship. If you are interested in applying for such a scholarship, we recommend informing yourself in advance as to whether you meet the requirements and how long the application process takes.

ProTalent Scholarship programme [de]

Scholarship database of the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service)

More information on part-time jobs
 

Financial hardship
Despite your best plans on financing your studies, unexpected events can lead to financial difficulties. In such cases, it is possible to apply for short-term financial support. Are you already enrolled as a student in Münster and are struggling financially? Then please do not hesitate to contact the International Office.

Advice in the International Office