Funding for students in Saxony: an overview of BAföG, scholarships and support schemes

Quality of life and affordable living costs: living and studying in Saxony

BAföG in Saxony: The most important form of state support

The Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG) remains the first port of call for many students. It is a form of state funding, half of which is provided as a grant and the other half as an interest-free loan. In Saxony, this funding is administered centrally by the respective local student services organisations – such as the Dresden Student Services Organisation. 

Am I eligible for BAföG? 

In principle, every full-time student at a state-recognised higher education institution is entitled to BAföG, provided that their own assets and the income of their parents or spouse do not exceed certain thresholds. It is important to note that the funding is tied to the standard period of study. Anyone who is unable to provide proof of academic achievement after the fourth semester must provide valid reasons in order not to lose their entitlement. The age limit for starting a Master’s degree has also been raised, allowing for greater flexibility in one’s educational journey. 

How much BAföG can I receive? 

The amount of the BAföG grant is made up of the basic allowance and various flat-rate allowances (e.g. for accommodation costs and health insurance). As the rates are regularly adjusted to reflect the cost of living, it is worth checking the latest tables published by the BMBF. Important: The flat-rate housing allowance for students who no longer live with their parents is a key component that eases the financial burden. 

Applying for BAföG: How it works 

Checklist for applying for BAföG

1. Use the digital portal: Submit your application via “BAföG Digital” to save time and reduce errors.
  2. Note the deadline: Submit your application at least three months before the start of the semester to ensure you receive payments on time.
3. Complete documentation: Ensure you have all the necessary supporting documents: 

• Certificate of enrolment 
• Proof of parents’ income 
• Proof of your own income (if applicable) 
• Any other individual documents as required 

4. Submit early: Due to the high workload at the student finance offices, it is advisable to submit your application early. 

These steps will help you to submit your BAföG application correctly and on time. 

Scholarships: Money for your studies that doesn’t need to be paid back

Many people think that scholarships are only for high achievers or top athletes, but that isn’t true. In fact, foundations and programmes support a wide variety of talents, social engagement and personal backgrounds. 

The Germany Scholarship at Saxon universities: funding and criteria 

The Germany Scholarship is one of the most important funding schemes. It is financed in equal parts by the federal government and private sponsors (e.g. companies or foundations). At universities in Saxony, including Dresden University of Applied Sciences, students have the opportunity to apply for the Germany Scholarship. It is not just academic grades that count, but also social skills and the ability to overcome obstacles in one’s educational journey. The monthly grant of €300 is a valuable subsidy that does not need to be repaid. 

Scholarship organisations: political, church-affiliated and independent foundations 

There are 13 major organisations for the promotion of gifted students in Germany. These not only provide financial support to students but also offer a valuable network, seminars and coaching. Anyone involved in voluntary work or pursuing a particular interest should definitely find out more about the range of options available. These foundations are not looking for flawless applicants, but for authentic individuals with strong convictions.  

In Germany, there are several organisations for the promotion of gifted students that support particularly talented undergraduates and PhD students. Here are a few examples: 

1. Studienstiftung des deutschen Volkes: This is the oldest and best-known organisation for the promotion of gifted students in Germany, supporting students from a wide range of disciplines. 
2. Heinrich Böll Foundation: Supports students and PhD candidates who demonstrate a high level of socio-political engagement. 
3. Konrad Adenauer Foundation: Supports young, talented people who excel in political and social activities. 

You can find further scholarships in our funding overview. 

The Advancement Scholarship for Professionally Talented Individuals 

The Advancement Scholarship is aimed at particularly committed and professionally qualified individuals who wish to embark on a degree programme. It offers financial support to those who have already completed vocational training and have at least two years’ professional experience.  

The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) provides full-time students in this programme with €992 per month. In addition, they receive a book allowance of €80 per month. For students on a part-time degree programme, there is an annual grant of €3,045. This scholarship is an excellent opportunity for working professionals who wish to gain further academic qualifications and study part-time without having to forego financial support. 

Tips for a successful scholarship application: What do selection panels look for? 

Selection committees are looking for authentic candidates who stand out. Here are a few tips on what to bear in mind when applying for a scholarship:

• Be authentic in your personal statement. 
• Convince them with clear and compelling reasons why you are the ideal candidate for the scholarship. 
• Highlight your initiatives and commitments that have had a positive impact on others. 
• Set out clear and specific goals for your future. 
• Avoid general and interchangeable clichés. 
• Tell your personal and unique story. 
• Find out about all relevant application deadlines well in advance. 
• Keep an eye on important deadlines so you don’t miss out on any opportunities

Part-time jobs and work-study roles: flexible ways for students to earn money

Working alongside your studies 

Many students in Saxony supplement their income with part-time jobs to make ends meet. Common areas of employment include the hospitality industry, retail and scientific research. University cities in Saxony, such as Leipzig and Dresden, offer a wide range of employment opportunities across a variety of sectors. This flexibility allows students not only to gain practical experience but also to stabilise their financial situation. At Dresden University of Applied Sciences, you usually study for just four days a week. This model offers you the ideal opportunity to apply what you’ve learnt directly in your job whilst studying, and to top up your budget at the same time. 

Working as a student trainee: What you need to know 

Working as a student trainee is considered particularly ideal among part-time jobs for students. In this role, you have the opportunity to work up to 20 hours a week in a suitable company alongside your studies. In doing so, you gain not only theoretical knowledge but also practical experience in your field of study, which can be of great benefit, particularly when you later enter the workforce. A key advantage of this role is the financial relief it offers in terms of social security contributions. You do not have to pay additional contributions towards health and long-term care insurance, although you do for pension insurance. This increases your take-home pay, making working as a working student particularly attractive. 

What legal considerations are there regarding a part-time job or a working student role? 

Caution is advised, as income exceeding a certain threshold may result in the loss of entitlement to BAföG benefits. Currently, the permitted additional income limit is an annual gross income of €7,236. It is also important to take into account the family insurance rules under statutory health insurance. If your regular monthly income exceeds the limit of €565 (€603 for a mini-job), you may be required to take out private health insurance. It is therefore advisable to obtain comprehensive information at an early stage to avoid any unpleasant surprises when your BAföG is calculated.

Student loans and education funds: another option for financing your studies in Saxony

KfW student loan: What is it? 

The KfW student loan offers students financial support for living costs and is provided by the Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau. It is flexible, allows for monthly payments of between €100 and €650, and carries interest.

    A KfW student loan should be carefully considered, particularly if BAföG or scholarships are insufficient. It offers financial flexibility but requires a disciplined repayment plan after graduation, which begins between 6 and 23 months later. It is important to seek advice beforehand to fully understand the financial burden involved. 

What are education funds and how do they work? 

Education funds, such as the Deutscher Bildung Studienfonds, are an interesting alternative to traditional student loans. With this model, repayment is flexible and based on your future income. A major advantage is that you only have to start repaying once you actually reach a certain minimum income after your studies. This can provide significant relief, particularly in the period immediately after graduation, as you do not have to worry about immediate financial obligations. However, there is a possibility that this option may be more expensive in the long run than conventional loans, particularly if your future income is high. It is therefore advisable to weigh up all the pros and cons carefully. 

Advantages and risks of student loans 

Remember to choose student loans carefully and check thoroughly whether your planned career path will enable you to make the repayments later on.

Other funding options

Support from parents (maintenance obligation) and child benefit 

Parents are obliged to provide maintenance during their child’s initial education, provided they are financially able to do so. The BAföG office calculates the required amount based on the parents’ income. If the parents are unwilling to pay, it is possible in certain cases to apply to the Studentenwerk for an advance payment.  

Child benefit is another important way to help fund your studies. As a rule, parents receive child benefit for their children in higher education up to the age of 25, provided the child is still in education. From 2026, child benefit will amount to €259 per child per month. 

Housing benefit as an alternative to BAföG 

Those who are not eligible for BAföG – for example, due to a second course of study or exceeding the maximum funding period – may, under certain circumstances, apply for housing benefit. Although this involves some red tape, it can provide significant relief for those on a tight budget. To apply for housing benefit, students must meet certain criteria, such as having an income below specific thresholds. It is advisable to contact the relevant housing benefit office at an early stage to assess your chances of approval.

Funding options at the FHD

After graduation: Everything you need to know about repaying your BAföG loan

The topic of BAföG loan repayment is initially a cause for concern for many students, but on closer inspection, the repayment model is extremely fair. Around five years after the end of the maximum funding period, you will receive a notice from the Federal Administrative Office (BVA). Don’t worry: the BVA is there to help with any questions you may have about repayment. 

Repayment period, instalment amounts and the cap on total debt 

The good news is that your BAföG debt is capped. Even if you received a substantial amount of funding during your studies, you will only have to repay a maximum of €10,010. This is an ‘education discount’ that makes the loan particularly attractive. Repayment is made in instalments over a period of up to 20 years, with the instalments adjustable to suit your financial circumstances. 

Discounts for early repayment: How to save money 

If you have the option to repay the amount in a single lump sum, the government grants a significant discount. Depending on the total remaining debt, this can save you several hundred to a thousand euros. It is worth looking into this option as soon as you receive the notification.

Funding your studies in Saxony: benefits and tips

Financing your studies in Saxony may seem complex, but it is well organised and achievable. You can benefit from the lower cost of living in the region. The local student services organisations and the FHD Student Advisory Service are your first points of contact. This will help you lay a solid foundation for your studies and allow you to focus fully on your academic goals. 

Your guide to a worry-free start to your studies:

1. Financial analysis : Draw up a detailed budget plan. What expenses can you expect in your university town?

2. Focus on BAföG : Check your eligibility for funding and submit your application to the student services organisation at least three months before the start of the semester.

3. Scholarship search : In addition to merit-based scholarships, consider programmes that match your profile, such as the Deutschlandstipendium.

    4. Working as a student : Start looking early for a job relevant to your studies – this is an excellent investment in your CV.

5. Repayment as an opportunity : View the BAföG loan as an interest-free investment in your future. 

Saxony offers the perfect setting to realise your academic dreams. With proactive financial planning, you can turn the issue of ‘student funding’ from a source of stress into a reliable companion on your path to graduation.

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