Introduction
Germany is one of the top destinations for international students, offering world-class education, affordable tuition, and high quality of life. However, one critical requirement that all international students must fulfill before studying in Germany is securing valid health insurance.
Health insurance is not just a formality—it is mandatory for enrollment at any German university and for obtaining a residence permit. Understanding the types, costs, and procedures for enrolling in health insurance in Germany is essential to ensure a smooth transition to student life.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover:
- What health insurance is mandatory for international students in Germany
- The types of health insurance available (public vs. private)
- Average costs in 2024–2025
- How to enroll in a plan
- Common mistakes and tips
1. Is Health Insurance Mandatory for International Students in Germany?
Yes, health insurance is mandatory for all students studying in Germany, including international students from outside the EU/EEA. Without proof of health insurance, you cannot:
- Enroll in a university
- Obtain a residence permit
- Access regular healthcare services
This applies whether you’re in Germany for a full degree, an exchange semester, or preparatory courses like a Studienkolleg or language programme.
2. Who Needs Which Type of Insurance?
Health insurance options in Germany are split into two main categories:
A. Statutory (Public) Health Insurance – Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV)
- Compulsory for most students under the age of 30 enrolled in degree programmes
- Highly regulated and standardized
- Accepted everywhere in Germany
B. Private Health Insurance – Private Krankenversicherung (PKV)
- Required if you’re over 30 or not eligible for public student insurance
- Often cheaper initially but comes with strict terms
- May be used temporarily for language courses or preparatory programs
✅ Who Can Use Public Health Insurance?
- Students under 30 years old
- Enrolled in full-time, state-recognized universities
- Not working full-time or as freelancers
❌ Who Needs Private Insurance?
- Students over 30 years old
- Those enrolled in non-degree courses (e.g., language school)
- Students in preparatory or Studienkolleg courses
- Students who voluntarily choose private insurance (with restrictions)
3. Cost of Health Insurance for Students in Germany (2024–2025)
Costs vary depending on your age, insurance provider, and whether you’re on public or private insurance.
💰 A. Public Health Insurance Cost
As of 2024–2025, public insurance costs about:
| Item | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Health insurance (basic rate) | €112–€120 |
| Long-term care insurance (Pflegeversicherung) | €30–€35 |
| Total (approx.) | €140–€155/month |
Top providers include:
- Techniker Krankenkasse (TK)
- AOK
- DAK
- Barmer
These companies all offer similar services, though some have better English support, faster processing, or student packages.
💰 B. Private Health Insurance Cost
Private plans vary widely. Some can cost as low as €30–€70/month, especially if you’re young and healthy, but:
- Coverage is often limited
- Many do not include long-term care insurance
- You may need to pay upfront for treatment and claim later
- Some are not recognized by all immigration offices or universities
⚠️ Caution: Once you switch to private insurance, going back to public is often not allowed while studying.
4. How to Enroll in Health Insurance as a Student in Germany
✅ Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Decide on Public or Private Insurance
Check your eligibility based on age, program, and visa type. If you’re eligible for public insurance, it’s usually the safer and easier choice.
Step 2: Choose a Provider
Public options: TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK
Private options: Mawista, EDUCARE24, HanseMerkur, DR-WALTER
Look for providers that offer:
- English-language support
- Student-specific packages
- Fast digital sign-up
Step 3: Apply Online or In Person
You’ll need:
- Passport
- University admission letter
- Address in Germany (temporary is okay)
- Bank account (optional initially)
Step 4: Receive Insurance Confirmation
Your provider will give you:
- A certificate of coverage
- A digital notification (sent directly to your university, called an “M10” form)
This certificate is mandatory for enrollment at your German university.
Step 5: Pay Monthly Premiums
Once enrolled, you’ll be expected to pay premiums monthly. You can usually set up a SEPA bank transfer.
Step 6: Receive Your Insurance Card
Once you arrive in Germany, your insurer will send an electronic health card (Gesundheitskarte) which you need for all medical appointments.
5. What’s Covered by German Student Health Insurance?
With public insurance, you are covered for:
- Doctor visits (Hausarzt, specialists)
- Hospital stays
- Emergency treatment
- Prescriptions
- Mental health services
- Maternity care
- Preventive checkups (vaccines, dental checks)
Private plans vary. Some may not cover:
- Chronic illness
- Pre-existing conditions
- Mental health support
- Long-term care
6. Health Insurance and Student Visa Requirements
When applying for a German student visa, you must show proof of health insurance. Usually, one of these:
- Temporary private insurance (for visa application in home country)
- Then switch to public insurance after arriving and registering
Visa officers may not accept basic travel insurance. They want to see valid German health insurance, especially for stays longer than 90 days.
7. Can I Use My Home Country Insurance in Germany?
✳️ EU/EEA Students:
- Can often use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
- Must still register with a German provider to get an exemption certificate
✳️ Non-EU Students:
- Must take out German insurance
- Only a few bilateral agreements (e.g., with Turkey, Tunisia, Serbia) may apply
Always check with your university whether your foreign insurance is valid under German law.
8. Special Cases: Language Course or Studienkolleg Students
If you’re attending a language course or Studienkolleg, you likely cannot enroll in public student insurance. Instead, you’ll need private insurance until you enroll in a full degree program.
Recommended plans:
- Mawista Student Classic
- EDUCARE24 by DR-WALTER
After officially enrolling in a degree program, you can switch to statutory insurance (if under 30).
9. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Delaying enrollment: You can’t register at university without proof
- ❌ Choosing ultra-cheap private plans without checking coverage
- ❌ Missing long-term care coverage (Pflegeversicherung) — mandatory!
- ❌ Assuming your travel insurance is enough
- ❌ Trying to switch from private to public insurance mid-program
10. Helpful Tips for Students
- Apply for insurance as soon as you receive your admission letter
- Ask your insurance provider to send the digital notification (M10 form) directly to the university
- Keep a copy of your health insurance certificate for visa, university, and emergency purposes
- If unsure, most universities have student advisory offices or international student support services that can help
11. Recommended Public Insurance Providers for Students
| Provider | Monthly Cost | English Support | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| TK (Techniker Krankenkasse) | ~€120–145 | ✅ Excellent | tk.de |
| AOK | ~€140 | ✅ Good | aok.de |
| Barmer | ~€145 | ✅ Available | barmer.de |
| DAK | ~€140 | ✅ Available | dak.de |
All offer online sign-up and direct digital registration with German universities.
Conclusion
Health insurance is a non-negotiable part of your student life in Germany. Choosing the right plan ensures:
- You meet legal requirements
- You can register at your university
- You’re protected if you get sick or injured
If you’re under 30 and in a degree program, go with statutory public insurance. If you’re not eligible, choose a trusted private provider that meets all legal requirements.
Take the time to understand your options, and don’t leave this step until the last minute. Your health — and your studies — depend on it.