Cost of Living and Side Job Options for International Students in Germany in 2025
Germany continues to be one of the most popular and budget-friendly destinations in Europe for international students. With a reputation for world-class education, vibrant student life, and tuition-free programs at most public universities, it’s no surprise that students from all over the world choose Germany as their study-abroad destination.
But here’s the truth: studying abroad is not just about securing a seat at a university—it’s about managing your finances smartly and sustaining your life independently in a new country.
As of June 2025, Germany has seen a slight but significant increase in the average cost of living, especially in rent, energy, and public utilities, which has led the government to raise the monthly financial proof requirement for international students to €992 (up from €934 in previous years). This change is not arbitrary—it reflects the evolving economic environment, inflation adjustments, and increased demand for student accommodation in major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg.
This updated guide is critically important for students planning to move to Germany in 2025 or early 2026. Understanding how much it will realistically cost to live, what documents you’ll need for your student visa, and what job opportunities you’re legally allowed to pursue—will save you from future stress, legal issues, and financial trouble.
In this blog post, you’ll find everything you need to know about:
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- The real cost of living in Germany in 2025
- Updated financial requirements for student visa applications
- Tuition fee breakdowns (including state-specific charges)
- What kind of side jobs international students can do
- Pay rates, legal working hours, tax rules, and where to find part-time jobs
Whether you’re an undergraduate, a postgraduate, or a PhD candidate, this article is your go-to resource to plan, prepare, and thrive in Germany as an international student in 2025. Let’s dive in
Why Planning Your Finances Matters?
Studying abroad isn’t just about academics—financial preparedness plays a crucial role. International students must present proof of financial resources to get their German study visa. And once you’re in Germany, knowing how much to budget and how you might supplement your income with part-time work will make your experience smoother and less stressful.
Cost of Living in Germany from June 2025 Onwards
Germany offers a good balance of affordability and quality of life. However, your exact monthly expenses will depend on the city, lifestyle, and type of accommodation.
Average Monthly Living Expenses (as of 2025)
| Category | Estimated Monthly Cost (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared flat/student dorm) | 300 – 450 |
| Food and groceries | 200 – 250 |
| Health insurance | 110 – 130 |
| Public transportation | 30 – 60 |
| Mobile/Internet/TV license | 35 – 50 |
| Study materials & miscellaneous | 30 – 50 |
| Total | ~842 – 950 |
Proof of Financial Resources: What You’ll Need?
To apply for a German student visa, non-EU/EEA students must submit proof of financial stability. Accepted formats include:
- Blocked Account (Sperrkonto): Most common method; you deposit at least 11,904 EUR.
- Setup cost: 70 – 150 EUR
- Monthly withdrawal limit: typically 992 EUR
- Scholarship award letter (DAAD, foundations, university scholarships)
- Proof of parental income
- Formal obligation letter from a resident in Germany.
Tuition and Semester Fees in Germany (As of June 2025 – Average)
| Type of Fee | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition (Public Universities) | Free for most Bachelor’s and Master’s |
| Baden-Württemberg (non-EU students) | 1,500 EUR/semester |
| Bavarian Universities (selective) | Varies—check with your university |
| Semester Contribution | 100 – 400 EUR per semester |
The semester contribution includes student services, student union fees, and often a local transport ticket.
Side Jobs Options for International Students in Germany
Many students choose to work part-time to ease financial stress. However, your work rights depend on your nationality.
Work Hour Restrictions
| Student Category | Work Limits |
|---|---|
| EU/EEA students | No restrictions; >20 hrs/week = pay contributions |
| Non-EU/EEA students | 140 full days OR 280 half days per year |
| Academic assistants | No restriction, but must notify foreign office |
Self-employment and freelancing are not allowed for non-EU/EEA students without special permission.
List of Popular Side Jobs in Germany Eligible for Students in 2025
Here are common and legal student job types in Germany:
| Job Role | Average Pay (per hour) | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Waiter/Barista | 12.82 – 15 EUR | Restaurants, cafes, local listings |
| Academic Assistant (HiWi) | 13 – 17 EUR | University departments, notice boards |
| Library/Research Assistant | 13 – 16 EUR | Academic institutions |
| Private Tutor | 15 – 25 EUR | Online portals, student ads |
| Trade fair assistant | 14 – 20 EUR | Event companies, job portals |
| Babysitter or Dog Walker | 12 – 18 EUR | Classifieds, local family networks |
| Courier/Rider | 12.82+ EUR | Apps (Flink, Lieferando, Uber Eats) |
German Minimum Wage & Student Taxation in 2025
In 2025, Germany’s minimum wage has been set at €12.82 per hour, providing international students with a fair income base for part-time work. If you’re working in a mini-job—a type of employment where you earn up to €556 per month—you do not have to pay income taxes.
This option is popular among students who want to earn a little extra money without entering the tax system. However, if your monthly income exceeds the €556 threshold, you are required to register for a tax identification number (tax ID).
Once you’re registered, a portion of your income will be withheld as taxes. The good news is that this isn’t money lost—you can submit a tax return at the end of the year and potentially receive a full or partial refund, depending on your total earnings and any allowable deductions. It’s a simple and student-friendly system that ensures fair contributions without overburdening low-income earners.
Social Security & Insurance Contributions in Germany
| Condition | Do You Pay Contributions? |
|---|---|
| Mini-job < 556 EUR/month | No |
| Job < 3 months or < 70 days/year | No |
| Job > 20 hrs/week or > 556 EUR/month | Yes – Health, pension, care, unemployment |
| Academic assistant < work limit | Usually no (depending on wage) |
⚠️ Working too much may delay your degree and trigger insurance obligations.
Monthly Budget Chart for International Students to Live in Germany – June 2025 Onwards
| Category | Monthly Range (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Rent | 300 – 450 |
| Health Insurance | 110 – 130 |
| Groceries | 200 – 250 |
| Transport & Internet | 70 – 100 |
| Semester Contribution* | ~30 – 70 (per month avg) |
| Extras (books, fun) | 50 – 100 |
| Total | ~842 – 950 |
* Based on semester payment divided monthly
References
- https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/work-career/side-jobs/
- https://www.daad.de/en/studying-in-germany/living-in-germany/finances/.
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