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Sperrkonto Estimator 2026

Germany Study Cost Calculator

Calculate the finances required for Germany. Public universities are tuition-free, but you must prove you have €11,904 in a Blocked Account (Sperrkonto).

Currency Mode

Adjust Germany Study Budget Parameters

Lifestyle Presets
0
Free (Public)30k60k+
2 Years
1 Yr 3 Yrs 5 Yrs
950
500 1.5k 3k
Official Proof of Funds (Blocked Account (Sperrkonto))

You must deposit 11,904 in a blocked account/GIC before arriving. This money will be returned to you in monthly payouts.

Estimated Grand Total
€29,475

Calculated for 2 years of studies in Germany.

Total Tuition Fees€0
Total Living Expenses€22,800
Visa & Health Insurance€2,675
Travel & Emergency Buffer€4,000
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Expense Allocation Chart

Tuition Share0%
Tuition0%
Living Costs77%
Visa & Insurance9%
Travel & Emergency14%

Is Studying in Germany Really Free? (2026 Breakdown)

Yes, in 15 out of 16 German federal states, public universities do not charge any tuition fees to international students. The state of Baden-Württemberg (cities like Stuttgart, Karlsruhe, Heidelberg) charges small tuition fees of €1,500 per semester. However, other expenses like the Semester contribution and Blocked Account must still be planned.

1. Semester Contribution (Semesterbeitrag)

Even though public universities are tuition-free, all students must pay a semester fee twice a year (upon enrollment and re-registration). This fee ranges from €150 to €350 per semester.

CategoryAvg. Cost / Yr (EUR)
Public Uni Tuition€0
Semester Contributions (2 Semesters)€300 - €700
Statutory Health Insurance (TK/AOK)€1,300 - €1,500

2. The Sperrkonto (Blocked Account) Rule

To satisfy your German National Visa (Type D) requirements, you must transfer €11,904 to a blocked account provider approved by the Federal Foreign Office (like Fintiba, Expatrio, or Coracle). You are permitted to withdraw exactly €992 per month to pay rent, buy groceries, and cover transport tickets.

🇩🇪 Official Federal Foreign Office ApprovedExpatrio Value Package

Open Your €11,904 Germany Blocked Account & Free Health Insurance

Expatrio provides instant digital Blocked Account setup within 24 hours, including free TK Public Health Insurance and Free Incoming Travel Insurance required for your German Embassy Visa appointment.

Open €11,904 Blocked Account with Expatrio →

German Study Visa Checklist

  • Admission Letter (Zulassungsbescheid): From an accredited German university.
  • Sperrkonto Confirmation: Official certificate showing €11,904 has been deposited.
  • Travel Insurance: Incoming health insurance prior to arrival.
  • APS Certificate: Mandatory for students applying from India, China, and Vietnam.

Germany Cost FAQs

Is studying in Germany actually free?

Yes, tuition is free at public universities in 15 out of 16 German states. However, you must pay a semester contribution (€150 to €350) which includes public transit.

How much is the Blocked Account for Germany in 2026?

The German blocked account (Sperrkonto) requirement is €11,904 per year, which allows you to withdraw €992 per month for living expenses.

What is the German student visa fee?

The standard fee for a National Student Visa (Type D) is €75, payable at the German Embassy or Consulate.

Can I study in Germany without speaking German?

Yes! There are thousands of English-taught programs, especially at the Master's level. You will only need to show IELTS/TOEFL scores rather than German language certificates.

What is the statutory health insurance cost for students in Germany?

Statutory health insurance (like TK or AOK) is mandatory and costs approximately €110 to €125 per month for students under 30.

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