What is student insurance in Germany and what are its types?

Student insurance refers to insurance policies specifically designed to meet the needs of students. These policies typically provide coverage for various aspects of a student's life, including health, personal belongings, and travel.

Most colleges and universities require their students to carry health insurance coverage — and even if they don’t, having health coverage is essential. Most schools offer health plans for their students, but traditionally, those plans included low lifetime and annual benefit maximums, and benefits that weren’t particularly comprehensive.

What is the student insurance in Germany and what does it cover?

Student insurance in Germany refers to insurance policies tailored to the unique needs of students studying in the country. These policies typically encompass various aspects of a student's life, including health coverage, personal belongings protection, and even travel insurance for those studying abroad or frequently traveling. Health insurance is especially significant, either through parental plans or university-provided options.

Additionally, students may consider renters insurance, travel insurance, car insurance, disability insurance, and even life insurance, depending on their circumstances. It's crucial for students to explore available insurance plans, review policy details, and select the coverage that aligns with their specific needs during their educational journey in Germany.

Different types of student insurance in Germany

The German government has provided many benefits to its domestic and foreign students in addition to their studies. One of the important benefits of studying in Germany is the student insurance that all students have. In this section, we are going to introduce the types of student insurance in Germany.

In Germany, there are two main types of student insurance: government or statutory insurance and private insurance. The type of insurance you're eligible for depends on your educational status and age.

Student Insurance in Germany: State Insurance

Public health insurance, also known as state insurance or Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung, is provided by the German government and covers approximately 90% of German citizens. This insurance includes essential healthcare services like hospital care and doctor visits. However, it may not cover certain specialized services like ophthalmology or dentistry, or coverage for these services might be limited. The largest state insurance providers in Germany are typically AOK, Barmer GEK, and TK.

Student Insurance in Germany: Private Insurance

Private insurance, the other type of student insurance in Germany, is offered by private health organizations rather than the government. Approximately one out of every ten people in Germany opts for private health insurance, and there are around 40 private insurance companies offering such coverage. Some well-regarded options for student insurance in Germany include plans like EDUCARE24 by DR-WALTER. Additionally, you can explore private insurance providers such as Allianz Care, Cigna Global, ARAG, Ottonova, and DFV. These diverse options allow students to choose insurance coverage that aligns with their specific needs and preferences.

Here is some German student insurance:

1.Health Insurance:  Many students are covered under their parent’s health insurance plans, but some may opt for student health insurance offered by their educational institution. These plans usually cover medical expenses, including doctor's visits, hospital stays, and prescription medications.

2.Renters Insurance: If students are living in off-campus housing, renters insurance can protect their personal belongings, such as electronics, furniture, and clothing, in case of theft, fire, or other covered incidents.

3.Travel Insurance: Students who plan to study abroad or frequently travel may consider travel insurance. This type of insurance can cover trip cancellations, medical emergencies while abroad, and lost luggage.

4.Car Insurance: For students who own or regularly drive a car, auto insurance is essential. It provides coverage in case of accidents, damage to the vehicle, and liability protection.

5.Disability Insurance: Disability insurance provides financial protection in case a student becomes unable to work or earn an income due to a disability or illness.

6.Life Insurance: While less common for students, life insurance can provide financial support to a student's family or beneficiaries in case of their untimely death.

The reason why student insurance is important in Germany?

Student insurance in Germany holds immense significance for two critical reasons. Firstly, it serves as a vital safety net for students, ensuring they have access to essential medical services when needed. Secondly, and equally crucial, it's a mandatory requirement for obtaining a study visa in Germany. To secure enrollment in one of Germany's universities, students must provide proof of health insurance coverage. Without this crucial documentation, they won't be able to pursue their academic aspirations in the country. Thus, student insurance not only safeguards their well-being but also paves the way for their educational journey in Germany.

Student insurance coverage in Germany

In Germany, having insurance is a mandatory requirement for all residents, including international students. This essential coverage, known as student insurance, is officially provided to students enrolled in universities and higher education institutions in the country. Student insurance in Germany encompasses both public and private insurance companies.

Generally, students under 30 years of age are covered by German state insurance, while those over 30 can opt for private insurance. There are exceptions, such as after completing studies, participating in mandatory training courses, caring for disabled or sick relatives, having a physical disability or illness, working at the university, or giving birth to a child in Germany, where students over 30 can still be covered by government insurance.

Student insurance in Germany typically includes comprehensive health coverage, encompassing medical expenses, psychological counseling, hospital treatment, medication, and other healthcare services. With a health insurance card, insured students can access medical services.

Another aspect of student insurance is accident coverage, which compensates for injury-related damages to others or public property. Additional coverages provide financial support in case of serious illness, accidents, or unforeseen circumstances. This insurance helps students with living expenses and income generation if they experience temporary or permanent extraordinary disability.

In summary, student insurance is obligatory in Germany, and international students must obtain this coverage. The cost of student insurance varies depending on the university's reputation and the type of insurance chosen. Students seeking detailed information about insurance costs should contact their respective universities or higher education institutions for relevant details.

Here's some information to help you understand the key aspects of student insurance in Germany:

Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany, whether they are international or domestic. There are two types of health insurance: statutory (public) and private. Most students opt for statutory health insurance, which offers comprehensive coverage and is usually more affordable.

1. Public Health Insurance: If you're under 30 years old and earning less than a certain amount, you are typically required to enroll in a public health insurance plan. Public insurance providers include AOK, TK, Barmer, and more. They offer similar coverage but may have slightly different rates and services.

2. Private Health Insurance: Students over 30, students with private insurance from their home country, or those who opt for private insurance for specific reasons can choose private health insurance. Private insurance plans often provide more flexibility and additional services but can be more expensive.

Personal Liability Insurance

Personal liability insurance in Germany provides coverage of up to €500,000. This insurance serves as supplementary coverage, stepping in when your parents' personal liability insurance either doesn't cover the damage or offers insufficient coverage. The terms and conditions of this personal liability insurance outline the specific situations and events that are covered and those that are not.

As a student, it's important to check the terms of your parents' personal liability insurance to determine if and until what age you are covered. This age limit can vary among insurers. For instance, if your parents have personal liability insurance with ABN AMRO, you're automatically covered until the age of 27, even if you no longer reside at home.

Home Contents Insurance

Home contents insurance in Germany provides coverage for your personal belongings within your residence. This coverage includes protection against various events such as fire, storms, water damage due to overflowing or leaking, and theft following a break-in.Importantly, your belongings are insured not only at your current address but also during a house move. The policy specifies the maximum payout amounts in case of damage and outlines the situations where coverage applies. It's essential to note that if you share a house with others, theft is only covered if the break-in occurs in the part of the house exclusively occupied by you; communal areas are typically not covered.

Accident insurance

Accident insurance in Germany offers supplementary coverage for an additional €0.30 per month, extending its protection globally. If you plan to travel abroad for an extended period, it's essential to notify us at least 14 days before your departure so we can assess the most suitable insurance for your new circumstances. The terms and conditions specify the circumstances under which payouts will be made in the event of an accident.

Accident insurance provides coverage for

• Complete or partial permanent disability: A maximum of €35,000.

• Retraining costs: Up to €5,000 per year for five years.

• Death benefit: €2,500 for single-person households and €5,000 for married or cohabiting individuals.

It's important to note that accident insurance covers the policyholder only, even if you are married or cohabiting. Exclusions from accident insurance coverage include accidents resulting from alcohol, narctics,o or stimulant consumption, as well as accidents during dangerous sports or activities. A comprehensive overview of covered and non-covered situations is provided in the terms and conditions.

Student insurance in Germany offers comprehensive coverage, encompassing essential healthcare services such as medical care in hospitals and health centers, outpatient care, prescription medication costs, routine medical check-ups, basic dental care, maternity care, and emergency services like ambulance transportation. In unfortunate situations, it also includes provisions for repatriation of remains to the home country and funeral expenses in case of a patient's demise.

Steps to get student insurance in Germany

Getting student insurance in Germany is a vital step for international students planning to study in the country. It's a requirement for university registration and an essential aspect of life in Germany. Fortunately, the process is straightforward and typically done online. Here are the steps:

1.    Choose between government or private insurance.

2.    Select your preferred insurance provider and program.

3.    Complete the online insurance application form on your chosen company's website.

4.  Receive an email with your student health insurance certificate, including a list of required documents for the registration process in Germany.

5.    Gather and complete the necessary documents.

6.     Finalize the process to secure your student insurance in Germany.

Read more: Healthcare Policies and Regulations

Examining several student insurance plans in Germany

Germany offers various student insurance options for international and domestic students. Here are some valid student insurance types in Germany:

Health Insurance (Krankenversicherung)

• Statutory Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung - GKV): Most students under the age of 30 who are pursuing a degree in Germany and are not earning a regular income are required to have statutory health insurance. This can be obtained through various public health insurance providers.

•  Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung - PKV): Students with a high income or who are older than 30 may opt for private health insurance. It can offer more extensive coverage but can be more expensive.

Liability Insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung)

Liability insurance covers damages caused by the insured person to a third party. It's highly recommended for students to have liability insurance, as it can be useful in case of accidental damage or injury.

Accident Insurance (Unfallversicherung)

Accident insurance provides coverage in case of accidents that result in injury or disability. While not mandatory, it's a good idea for students to consider this insurance for added protection.

Contents Insurance (Hausratversicherung):

Contents insurance covers the theft or damage of personal belongings within your accommodation. It can be particularly helpful if you have valuable items.

Travel Insurance (Reiseversicherung):

If you plan to travel frequently while studying in Germany, a travel insurance policy can provide coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and more.

Legal Expenses Insurance (Rechtsschutzversicherung):

Legal expenses insurance can help cover legal costs in case you need legal representation in various situations, such as disputes with landlords or visa issues.

Study Abroad Insurance (Auslandsstudiumversicherung):

For exchange students or those studying in Germany temporarily, study abroad insurance can provide coverage specifically tailored to the needs of international students.

 FAQ

1.What is the student insurance in Germany?

Student insurance in Germany refers to insurance policies tailored to the unique needs of students studying in the country. These policies typically encompass various aspects of a student's life, including health coverage, personal belongings protection, and even travel insurance for those studying abroad or frequently traveling.

2.Do International Students Need Health Insurance in Germany?

Yes, international students in Germany are required to have health insurance. Generally, health insurance is a mandatory requirement by law for all residents and citizens in Germany, including students, whether international or local.

3.How Do I Apply for Health Insurance?

•  Understand eligibility

•  Choose a  student insurance provider

•  Complete the application form

•  Receive student insurance certificate

•  Pay insurance premiums

4.Is Health Insurance Free for Students in Germany?

Health insurance is not free for students but is heavily subsidized to allow all applicants to afford it. If you cannot afford your insurance, you can look into financial aid or discuss it with the German National Association for Student Affairs, as they can guide you through what to do next in this situation.