In short
Funding goes to students in a first degree at a state-recognised university, full-time, who are under 45 at the start and whose need is not covered by parental or own income. A master’s counts if it builds on your bachelor’s.
The checklist
- ✓Nationality/status: Germans, EU citizens with worker status or permanent residence, and non-EU citizens with certain residence titles (e.g. after 5 years of lawful residence with parental employment).
- ✓First degree: bachelor’s plus consecutive master’s are eligible; a second degree usually is not.
- ✓Age limit: under 45 at the start of the study phase — with exceptions (child raising, second-chance education).
- ✓Academic progress: from semester 5 the office requires proof of normal progress (§ 48 BAföG). Since the 2024 reform, one "flexibility semester" can postpone this.
- ✓Assets: €15,000 allowance under 30, €45,000 from 30 — cars and savings count.
- ✓Change of subject: usually harmless up to the end of semester 2 (bachelor’s); after that a substantial reason is required.
Typical rejection reasons — and what then?
Most common: parental income above the allowances, standard study period exceeded, missing progress certificate. Important: if you have no BAföG entitlement in principle, you can often claim housing benefit — the rejection letter is the key document. Alternatives: KfW student loan, scholarships, working-student job.
As of September 2026, without guarantee — the funding office decides bindingly.
Frequently asked questions
Do I get BAföG for a master’s?
Yes, if the master’s builds on your bachelor’s (consecutive) and you are under 45 at the start. The master’s counts as part of the first degree.
What happens after the standard study period?
Funding generally ends with the maximum funding period (= standard study period). Extensions exist for illness, child raising, committee work or disability — and final-phase support may be available as an interest-bearing bank loan. Housing benefit can then be an option.
Does my parents’ income always count?
Almost always — except for parent-independent BAföG, e.g. after several years of employment following vocational training, or if you are 30+ at the start of your studies.
How strict is the progress check?
Required is the usual level of achievement after 4 semesters — usually an ECTS certificate from your university. If you are close, use the flexibility semester or cite reasons (illness etc.).