Wohngeld in 30 seconds
Wohngeld is a state rent subsidy that is never repaid. Students are excluded as long as they are eligible for BAföG in principle — even with a €0 decision due to parental income. Entitlement only exists when BAföG is structurally ruled out. Responsible for A23 in Großbettlingen: the Wohngeld office of Landkreis Esslingen.
Typical cases where students get Wohngeld
- ✓Standard study period exceeded: beyond the maximum funding period — no BAföG in principle, Wohngeld possible.
- ✓Missing progress certificate: BAföG permanently stopped (§ 48) — Wohngeld possible.
- ✓Part-time study: not BAföG-eligible — Wohngeld possible.
- ✓Semester off: no BAföG during that time — Wohngeld possible (you must show other income).
- ✓Second degree without BAföG entitlement — Wohngeld possible.
- ✓Change of subject without substantial reason after semester 2 — Wohngeld possible.
How to apply
You need: a rental contract in your name (the A23 all-in rent is fully stated in the contract), proof of income (working-student job, parental support) and evidence that BAföG is ruled out in principle — easiest via the BAföG rejection letter. Apply online at landkreis-esslingen.de or via the Großbettlingen municipality; advice is free. The amount depends on rent, income and household size — the state of Baden-Württemberg offers a non-binding online calculator.
As of September 2026, without guarantee — the Wohngeld office decides bindingly.
Frequently asked questions
I get €0 BAföG because of my parents’ income — so Wohngeld?
Unfortunately no. A €0 decision means: eligible in principle — and therefore excluded from Wohngeld. Wohngeld only applies when BAföG is structurally ruled out (study period exceeded, part-time, second degree etc.).
Does a furnished room with all-in rent count?
Yes. What matters is the rental contract in your name. With all-in rents the office deducts included heating and utilities using flat rates.
How much Wohngeld is realistic?
Impossible to say in general — depending on income, from under €50 to several hundred euros. The office calculates bindingly and free of charge.
Can I combine Wohngeld and a working-student job?
Yes — the job income counts as income, but an entitlement can remain. Without own income the office asks what you live on (e.g. parental support).