KfW loan in 30 seconds
The state KfW bank pays out €100–650/month (your choice, adjustable), up to €54,600 over a maximum of 14 semesters. There is no bank-style credit check and no collateral — parental income is irrelevant. The price: 6.53% effective annual interest (variable, as of April 2026, adjusted twice a year). Also for part-time, distance and dual programmes; age limit 44.
When it makes sense — and when not
- ✓As a gap-filler: BAföG + side job cover 80% — the loan closes the last €100–200/month. Small amounts, small interest burden.
- ✓In the final phase: write your thesis instead of working — a few months of loan instead of dropping out.
- ✓Careful with full funding: €650/month over 10 semesters means about €39,000 of debt plus interest — always check BAföG, scholarships and Wohngeld first.
- ✓Interest is variable: adjusted every six months (recently 6.04 → 6.53%). During repayment you can switch to a fixed rate.
Repayment
After the payout phase comes a grace period of 6–23 months without instalments, then you repay over up to 25 years — extra repayments are free. Apply online at kfw.de with your enrolment certificate; payout from the following month. Can be combined with BAföG and scholarships.
Interest rate as of 01.04.2026 (6.53% eff. p.a.), adjusted each 1 April / 1 October. Without guarantee — kfw.de (product 174) is binding.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a credit record or guarantor?
No. The KfW student loan comes without collateral and without a classic credit check — only a serious negative record can disqualify. That is exactly why it works for students without high-earning parents.
Does the loan apply to dual-study programmes?
Yes — full-time, part-time, dual and career-integrated programmes are all financed, as long as you are enrolled at a state-recognised university in Germany.
Can I change or pause the instalment?
Yes. You can adjust the payout every six months (down to €0), and during repayment you can adapt instalments, pause for up to 23 months and make free extra repayments.
What does the loan cost me in the end?
Example: €200/month over 6 semesters = €7,200 paid out. At 6.53% interest and brisk repayment the total burden is roughly €8,500–9,500 — the faster you repay, the cheaper.