No insurance, no study

Health insurance coverage is mandatory for all students in Germany. Without proof of coverage, no German university will accept you.

It is quite possible that your insurance policy in your home country is also valid in Germany. This is the case for public health insurance providers in EU member states, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland and Macedonia. Germany has signed social insurance agreements with these countries to ensure cross-border coverage. With your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), you are also insured in Germany.

In some circumstances, health insurance from private providers in other countries may also be recognised in Germany. Enquire at your health insurance provider for more information. If your private insurance policy is recognised, you will need confirmation that you are exempt from mandatory public health insurance coverage. Only with this letter of confirmation will you be permitted to enrol at university. Furthermore, you will not be able to switch to a public health insurance provider for the duration of your studies.

If your insurance policy in your home country is insufficient, you will have to take out a policy in Germany. Public health insurance coverage costs approximately 60 euro per month.

Whatever the case, be sure to clarify your health insurance situation before you travel to Germany. In order to enrol, you will have to provide proof of health insurance coverage to your university. Your health insurance provider in your home country and the International Office at the university of your choice will be happy to help you.

At many universities the Studentenwerk offers service packages for international students which include accommodation, meal vouchers and a health insurance policy.

You can find further information on medical insurance in Germany on the website of the DAAD.