Starting 1st September 2024, the required blocked account amount will increase from €934 to €992 (€11208 to €11904 per year). Students are advised to update their blocked account to this new amount and increase the monthly payout to 992 EUR.

FAQs:

Q. I have a visa appointment soon and my blocked account has the old amount, what should I do?

A. Don't worry, you'll only be asked to sign a declaration (shown in the image). The visa approval won't be affected.

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Q. I already got my visa, do I need to make any change?

A. Despite having your student visa, you will be asked for this information when applying for the residence permit. In short, you need to update the blocked account amount as well.

Q. When is this new regulation passed?

A. The 29th BAföG amendment passed by the Bundestag on 13 June 2024. It comes into effect from the start of Winter Semester 2024/25.

Q. Is there a difference by age group? I read something about varying amounts for below 25, 29 and 30+.

A. When it comes to the blocked account, there is no difference. If you are an individual student, then the amount goes up from €934 to €992.

Q. Does the change apply to all countries?

A. Yes, every non-EU / EEA student who needs a blocked account for German student visa will be affected.

Q. What is BAföG?

A. To put it very simply, it is financial aid given by the German government to German students. (Students whose parents are residents / tax-payers).

Q. What are the other implications of this regulation change?

A. Here's a summary of highlights in simple terms (mostly relevant to German students):

1. Increased BAföG rates:

• Students 25-30 years old can get up to €992 per month
• Students under 25 can receive up to €855 per month
• Students 25-30 years old can get up to €992 per month
• Students over 30 can receive up to €1,088 per month

2. Higher asset allowances:

• Students up to 30 years old can have €15,000 in assets without affecting their BAföG
• Students over 30 can have €45,000 in assets

3. Increased income allowances for students:

• Students can earn up to €538 per month or €6,456 per year from mini-jobs without affecting their BAföG
• Higher allowances for married students and those with children

4. Higher parental income allowances:

• €2,540 for married parents (combined)
• €1,690 for single or separated parents (each)

5. Increased sibling allowances:

• €770 for each sibling not receiving BAföG-eligible education
• Underage siblings' income (e.g., from mini-jobs or training) won't negatively affect the sibling allowance

6. Higher social security contribution deductions:

• Employed parents: 22.3% (up from 21.6%)
• Self-employed parents: 38.8% (up from 38.0%)
• Non-employed parents: 16.5% (up from 15.9%)

7. Introduction of a "flexibility semester":

• Students can receive funding for one extra semester without specific reasons
• Can be used once during studies, either at the end of Bachelor's or Master's program

8. Easier subject change rules:

• Students have one extra semester to change subjects or drop out
• Changes before the 4th semester are generally accepted without justification
• Later changes or multiple changes require explanation

9. No impact from underage siblings' income:

• Income from siblings under 18 whose education isn't BAföG-eligible won't affect the parental allowance

These changes aim to make BAföG accessible to more students and increase the amount of support available.