Health insurance is required by law for all residents of Germany, which includes international students. Without it, students cannot enrol at universities, apply for residence permits, or access essential healthcare services. So, be sure to arrange your health insurance before you arrive in Germany!
Incoming international students may choose between public health insurance (GKV) and private health insurance (PKV). The type of insurance you can purchase may change depending on your age, programme, and other specific circumstances. Read on to learn how the different kinds of insurance work, and an overview of how to get health insurance in Germany as an international student.
Germany is an academic powerhouse and home to 10% of the world’s top universities. From blocked accounts to programme options, ApplyBoard can help you prepare to study in Germany!
Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV): Public Health Insurance
Public health insurance (also called statutory health insurance) in Germany works well for most international students. Around 90% of Germany’s population is covered by GKV. In general, it’s the best insurance option for students under 30, or those pursuing undergraduate or master’s degrees.
Doctoral candidates with an employment contract (either with the university or an external employer) are also eligible for GKV at set student rates.
GKV is widely accepted by universities and healthcare providers. It provides comprehensive coverage at a fixed monthly cost, making it an affordable and reliable choice. If your partner and children travel to Germany with you while you study, they may be included in your statutory health insurance policy if they aren’t working.
Did You Know: Some health insurance policies from other countries are recognized in Germany. Check with your current health insurance provider to see if your plan is.
GKV Coverage Includes:
- Dental care
- Hospital stays and emergency care
- Preventive care like vaccinations and screenings
- Prescription medications (with small co-payments) and medical aids
- Pregnancy and childbirth services
- Telehealth/video call services in English
- Visits to a doctor (general practitioners and specialists)
In 2025, international students can expect to pay around €110 per month for public health insurance until they reach age 30. Generally, public health insurance does not have any pre-existing condition exclusions. Most incoming international students are immediately covered once they show proof of enrolment at a German academic institution.
To sign up for public health insurance and get a cost estimate, students can use free services like Feather.
Tip: Some universities have preferred partnerships with specific insurance providers, which have faster processing times and additional student benefits.
Private Krankenversicherung (PKV): Private Health Insurance
Private health insurance is offered by over 40 insurance companies across Germany. It provides vital coverage for international students who are not eligible for GKV, including self-funded doctoral students, preparatory course students, and language course students. Students can purchase a PKV plan in addition to GKV if they’d like additional dental insurance or hospitalization benefits.
While international students in a degree programme who are over age 30 may still access public health insurance, they’re no longer eligible for the subsidized student rate. This means that for these students, private health insurance can be a more affordable option. Unlike statutory health insurance, private insurance plans are priced depending on the holder’s age, gender, occupation, and general health.
In general, while private insurance offers more flexibility and can have shorter wait times for services, it can also have higher monthly premiums. These premiums can range between €150 per month for a low-risk individual to over €1,500 per month for someone who has more complex medical needs.
Also, note that your children aren’t covered for free under private insurance plans. Coverage for each child will cost an additional amount.
You may see deals on private insurance plans, so it’s important to know what’s included with a specific plan. Many companies offer multiple levels of coverage, so you’ll have to decide which level is right for you. Base-level plans may not include copays for doctor visits, prescription coverage, or enrolment fees. PKV may also have restrictions on what health services are covered.
Tip: Some universities offer guidance on recommended insurance plans. Students should always check to see if their university accepts their chosen insurance provider before purchasing a plan.
PKV Coverage Often Includes:
- Dental care
- Expenses related to hospital stays (beds, treatment, surgeries, specialists)
- Lab tests, X-rays, and other diagnostics
- Medications and prescriptions (brand-name and generic, subject to limitations)
- Vision care
- Visits to doctors and specialists (outpatient care)
For many international students, working part-time is a helpful way to cover some expenses. Set yourself up to balance work and study successfully with our guide on how to work while studying in Germany.
How to Apply for German Health Insurance as an International Student
While the process may vary from case to case, most students will follow the process below to get health insurance in Germany:
- Research and select an insurance provider: With dozens of companies to choose from, it’s important to find a company and plan that works for your needs.
- Complete and submit the insurance plan application form
- Pay your monthly premium: Paying your first monthly premium activates your plan. To do so, you’ll often need to have a valid bank account in Germany.
- Receive your health insurance card
If you have GKV, your Gesundheitskarte (electronic health card) is proof of health insurance. It must be shown at every medical appointment, and will be issued immediately once you sign up.
If you have PKV, your insurance company will provide a Versicherungsshein, or document outlining your insurance coverage. It outlines how long your policy lasts for and what it includes.
The European Health Insurance Card gives holders access to state-provided health care in the European Union countries.
ApplyBoard has partnered with Expatrio and Coracle, some of Germany’s leading insurance providers. Learn more about their offerings today!