A dual study programme offers the ideal combination of theory and practice, but the financial situation of many students is often tight. Can student support (BAföG) help here? In this article, we explain everything you need to know about BAföG for dual study programmes, from the requirements to alternatives.
What is BAföG?
BAföG stands for the Federal Training Assistance Act, which provides students with financial support if their own resources or those of their parents are insufficient. The aim of BAföG is to enable everyone to study or train regardless of their social background. Half of the funding is granted as a grant and half as an interest-free loan. Repayment of the loan portion is limited to a maximum of 10,010 €.
BAföG for dual study programmes: is it possible?
In principle, dual students can receive BAföG, but some restrictions apply here. A key point is that the salary from a training relationship or a compulsory internship is fully offset against the funding and the normal asset allowance of 556 € is not granted. This means that if you earn more than the set requirement rate (currently 934 €), you are generally no longer entitled to BAföG. However, an exception can be made in the case of high income-related expenses or long distances between the place of training and the place of study.
Do you still need to apply for BAföG? With our BAföG calculator from LeistungsLotse, you can quickly and easily check whether and how much BAföG you are entitled to and send your application directly to us. Check now!
Guide to applying for BAföG for dual study programmes
Preparation: First find out whether your university or academy is eligible for BAföG funding. A look at the BAföG regulations or an enquiry at the student advisory service will help. Or simply use our BAföG calculator!
Required documents: Collect salary slips, income statements from your parents, your tenancy agreement and proof of enrolment.
Application: Use platforms such as LeistungsLotse to complete the application online.
Submit supporting documents: All required documents must be submitted in full within the deadlines. Incomplete documents can lead to delays.
Wait for the notification: After checking, you will receive a notification with the approved funding amount. If there are any questions, the BAföG office will contact you.
Repayment after dropping out
If you discontinue your studies, you are still obliged to repay the loan portion of the BAföG. Repayment begins at the earliest five years after the end of the maximum funding period, regardless of whether you have completed your studies or not. However, there are ways to reduce the repayment, for example by providing proof of income that shows that you are below the exemption limit. Complete exemption from repayment is only possible in exceptional cases.
Income limits and how they are affected
The income limits for BAföG are made up of your parents' income, your own income and your assets. It is particularly relevant for dual students that the salary from the practical phase is taken into account in full. Strategies such as recognising high income-related expenses, such as travel costs or double housekeeping, can help to reduce the amount that can be taken into account. Allowances on parents' income are also taken into account.
BAföG abroad for dual students
Dual students can also apply for BAföG abroad under certain conditions. The requirements include
The foreign university or training centre must be recognised.
The period of study or training abroad must be at least six months (one semester).
Income and assets must comply with the BAföG limits.
Additional advantages of BAföG abroad:
Higher rates of need: Higher costs such as tuition fees, higher living costs or travelling expenses can be claimed abroad.
Grants for travelling expenses: These are granted independently of the regular rate of need.
Support for language courses: Language preparation courses can also be subsidised.
Conclusion
BAföG for dual study programmes is possible, but comes with a few hurdles. Thorough preparation and counselling are essential in order to check the requirements and make the most of the funding. If you have the opportunity, you should also consider BAföG abroad, as this provides additional support. For everyone else, alternatives such as scholarships or student loans are available to finance your studies.
Do you still need to apply for BAföG? With our BAföG calculator from LeistungsLotse, you can quickly and easily check whether and how much BAföG you are entitled to and send your application directly to us. Check now!