A stay abroad during your studies or even in school can be an incredible experience that you will remember for the rest of your life. Whether you decide to pursue a full degree abroad, spend a semester in another country, do an internship abroad, or go abroad as a student – all these experiences offer you the opportunity to learn about a new culture, improve your language skills, and make new friendships. One important aspect you should not overlook when planning is the financing of your stay abroad.

This is where student support for studies abroad (or AuslandsBAföG) can play a role, which can help you cover the costs of your stay.

1. What is AuslandsBAföG?

AuslandsBAföG is financial support for students and pupils who want to complete apart of their education abroad. It gives you the opportunity to finance your studies or schooling abroad, whether you are going to an EU country, Switzerland, or a more distant country like the USA, Australia, or Japan.

Note: In some cases, you can even receive Foreign BAföG alongside the Erasmus scholarship. The scholarship is not counted up to €300.

2. When is Foreign BAföG granted?

The requirements for AuslandsBAföG are quite abstract. You must have your residence in Germany, and the education abroad must be equivalent to that in Germany and last at least 6 months. AuslandsBAföG is generally granted for a maximum of one year, unless you are completing your entire degree abroad. If you study in the European Union or Switzerland, you can even be supported for the entire standard study period, which can be a great relief. For students participating in an exchange, the support is usually granted for six to twelve months.

If you are already receiving BAföG in Germany, your chances of being funded abroad are high. With our BAföG calculator from LeistungsLotse, you can quickly and easily check whether and how much BAföG you are entitled to. Check now!

3. Important To-Dos before your stay abroad

Before embarking on your adventure abroad, there are a few things you should definitely sort out. These preparations ensure that your stay goes as smoothly as possible:

Get a credit card: In many countries, a credit card is the preferred means of payment. Especially in the USA, Canada, or Australia, it is almost impossible to manage without one. So, find out about the best student credit card offers in time, allowing you to withdraw and pay worldwide without fees. There are often good offers for digital cards already.
Check for an international health insurance: Statutory health insurance only covers you within the EU and in countries with social agreements. For all other countries, such as the USA, New Zealand, or Australia, you will need special international health insurance. This not only protects you from high treatment costs but also covers repatriation to Germany if necessary. Tip: Many international health insurances also offer additional services such as liability or accident insurance.
Get a SIM card for abroad: Even in the age of Wi-Fi and hotspots, a local SIM card is often indispensable. It allows you to make cheap calls and surf the internet in your host country. Particularly outside the EU, roaming charges can be exorbitant, so a local prepaid card is the best choice.

4. Applying for AuslandsBAföG as a pupil

Not only students benefit from Foreign BAföG; pupils can also be supported during longer school stays abroad. Exchange programs to the USA, England, or Australia are especially popular. Whether you live with a host family for half a year or even attend school abroad for a year, financial support through Foreign BAföG can help you realize this dream.

5. Voluntary work abroad and AuslandsBAföG

There is also the possibility of receiving AuslandsBAföG for voluntary work abroad if it is recognized as an internship within the framework of your studies. However, you must be enrolled at a German university. This option is particularly suitable for students who want to work in fields such as education, healthcare, or environmental protection. Such a stay abroad not only enriches your resume but is also a valuable experience.

6. Visa, accommodation, and other costs

In addition to tuition fees and living expenses, visa fees are often incurred, which you should plan for in your budget. It is especially important to apply for a student visa in time if it is required for your destination country. You should also clarify accommodation early. Many universities offer dormitory places, which are often cheaper than private housing. Alternatively, you can live in a shared flat or with a host family, which gives you additional insights into the culture of your host country.

7. Why study abroad?

Studying abroad offers numerous advantages. Not only do you acquire solid language skills and expand your professional competencies, but you also become more independent and open to new experiences. Employers today particularly value applicants with international experience, as it shows that you are flexible, adaptable, and willing to take on challenges. On a personal level, you also benefit from new friendships and unforgettable experiences that studying abroad offers.

8. Conclusion

Whether you're studying for a semester in the USA, doing an internship in New Zealand, or spending a year in Australia as a student – a stay abroad is a unique opportunity that you shouldn't miss. With AuslandsBAföG, you can fulfill this dream without worrying too much about financing. Prepare well, clarify all important questions in advance, and enjoy the exciting time abroad!

With our BAföG calculator from LeistungsLotse, you can quickly and easily check whether and how much BAföG you are entitled to. Check now!

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