BAföG Application Step by Step: How to Apply for BAföG in Germany

BAföG can provide financial security during your studies, but for many students the BAföG application initially seems complicated. Forms, applications, certificates, renewal applications – it’s easy to lose track.

In this guide, you will learn step by step how to submit your BAföG application, which forms you need, what to pay attention to when filling them out, and what matters when submitting a renewal application.

What is BAföG?

BAföG stands for Bundesausbildungsförderungsgesetz (Federal Training Assistance Act) and regulates state financial support for education.

The funding consists of 50% grant and 50% interest-free loan. This means that students at universities usually receive half of the funding as a grant and half as an interest-free government loan that must be repaid later. In other words, you only have to repay part of the amount.

Who is Eligible for BAföG?

Whether you receive BAföG depends, among other things, on your parents’ income, your own income, and your educational institution. The online BAföG calculator can help you get an initial estimate of whether you might receive BAföG and how much.

As a rule, students at universities, higher technical colleges, academies, evening grammar schools, or colleges may receive BAföG – provided that the requirements are met.

The key factors are your parents’ income, your own income, and the legal requirements. Your eligibility is always assessed individually by the responsible office for educational support.

In general, the following applies:

• You are studying at a recognized educational institution
• You are within the standard period of study (§ 15 BAföG)
• You meet the financial eligibility requirements

German Students

For German students, eligibility for BAföG mainly depends on their parents’ income in the previous calendar year. Your own income or assets are also taken into account.

Please note: Financial support must be actively applied for – it is not granted automatically.

International Students

Foreign students may also be eligible for BAföG, but not automatically.

BAföG may be possible if you, for example:

• are an EU citizen
• hold a permanent residence permit
• are studying as a recognized refugee
• have already worked in Germany for a certain period of time

Your residence status is decisive. Therefore, you should seek advice early from the student services organization or the Office for Educational Support.

Applying for BAföG: Initial Application or Renewal?

If you have never received BAföG before and are applying for the first time, you submit an initial application. After your approval period ends, you must submit a renewal application.

Important: You should submit your application as early as possible, as BAföG is only paid starting from the month in which the application was submitted. If documents are still missing, you can initially submit an informal application and provide the documents later.

Submitting Your BAföG Application Step by Step

1. Find the Responsible BAföG Office

Your BAföG application must be submitted to the responsible Office for Educational Support, usually via your university’s student services organization. You can submit your application by post or online via BAföG digital.

The online assistant helps you complete the forms and provides guidance through help texts.

2. Required Forms for the BAföG Application

The most important forms are:

• Form 01: Main application (personal data, assets, parents’ income)
• Form 02: Certificate pursuant to § 9 BAföG (enrollment certificate)
• Form 03: Income declaration (parents’ income from the previous calendar year)
• Additional forms depending on your situation

Be careful when completing the forms. Bank statements, enrollment certificates, and other documents may need to be attached.

3. Proof of Academic Performance for Your BAföG Application (§ 48 BAföG)

From the 5th semester onwards, you must submit a certificate pursuant to § 48 BAföG (Form 05). This confirms that you are properly pursuing your studies.

Without this certificate, your eligibility may lapse. Plan ahead, especially during exam periods.

4. Online or Postal Submission?

You can submit your application digitally or by post. Online submission saves time and simplifies the process.

What matters most is submitting your application on time.

Special Cases: Studying Abroad, Interruption, Advance Payments

If you plan to study abroad, you must submit a separate application. Special deadlines apply – at least 6 months before departure.

If you experience financial difficulties, you may apply for advance payments. If you interrupt your studies, contact the Office for Educational Support early.

What Happens After the BAföG Approval Period?

The approval period usually lasts 12 months. After that, you must submit a new application. Many students forget this and suddenly find themselves without funding.

Make sure to submit your renewal application on time.

Alternatives to BAföG: Scholarships and Student Loans

If you are not eligible for BAföG or it is not sufficient, alternatives include scholarships, student loans, part-time jobs, and funding for studying abroad.

BAföG is often the first step but not the only option for financing your studies.

Applying for BAföG may seem complicated, but with the right structure it is manageable.

• Submit your application early
• Use BAföG digital
• Plan for your proof of academic performance