Costs of studying
How much will I need?
It is difficult to provide an answer to the question of what other costs can arise in connection with studying at university. The life circumstances and needs of each individual are too varied.
Fixed costs each semester
FAU does not have tuition fees. However, all students must pay a semester fee that must be transferred in order to remain enrolled at FAU for the following semester. For summer semester 2023, the semester fee comprised a contribution for Student Services and a general contribution towards the cost of the semester ticket. For summer semester 2023: 144 euros.
However, for winter semester 2023/24, the semester fee for re-registration will comprise the contribution for Student Services of 67 euros only as the semester ticket will cease to exist due to the introduction of the “Deutschlandticket”.
Exceptions: Fees for degree programs for professional development and degree programs for working professionals, fees for guest student programs
General costs
General guidelines on the average [monthly] outgoings that can be expected are provided by the results of the 21st social survey undertaken by Deutschen Studentenwerk in 2016:
According to this study, students in former West Germany who no longer live with their parents have an average amount of 930 euros per month at their disposal. Monthly expenditures for personal lifestyle, however, vary a lot. The study shows that approximately 25% of the students asked have less than 700 euros while 7% have more than 1300 euros per month. For former West Germany, the study revealed the following details on average expenditure:
Rent, including ancillary costs (in Erlangen, Nuremberg and surrounding areas)* | 325/332 euros* |
Food | 168 euros |
Clothing | 42 euros |
Travel costs (public transport and/or car) | 94 euros |
Study materials (depending on subject) | 20 euros |
Health insurance, doctors, medicine | 80 euros |
Telecommunications | 31 euros |
Leisure, culture, sports | 61 euros |
*The above amounts are average prices and serve only as a guide. Costs on the private housing market are often higher, depending on the size and location of the accommodation.
Where does the money come from?
86% of all students are supported by their parents. Students’ own income comes in second (61%) and BAföG third (25%).