Can I get BAföG for a master's as a foreign national?

BAföG is monthly financial support from the state for students. Half is a grant and half an interest-free loan, and repayment is capped. In 2026 the maximum is €992 a month. Whether foreign nationals can get it depends on their residence permit:

• Eligible: People with a permanent residence permit (Niederlassungserlaubnis or Daueraufenthalt-EU). Spouses or children of someone with a permanent permit, living here on a family reunification permit. People with some humanitarian residence permits.
• Eligible after 15 months: Spouses or children of someone with a temporary permit, living here on a family reunification permit, and some other permit types, if they've lived legally in Germany without interruption for at least 15 months.
• Not eligible: People on a student permit (§ 16b). People on a work permit (for example the EU Blue Card) are usually not on the list either.

Other requirements: You must start your master's before turning 45. The master's must build on your bachelor's. Having done your bachelor's abroad doesn't automatically rule out BAföG; the BAföG office assesses each case. Support is calculated based on your and your parents' (or spouse's) income.

How to apply: Apply to the BAföG office of the Studierendenwerk responsible for your university, or online. Payments start from the month you apply, so apply early without waiting for your enrolment to be finalised.

If you're unsure: Take your residence permit to the Studierendenwerk's BAföG advice service; it's free.