In recent years, the cost of living for students in Germany has increased dramatically. Many students have to keep their heads above water with a part-time job and still struggle with money worries. The Corona pandemic has made the situation worse and many students are desperate for solutions.
Some students report that they have had to postpone their studies for a year because they could not afford the cost of living. Students from poorer families who cannot rely on financial support from parents or relatives are particularly affected.
But the problem does not only affect those who are already enrolled in their studies. Many students from poorer families choose not to go to college because of the high cost, and may miss out on the opportunity for a career.
Politicians have recognized the problem and promise solutions, but so far these have only been implemented half-heartedly. It remains to be seen whether the cost-of-living crisis for students in Germany will soon improve.
Struggling with the costs of studying
The current financial situation of students is a major issue. Many of them struggle to pay for their studies and have to help themselves out with part-time jobs or loans. The rising cost of living is increasingly putting a strain on student life, so the decision to study is often fraught with financial risk. It becomes especially difficult for students who are unable to earn additional income through part-time jobs due to family responsibilities or illnesses.
Unfortunately, studying itself is often an expensive affair. Even though tuition fees have been abolished in Germany, students still have to pay for books, equipment, rent and meals. Since many students are pressed for time, part-time jobs can often only be found, and in the best case, close to their university location. College students, therefore, often have to spend the time to start working 20 or more hours a week.
Even though universities make efforts to help students financially by offering scholarships or making students aware of jobs, it is still difficult for many to stay afloat. Costs can be especially high for international or expatriate students, as they are often unable to obtain scholarships and government assistance is kept to a minimum. Therefore, it is important that policymakers and universities continue to work to improve the financial situation of students and ensure that studying remains accessible for all.
Cost of living crisis hits students hard
The cost-of-living crisis is impacting many students in Germany and is having a serious impact on their lives. Many students have to postpone or even drop out of their studies because they can no longer afford the rising cost of rent and living expenses.
Housing prices have risen dramatically in recent years and demand for affordable housing far exceeds supply. Many students either have to live in tiny one-bedroom apartments or live in expensive shared rooms.
But it’s not just housing costs that have risen; the cost of books, transportation and food has also increased. Many students have to keep their heads above water with part-time jobs and have little time to focus on their studies.
- The cost of living crisis is creating an imbalance in society.
- Poor students are getting poorer and rich students are getting richer.
- It’s high time the government took action to ease the financial burden on students.
Postponing study plans due to financial difficulties
Deferring plans of study is a difficult decision for many students, but often necessary to solve financial problems. The cost of living crisis and rising tuition costs are putting pressure on many young people.
Some students have to find a job to cope with rising costs or get support from family and friends. Others choose to postpone their plans altogether and save money for a year.
It is important to emphasize that there is no shame in postponing study plans. Many successful people have started their careers later in life after they could financially afford it.
- It can be difficult to stay motivated during this time. It is therefore advisable to set goals such as learning a new skill or participating in an internship.
- Students should also consider taking online courses to continue their education while saving money.
- It is also important to consider what financial aid is available, such as scholarships and loans, to continue education once financial difficulties are resolved.
Putting off study plans can be a difficult step, but it is often necessary to achieve financial stability and set the stage for a successful and rewarding career.
Work opportunities for students
The rising cost of living presents financial challenges for many students. To manage this, many look for ways to earn money while studying.
A popular way to earn money as a student is to work a part-time job. Many companies offer flexible work schedules that allow students to balance their studies and work. Earning money in a part-time job can also significantly improve your financial situation.
Other ways to earn money as a student include tutoring or working as a tutor. If one is particularly good at a certain subject, they can offer tutoring sessions to help other students improve their knowledge. Working as a tutor in a school or tutoring institute is also an option.
- Part-time jobs
- Tutoring
- Tutor
Students can also take a job as a student worker or intern. In doing so, they gain work experience and can finance their studies at the same time. There are also opportunities to work as a freelancer. Here students can offer services such as typing or translations and thus build their own business.
To find job opportunities as a student, you should check with the job agency for your own degree program or the student union. The Internet also offers numerous opportunities to find job offers.
Financing tuition through public funds
With the cost of living remaining high and tuition skyrocketing, many students are finding it difficult to finance their education. Public funding for tuition can therefore be a welcome source of support.
Some countries already have proven models for financing tuition from public funds. These include, for example, educational loans, scholarships and interest-free loans.
Another option is to set up foundations specifically to support students. These endowments can be funded by either government agencies or private organizations and offer students the opportunity to receive financial assistance to cover their tuition, as well as living and other expenses.
- Education loans
- Scholarship
- Interest-free loans
- Foundations
Public funding for tuition can take the pressure off students and allow them to focus on their education rather than on funding issues.
Studying should be possible for everyone, regardless of financial backgrounds. Public funding of student fees is an important step in this direction.