For many students from all over the world, Germany is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after countries due to its top-notch education.
Rich cultural diversity, and also low priced higher education especially at state universities. Still, another vital aspect, which is health insurance, needs to be tackled by everyone before their academic program begins.
For studentsin Germany, sickness funds are obligatory. Generally, the public (statutory) health insurance scheme is preferred and most common among students, while private health insurance can be a feasible and sometimes more suitable option, depending on one's circumstances.
The present guide is aimed to be the ultimate
resource on what private health insurance options are for students in Germany,
so that a student can make a well-founded decision.
1. Why Health Insurance Is Mandatory in Germany
Two healthinsurance systems are established in Germany: the public one (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung)
and the private one (private Krankenversicherung). No matter whether you are a
German citizen or an international student, you will have to be insured to
cover the following issues:
- Enrollment
in higher educational institution
- Receiving
a student visa or residence permit
- Using
healthcare services
If you are
under the age of 30 or have not completed your 14th semester, normally you have
to take out a statutory health insurance policy. However, there can be certain
situations where you may be allowed to have private health insurance or where
it is even more favorable.
2. Who Can Choose Private Health Insurance?
Nevertheless,
private health insurance is not the first choice for every student and only a
few students belong to the group of potential candidates. In the following
situations, students can be eligible for the private health insurance:
- Language
course students or preparatory course (Studienkolleg) students: These
groups of students are not able to use public insurance and are required
to buy private insurance.
- Students
over 30 or in their 15th semester: You are no more eligible for student
public insurance and are therefore allowed to buy private insurance.
- PhD
students and postgraduates: Depending on being employed or working as a
researcher, they can also be titled to private insurance.
- EU
students with valid EHIC: A few students can decide to pay for a private
insurance plan to have broader protection.
3. Pros and Cons of Private Health Insurance for Students
Pros:
- Students
can get insurance at lower monthly premiums from some private insurers
i.e. for not more than 30 euros per month.
- Personal
health needs can often be the basis of the cover of your choice.
- Reduction
of waiting times: It happens that the private patients will sometimes get
faster appointments and quicker access to specialists.
- Solutions
in English: In most cases, private insurers make sure international
students are able to communicate their inquiries in their native languages
due to their multilingual support.
Cons:
- Compatibility
is minimal: Not all private insurers are accepted by all doctors and
hospitals.
- How
it works: It is common that you have to pay the costs online and receive
back your money via the insurance company later.
- Not
always the best solution in the long run: The switch from private to
public insurance can be problematic and sometimes costly.
- Exceptions: A big number of less expensive policies will exclude certain things such as pre-existing conditions, dental care, and mental health services.
4. What to Look For in a Private Health Insurance Plan
Selecting the
most suitable plan can be a head-scratching job. Here are some helpful factors:
- The
amount of money one has to pay at the end of every month
- Outpatient
and inpatient treatments included in the coverage
- Provision
for emergency situations and transportation back to the home country
- ...
- Waiting
periods
- Dental
and mental health coverage
- English
as a spoken language skill plus records that are in English
- Approved
and recognized by the authorities and universities in Germany
5. Top Providers for Private Student Health Insurance
Several
insurance companies are famous for giving private insurance options that suit
international students best:
- MAWISTA Student: Made for language and exchange students. It is cheap and widely
accepted.
- Care
Concept: It has different coverage levels and the participant can choose
the one that best fits their needs all around the world.
- HanseMerkur:
The company's strength lies in the broad coverage and competitive rates
that it offers, and that is mainly why it is so popular.
- Dr-Walter:
EDUCARE24 is a plan that Dr-Walter has offered and it has been a big hit
among students who come to the international university.
- AXA
and Allianz: Insurance companies provide users with comprehensive
international plans and have extended global networks.
Additionally,
it is necessary to ensure that the insurance company you opt for is recognized
by German immigration and universities.
6. How to Apply for Private Health Insurance
Typically,
the application process is quite simple:
- Take
advantage of comparison tools or insurer websites to compare the plans.
- Submit
an application with your personal details, a copy of the passport, and
proof of student status.
- Get a
confirmation reply in a few days.
- Hand
in the insurance certificate to your university and immigration office.
Pro tip: Do
your application before you get to Germany if you want to avoid delays in
enrolling in university or obtaining a visa.
7. Public vs Private: Which Is Right for You?
Feature Public
Insurance Private Insurance Monthly Premium~€120€30-€100 (varies)CoverageBroad,
standard Varies by plan Doctor Access Universal Some limitations Payment Direct
billing Pay first, refund EligibilityAge < 30, full-time students More flexible
for older or prep students
It is
generally the case that public insurance is the safer and more stable choice if
you are under 30 years old and still in the position to get it. But if you are
on a budget or in Germany for a short period only (e.g. attending a language
course), then you should consider the private insurance as it may be
economically more efficient.
8. Last Words
- Always
ensure that the policy is valid with your university and the German visa authorities.
- Application
should be done without waiting for the day of your arrival to Germany to
avoid getting stuck in long lines.
- It is
necessary to be open to the idea of changing policies if your particulars
change (for example, you are turning 30 or you are beginning a degree
program).
Conclusion
Healthinsurance is a crucial part of your study journey in Germany. From the private health insurance, students can get both the advantages of flexibility and affordability as it is the best option for them when they don't fit into the public insurance eligibility.
Knowing the distinctions, benefits, and
prerequisites enables you to be well-informed and, therefore, select the most
suitable plan that will aid in your health goals and academic success.
When you're in Germany for one semester or your entire period of study, getting the correct health insurance policy guarantees peace of mind and accordance with the local rules.