Health Insurance for 30+ Students in Germany: What You Need to Know



There are really notable benefits for gaining an education in Germany - you can get a world-class education, pay fewer or no tuition fees in state universities. 

And also experience the cultural life of a modern and colorful society.

And as a student under 30 years of age, one of the obstacles you will likely face is the question of health insurance, which can really be baffling for many people.

Health insurance in Germany is obligatory for all residents as well as students. However, reaching 30 years of age as a student brings a major shift in your life regarding eligibility, health insurance options, and costs. 

Even if you are a foreign student or someone who has just recently gotten on the academic track to pursue further studies, this guide will help you find out what the system works and, most importantly, what you can do to stay covered while not going bankrupt at the same time.

1. Why Age 30 Is a Health Insurance Turning Point

According to German law, students that are either under the age of 30 or in their first 14 semesters of study are eligible for public student health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung – GKV). 

This student plan is very affordable with the government heavily subsidizing it, giving the user full access to healthcare just for around €120 per month.

Upon your 30th birthday or when you have completed your 14th semester in university, you will no longer receive the discounted student rate. The next decision is yours:

  • You may either stick to the optional public health insurance, for a subscription that can be pricey (about €200-€250 per month).
  • Or you can choose the private health insurance (private Krankenversicherung – PKV), that usually is a cheaper option but with a few pitfalls in exchange.

2. Your Options as a 30+ Student

The first thing we should consider is your main alternatives:


A. Voluntary Public Health Insurance

You might be able to still be a member of your public insurer (e.g., TK, AOK, DAK) via a voluntary scheme, however, you must now pay the regular adult fee.

Pros:

  • Complete coverage
  • Payment made directly (no requirement to have the money ready before the doctor's visits)
  • Insurance for pre-existing diseases
  • It is more practical to return to public system provided there is any change in your status

Cons:

  • A good deal higher monthly premiums
  • Student discount is no longer available


B. Private Health Insurance

Private health insurance for students who are over 30 is a more affordable option for a limited time, at least in this context

Some of the popular ones are:

  • MAWISTA
  • Care Concept
  • EDUCARE24 (Dr-Walter)
  • HanseMerkur

Student-specific private health insurance from these companies starts as low as €30–€80 per month, depending on your coverage level and personal health conditions.

Pros:

  • Lower monthly premiums
  • Customized plans for students
  • English-speaking customer service (with some providers)
  • Often, you stand a better chance of qualifying if you are in good health

Cons:

  • The patient must generally make the payment in advance and then get a refund
  • Pre-existing diseases are exempt from some plans
  • Later, you will find it hard to change back to public insurance.
  • Some areas have limited coverage, e.g., they only have dental and mental health services.


C. Exemptions or Foreign Insurance

If the students are:

  • Citizens of the EU/EEA who have the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card)
  • Already having a valid international insurance plan
  • Those individuals who are taking a language course or a preparatory program (those without the right to public insurance)

There are some situations that students may use foreign insurance or apply for an exemption. However, not all universities or immigration offices

are automatically to accept foreign plans. It is always important to check that immigration or university officers officially recognize your plan in Germany.

3. Things to Have in Mind When Choosing

There are some steps you should follow before deciding on a health insurance plan:

FactorPublic InsurancePrivate InsuranceMonthly Cost~€200–€250€30–€100Coverage of Pre-existing ConditionsYesIn some cases, noDoctor AccessUniversalAccessible only to a few without a feeReimbursementDirect billingPay first, the company will then reimburseDental/Mental HealthIncludedAvailability limitedLong-Term ViabilityHighIf you make long-term reservations

Tip: If you plan to work in Germany after your studies, the public insurance system might be the right option for you when sharing the public insurance cost. You can always get back to (or stay in) the public system if your employer contributes future costs.

4. How to Apply

For Public Health Insurance (Voluntary):

  • Get in touch with your public insurer and opt for the voluntary continuation.
  • Prove your enrollment and residence.
  • Get a response and a health card, which you can use for university/visa purposes.

For Private Health Insurance:

  • Check the offers from different health insurance providers online (e.g., by consulting CHECK24 and the websites of different providers).
  • Directly send your application to an insurer.
  • Hand all the necessary personal information, student information, and passport copy to get enrolled in the university.
  • Get the confirmation and digital insurance policy.


5. Visa and Enrollment Considerations

You will be asked to present evidence of health insurance that is valid in order to:

  • Register at a university in Germany
  • Apply for a student visa or residence permit

Most immigration offices and universities accept both public and recognized private providers. Choose the best deal for you and your family, but ensure that the chosen plan is legally compliant in Germany (look for BaFin-approved plans).

6. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Postponing the arrangement of insurance to the last moment: This might get you delayed with your enrollment or visa application.
  • Opting for the cheapest plan without sense: Economical plans could be connected with inadequate coverage or unspecified restrictions.
  • Trust the fallacy that you can at any time switch back to public insurance: Once you are on a private insurance plan, the issue of switching back becomes complicated, especially if you are funding yourself or you are freelancing.

7. Conclusion

Transitioning from 29 to 30 as a student in Germany is not only about the education—but the policies of your health insurance are also changing with it.

Remaining covered with public insurance on a voluntary basis because of the possibility you very well have the means to pay for it and you are a stable person might be the best choice. However, in the case of you being the frugal and healthy sort, student health insurance in the private sector is your cost-saving option.

Do not neglect the future consequences, especially if you want to live in Germanyafter finishing your studies. Irrespective of your decision, it's advisable to look for insurance well in advance to avoid any difficulties during the changeover.

 

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