Health Insurance for International Students in Germany (2026-2027 Guide)

What are the options?

The 2026 student rate at TK (from TK's official 2026 contribution sheet):

Students under 23 pay a lower care insurance amount. Other public insurers charge a slightly different additional contribution, so the total changes by a few euros. Check the insurer's current page.

Who must take public student insurance?

Students enrolled at a German university are usually compulsorily insured in the public system until about age 30, with some extensions for certain reasons. If that applies to you, you have two choices:

1. Public student insurance, the normal choice.
2. Exemption. You can apply to a public insurer to be exempted within 3 months of the start of compulsory insurance, and then use private insurance. The exemption usually lasts for your whole time as a student, so you cannot switch back to public insurance until your studies end.

Not covered by the student tariff: Studienkolleg students, language-course students and students over the age limit. They usually need private insurance or voluntary public insurance. Ask the insurer before you arrive.

What does public insurance cover?

• Doctors: general practitioners and specialists, with your insurance card
• Hospital: inpatient treatment, surgery and emergencies
• Medicines: prescription medicines, with a co-payment of €5 to €10 per item
• Dental: check-ups and basic treatment
• Mental health: psychotherapy and psychiatric care
• Vaccinations: recommended vaccinations
• Pregnancy and maternity care
• Family: a spouse or children with no or low income can be insured free through family insurance

When and how should I apply?

For the visa, check the German missions' checklist for the insurance they accept until your public cover begins.

Why is travel insurance not enough?

Many students buy an "international student insurance" policy in India and assume it covers their studies. For enrolment it does not. Universities need a confirmation from a German public insurer, either that you are insured or that you are exempted. Travel policies also often have cover limits and require you to pay first and claim back later.

The correct approach: travel insurance only for the visa and the weeks before your public cover starts. Then public student insurance for your studies.

How much does it cost over a full degree?

At the 2026 TK rate of €146.29 a month (age 23 or older, no children):

Rates usually rise a little each year, so budget slightly above these figures. Insurance is paid on top of the €11,904 blocked-account amount, so plan for it in your budget. See our blocked account guide.

What documents do I need?

What mistakes should I avoid?

• Relying on travel insurance for enrolment. It will not be accepted.
• Applying late. Apply after admission, before you fly, so the confirmation is ready for enrolment.
• Opting out to save money. The exemption usually locks you out of public insurance for your whole studies.
• Paying twice. End your travel insurance once public cover starts.
• Forgetting the breaks. Public insurance runs every month, including semester breaks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is student health insurance in Germany in 2026?

At TK, €110.38 a month for health insurance plus €35.91 for long-term care if you are 23 or older without children, a total of €146.29. Students under 23 pay a little less. Other public insurers differ by a few euros.

Is health insurance mandatory for students in Germany?

Yes. You need proof of health insurance for the visa, for enrolment at the university and for your residence permit.

Can I use private health insurance as a student?

Yes, if you are exempted from compulsory public insurance, or if you are not eligible for it (for example over 30 or in a Studienkolleg). An exemption usually lasts for your whole studies.

Can I apply for German student insurance from India?

Yes. Public insurers such as TK accept online applications from abroad once you have your admission letter.

Does my Indian travel insurance work for enrolment?

No. Universities need a confirmation from a German public insurer that you are insured or exempted. Travel insurance only covers the visa and the first weeks.

Can my spouse be covered?

With public insurance, a spouse or children with no or low income can usually be insured free through family insurance.

Sources

• TK: Contributions for students and TK's 2026 contribution sheet
• German Missions in India: Student visa checklist

Planning your Master's in Germany?

Use the free German University Shortlister to find Safe, Target and Ambitious public universities for your CGPA.