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STUDENT FINANCING UNDER THE FEDERAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING ASSISTANCE ACT

BAföG

What is BAföG?

The aim of the Federal Education and Trainings Assistance Act (BAföG) is to give all young people the opportunity to complete training or a course of study that suits their skills and interests, regardless of their social and economic situation. If students or their parents cannot cover the costs of studying themselves, they may be entitled to BAföG funding. One half of BAföG is awarded as a grant and the other half as an interest-free loan.

stacked euro coins © Jürgen Huhn​/​TU Dortmund

Where can I apply for BAföG?

The Student Finance Office (Amt für Ausbildungsförderung) of the Studierendenwerk Dortmund is responsible for students at TU Dortmund University. On the website of the Studierendenwerk, there is further information as well as contact persons who can help with queries about applying for funding. Information on entitlement to funding as well as the nature and amount of funding is also available there.

A hand holding a pen fills out a survey questionnaire. © Pixabay

BAföG without a German passport?

Citizens of the European Union, migrants and refugees living in Germany can also receive BAföG as financial support during their studies or schooling.

As a basic rule, if foreigners have a perspective of staying in Germany and are socially integrated, they are considered eligible for support. These are, for example, persons with a permanent right of residence under the Freedom of Movement Act/EU, a permit for permanent residence-EU or a settlement permit.

On a blue suitcase is a passport. © Pixabay

Refugees can apply for BAföG as recognized persons entitled to asylum, recognized refugees according to the Geneva Refugee Convention and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection.

More information (in German) can be found on the website of the Ministry of Education and Research.