Even though most public universities in Germany do not charge tuition, all students must pay a mandatory semester fee (Semesterbeitrag). This fee is essential for enrollment and must be paid every semester. It covers transportation, student union services, and administrative costs. This guide explains what’s included, how much it costs, and how prices vary across universities and states.
What Is the Semester Fee?
The semester fee is a mandatory contribution that supports student services and public transportation.
It is not tuition and applies to all students—German and international alike.
The fee must be paid before each semester begins to complete your enrollment.
What the Semester Fee Typically Includes
Although fees vary by university, they usually consist of three main components:
1) Public Transportation Ticket (Semester Ticket)
This is the largest part of the fee.
It covers:
• buses
• trams
• regional trains (RB, RE)
• local networks within the state or region
Some universities include full state coverage; others include only the city.
2) Student Union Fee (AStA / Studierendenwerk)
Funds services such as:
• student cafeterias (Mensa)
• housing advisory
• legal advice
• psychological counseling
• cultural programs
• discounts and events
3) Administrative Fee
Covers:
• enrollment
• exam administration
• printing student ID cards
• IT services
• general university operations
How Much Does the Semester Fee Cost?
Typical range:
€150 – €350 per semester
Examples:
• Berlin: €235–€320
• Munich: ~€150–€170 (transport depends on MVV rules)
• Hamburg: ~€330
• North Rhine–Westphalia (NRW): €250–€320
• Baden-Württemberg: €170–€200
• Saxony: €250–€300
Differences come from transportation agreements and student union policies.
Why Some Universities Are More Expensive
1) Transportation Coverage
Universities with full statewide coverage → more expensive
Universities with city-only tickets → cheaper
2) Local Transport Contract Changes
Ticket prices often rise each year due to transport company negotiations.
3) Additional Services
Some universities add optional but helpful services:
• cultural ticket (Kulturticket)
• sports program fees
• semester pass for museums or theaters
Payment Deadlines (Important!)
You must pay the semester fee to:
• remain enrolled
• register for exams
• keep your student ID valid
• renew your transportation ticket
Missing deadlines can lead to:
• late fees
• temporary loss of enrollment
• complications with health insurance or visa status
Always check:
• your university email
• the student portal
• reminder letters or notices
Refunds and Special Cases
In some situations, students may request a partial or full refund:
• Semester Ticket not needed (e.g., disability, long-term illness)
• study leave (Urlaubssemester)
• participation in mobility programs (Erasmus, exchange semester)
• double enrollment at two universities
Refund rules depend on the institution and require written application.
Can You Avoid the Semester Fee?
No.
Regardless of nationality or program, you must pay the fee every semester—unless you qualify for very rare exceptions (e.g., leave of absence).
It is part of Germany’s university funding model and unrelated to tuition fees.
Summary
The semester fee in Germany is a mandatory contribution that supports transportation, student services, and administrative operations. Costs vary but generally range from €150 to €350 per semester. By understanding what the fee includes and keeping track of deadlines, you can budget effectively and avoid unnecessary stress.
Key points:
• Semester fee ≠ tuition
• covers transportation, student union, administration
• amount varies by city and state
• essential for enrollment and student status