Health insurance is mandatory for all students in Germany. Whether you are starting a bachelor’s or master’s degree, you must choose between public (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) and private (private Krankenversicherung) plans. This guide explains the differences, compares popular providers like TK, AOK, and Barmer, and helps you understand which option fits your situation.
Why Health Insurance Is Mandatory
Germany’s healthcare system requires 100% coverage. Without valid insurance, you cannot:
• enroll at university
• receive your residence permit
• work a student job
• get medical treatment affordably
All students must show proof of health insurance at immatriculation and visa appointments.
Public vs Private Health Insurance
Germany offers two types of health insurance for students:
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A) Public Health Insurance (GKV)
Providers include:
• TK (Techniker Krankenkasse)
• AOK
• Barmer
• DAK
• IKK
Pros:
• fixed low monthly price
• covers most medical needs
• easy to use
• accepted everywhere
• simple reimbursement
• strong for long-term stays
Cons:
• limited flexibility
• cannot downgrade once you switch to private
• dental coverage is basic
• no premium refunds
Student price: ~€120/month (fixed nationwide)
⸻
B) Private Health Insurance (PKV)
Common among students from:
• language schools
• Studienkolleg
• short programs
• students over age limit
Pros:
• cheaper for some students (as low as €35–70/month)
• flexible tariffs
• better coverage for dental & vision in some plans
Cons:
• reimbursement system (you pay first)
• prices increase with age
• not accepted for all visa types
• difficult to return to public insurance
• not recommended for long-term study
Important:
Most universities require public insurance for degree programs.
TK vs AOK vs Barmer (Student Comparison)
Below is a simple breakdown of what matters to international students.
⸻
1) TK – Techniker Krankenkasse
Most popular among international students
Why students choose TK:
• best English support
• fast processing
• good digital app
• strong nationwide coverage
• easy reimbursement
Best for:
→ international students who want smooth service in English.
⸻
2) AOK
Large regional provider
Strengths:
• strong physical presence
• helpful for local appointments
• good for students who prefer face-to-face support
Things to note:
• services vary by region
• English support depends on office location
Best for:
→ students who prefer local branch visits over digital.
⸻
3) Barmer
Similar to TK in structure
Strengths:
• good digital services
• fast customer support
• popular among students in big cities
Best for:
→ students who want a modern, flexible insurer.
⸻
Which Insurance Should You Choose?
Choose Public Insurance If:
• you are a bachelor or master student
• you’re under 30 years old
• you want the simplest and safest option
• you want English support & easy reimbursements
• you plan to stay in Germany long-term
Best choice for most students: TK or Barmer
⸻
Choose Private Insurance If:
• you are in a language course or Studienkolleg
• you are older than 30
• you only stay short-term
• your university allows private coverage
But:
Switching back to public insurance later can be very difficult.
Which Insurance Should You Choose?
Choose Public Insurance If:
• you are a bachelor or master student
• you’re under 30 years old
• you want the simplest and safest option
• you want English support & easy reimbursements
• you plan to stay in Germany long-term
Best choice for most students: TK or Barmer
⸻
Choose Private Insurance If:
• you are in a language course or Studienkolleg
• you are older than 30
• you only stay short-term
• your university allows private coverage
But:
Switching back to public insurance later can be very difficult.
How to Sign Up for Health Insurance
Step 1: Choose a provider
(TK, AOK, or Barmer recommended)
Step 2: Apply online
Fill out the form → receive confirmation within 1–3 days.
Step 3: Upload your university admission letter
The insurer sends electronic confirmation (M10 form) directly to your university.
Step 4: Receive your insurance certificate
Use this for:
• enrollment
• student visa
• work contracts
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1) Choosing private insurance without understanding long-term consequences
Returning to public insurance later can be very difficult or impossible.
2) Buying extremely cheap private plans
Many €35 plans offer very limited coverage and are rejected during visa renewal.
3) Not understanding dental rules
Public insurance only covers basic dental treatments.
4) Thinking insurance automatically covers everything
You still need to pay for:
• some medications
• special treatments
• private doctor services
5) Not registering with a GP (Hausarzt)
This makes accessing the system harder.
Summary
Germany requires all students to have health insurance, and choosing the right plan is essential. For most degree students:
• public insurance (especially TK or Barmer) is the safest and most convenient
• private insurance is suitable only for specific cases (language school, short-term study)
Once insured, you can complete enrollment, get your visa, and access Germany’s excellent healthcare system smoothly.