The parliamentary groups of CDU/CSU and SPD have reached a basic agreement on the 30th BAföG amendment. The planned changes aim to gradually increase funding levels and simplify the application process. The draft legislation is scheduled to be introduced to the Federal Cabinet at the end of July 2026.
One of the most important changes concerns the housing allowance. This is set to increase from the current 380 euros to 440 euros. However, the increase will not take effect until the summer semester of 2027. The BAföG basic allowance will also be increased in two steps to reach the level of basic social security. The funding rate will rise to 503 euros from the winter semester 2027/28 onwards. A further increase to 563 euros is planned for the summer semester of 2029. In addition, income allowances are set to increase automatically by 1.5 percent each year in the future. This is intended to ensure that changes in income levels are taken into account more regularly.
Changes are also planned for the application process: in the future, BAföG applications will only be able to be submitted via the nationwide BAföG Digital portal. Furthermore, the performance record currently required from the fifth semester onwards is to be abolished. The aim is to simplify the funding process and reduce bureaucratic barriers for students.
Criticism of the reform
While the announced changes are generally welcomed, they have also drawn criticism. In particular, the delayed timing of the increases has been questioned. Matthias Anbuhl, chair of the board of the Deutsches Studierendenwerk, points out the challenges:
“Current students are the ones who lose out. They will have to manage for another semester with insufficient support of 380 euros in a housing market that demands significantly higher average rents from them. An average room in a shared flat already costs 512 euros nationwide.”
In view of rising rents and living costs, faster and more comprehensive improvements are considered necessary in order to effectively relieve the financial burden on students.
Petition for a future-proof BAföG
Alongside the reform, a nationwide petition is calling for a needs-based and future-proof BAföG system. Among other things, it calls for faster adjustments to funding rates and improved financial security for students in general. Sign the BAföG petition here.
