Anyone who has submitted a BAföG application often waits anxiously for a response. During this time, little is visible from the outside, but a lot is happening behind the scenes.
The overview shows how the processing procedure works and why it sometimes takes time for the approval notice to arrive in your mailbox.
1. Receipt and review of the application
After receipt, each BAföG application is recorded and first checked for completeness.
2. Submitting missing documents
If any documents are missing (which is often the case), a notification will be sent by mail (even if the application was submitted via BAföG Digital) with a request to submit the documents. Returning the proof quickly will shorten the processing time.
For applications submitted via BAföG Digital, missing documents can be conveniently submitted using the upload function provided there. If the application is received by mail or via the mailbox, the documents must be sent by post.
3. Processing the application
Once the application is complete, the actual processing begins.
- Processing time: If the documents are complete, the processing time is usually around 6 to 8 weeks. However, a particularly large number of applications are received at the start of the semester, which means that the processing time may be longer in some cases.
- Dual control principle: Each application is checked by two employees in accordance with the dual control principle.
- No updates: Interim reports on the current status are not sent out, as this would tie up additional resources and delay processing.
4. BAföG notification in the mailbox
Once all the documents have been checked, a written BAföG notification will be sent by mail.
The notification contains information on, among other things
- whether and to what extent funding will be granted
- how much the parents have to contribute to living expenses
- the period for which the approval is valid.
Important: Only the written BAföG notification is binding.
Displays or interim results in digital systems (e.g., BAföG Digital) are not legally binding.
5. Payment of funding
Once the approval notice has been issued, payment of the funding amounts begins.
- Payments are usually made at the end of one month for the following month.
If the decision is negative, the rejection notice may still be relevant: under certain circumstances, it can be used to apply for other social benefits, such as housing allowance.
6. Submit follow-up application in good time
BAföG is always granted for a specific approval period, usually for one year. To avoid gaps in funding, the follow-up application should be submitted at least two months before the end of the approval period - preferably via BAföG Digital.
Support and advice
If you have any questions about the application, documents, or notification, the BAföG counselling is available during telephone and in-person office hours.