For many, studying is an exciting but also demanding phase of life that raises many questions. These are the focus of the Student Survey conducted every four years by the German Centre for Higher Education Research and Science Studies (DZHW).
How do students in Germany really live? What concerns, wishes, and challenges shape everyday student life? And how can studying be better adapted to the needs of all students?
The Student Survey 2025 seeks answers to these questions – based on real voices that are selected at random. At universities in Brandenburg, the survey starts on June 12 (with one exception: at FH Potsdam, it already began on June 3). Participation is anonymous and organized via the university email address. About one third of students will receive an invitation with a personal access code that ensures one-time participation. Completing the questionnaire takes about 30 minutes and can be paused and resumed at any time.
This is the only nationwide representative study that provides a detailed and reliable picture of students’ lives, studies, and their social and economic situation. But it’s about more than just dry statistics: it’s about the daily lives of students who often have to work alongside their studies just to get by. About students with children who juggle academics and family life. About people with disabilities who face additional challenges.
It’s also about living conditions – whether in a dorm, shared flat, or alone – and the challenges students have to overcome in their housing situation.
The results provide an essential basis for assessing and improving study conditions in Germany. Universities, student services organizations, and policymakers gain important insights to create better conditions and services for students. The nationwide results will be published in spring 2027 in a student social report. Every voice counts, because change is only possible if students share their experiences.
More information at: https://www.die-studierendenbefragung.de/en/the-student-survey