Study reveals high poverty levels among German university students, especially those living alone
A new analysis shows that a large share of German students live below the poverty line, with single households most affected.
An evaluation by the Paritätischer Gesamtverband finds that a substantial proportion of German university students fall under the poverty threshold, with the highest incidence among those living alone. Students in shared apartments also experience significant poverty, whereas those residing with employed partners show a lower incidence. The study, which uses data from the Statistisches Bundesamt, highlights housing expenses as a key factor, noting that single students have a median monthly budget of 900 euros, of which about half is spent on rent.
Students in shared flats have a higher median income but still allocate a large share to housing, leaving little disposable cash. Officials and experts criticize the recent Bafög reform as insufficient and call for dynamic adjustments to housing allowances.
Why it matters
Student poverty can hinder academic success and widen social inequality in Germany.
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