Costs and Planning
Scholarships and Financing
Financing starts with an honest budget. Scholarships, funding, installment payments and priorities can help, but are no substitute for realistic cost planning.
Why plan financing in good time?
A year abroad is a big investment in your future. The sooner you deal with the costs, the more options you have available. Scholarships and grants often have application deadlines and require documents such as letters of motivation and certificates. Early planning makes it easier to find the right financing strategy.
Scholarships & funding programs
There are numerous scholarships for student exchanges and high school programs. Some are awarded by organizations, others by foundations or private providers. Examples:
- Merit scholarships: for good school performance, social commitment or special talents.
- Need-based scholarships: support low-income families.
- Special scholarships: for specific countries, types of schools or areas of interest.
- Parliamentary Sponsorship Program (PPP): A joint program of the German Bundestag and the US Congress. It awards around 360 full scholarships per year for a year abroad in the USA.
- Franco-German Youth Office (DFH): Awarded annually up to 10 full scholarships as well as partial scholarships in amounts that vary depending on the program.
- AJA Scholarships: The working group of non-profit exchange organizations offers partial scholarships for students with particular social commitment or financial need.
- Sports scholarships: The German Sports Youth (DSJ) and other associations support talented athletes during their stay abroad.
- Regional & non-profit foundations: Many cities and federal states as well as foundations such as the Kreuzberg Children's Foundation award their own funding for years abroad.
Find out early and pay attention to deadlines. Many scholarships cover part of the costs; several smaller grants can be combined.
Foreign BAföG & state support
The Auslands-BAföG is government funding does not have to be repaid. The amount depends on your parents' income and assets as well as the costs of the program. For a school year abroad you can receive a monthly subsidy of up to varies depending on the program receive; one is added Travel allowance varies depending on the program or varies depending on the program. Some sources even mention maximum amounts of varies depending on the program per month. The funding period is limited to a maximum of one year and only applies to stays of six months or more (or a school semester). The prerequisite is that you continue to go to school in Germany after the year abroad or aim for a corresponding qualification.
The application must at least six months before departure be provided. The BAföG offices of the individual federal states are responsible. Find out early: In addition to the nationwide BAföG, there are regional grants such as the Hamburg state program, which vary depending on the program. To apply, you will need copies of your passport, school certificates and proof of income and assets.
Alternative financing options
- Payment in installments: Some organizations offer to pay the program price in several installments. Be aware of possible fees.
- Sponsoring & Crowdfunding: Local companies, clubs or online platforms can finance part of your year abroad. Tell us authentically about your goals and thank them for support.
- Student jobs & savings: Your own contribution shows commitment. Holiday jobs or babysitting help cover some of the costs.
Tips for applying for scholarships
- Stay authentic: Explain why you want to go abroad, what your goals are and how you will benefit from the funding.
- Collect all documents: Prepare certificates, language certificates, letters of recommendation and proof of commitment.
- Meet deadlines: Many scholarships have fixed dates. Allow enough time for writing and proofreading.
- Multiple applications: Apply to different providers to increase your chances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I combine several scholarships?
Yes, you can combine several partial scholarships if the conditions permit. Be sure to include any funding to avoid problems.
Do I have to repay scholarships?
Most scholarships are grants that do not have to be repaid. Exceptions only exist if the program is used inappropriately or is aborted.
How much is the BAföG abroad?
The amount depends on your parents' income and assets and the program costs. Currently, grants vary by program; Some state approvals even vary depending on the program. During the consultation we can give you a concrete estimate based on your program.
Who will help me apply?
Our advisors will support you in filling out applications and letters of motivation. Additionally, many organizations provide instructions and example texts.
Assign costs realistically
- The cost framework depends primarily on the country, duration, type of school, accommodation and services included.
- Additional costs such as flights, Visas, insurance, school materials or pocket money should be considered separately from the program price.
- Financing becomes easier if the budget, funding options and priorities are examined together at an early stage.
For further planning this fits: Cost, For parents, Application.
Related Topics
What Makes Sense Now
If you would like to clarify the next steps, we will sort out the countries, duration, budget, accommodation and any outstanding parental questions together.