Wohngeld for students and trainees
Special rules apply to students and trainees for Wohngeld: anyone entitled in principle to training support is excluded from Wohngeld. But there are important exceptions – here is the overview for Leipzig.
The basic rule: training support excludes Wohngeld
Anyone entitled in principle to BAföG, vocational training allowance (BAB) or Schüler-BAföG cannot receive Wohngeld – regardless of whether the support is actually paid. The reason: housing costs are already included in these benefits.
These exceptions exist
- Maximum funding period exceeded: anyone who can no longer receive BAföG because the maximum period has expired can apply for Wohngeld.
- Age limit exceeded: anyone who has passed the age limit for BAföG can also be considered for Wohngeld.
- No funding entitlement in principle: anyone with no entitlement to funding in principle – for example for a second degree – can receive Wohngeld.
- Trainees without funding: anyone who receives no vocational training allowance or Schüler-BAföG because no entitlement exists can apply for Wohngeld.
Wohngeld in a shared flat
Anyone living in a shared flat only forms a household with the people they manage finances together with. Anyone managing finances separately counts as their own household.
What about the parents' income?
For Wohngeld, only the income of your own household counts – the parents' income does not matter.
What students should know
- Without BAföG entitlement, the Wohngeld application is often worthwhile.
- Wohngeld is possible even with a part-time job as long as the income limit is respected.
- When in doubt, apply – the Wohngeld office checks the requirements.
Frequently asked questions for students
Can students receive Wohngeld?
Yes, but only without entitlement to BAföG or other training support. Anyone entitled to BAföG in principle is excluded from Wohngeld – even if no BAföG is paid.
When can students without BAföG apply for Wohngeld?
For example when the maximum funding period or the age limit has been exceeded, for a second degree, or when there is no BAföG entitlement in principle.
Does this also apply to trainees?
Yes. Anyone entitled to vocational training allowance (BAB) or Schüler-BAföG is excluded. Without funding entitlement, Wohngeld is possible.
Apply for Wohngeld now
Make use of your entitlement – start your Wohngeld application directly.
Start your Wohngeld application now