Studying in Germany not only provides a high-quality education but also offers students the chance to work part-time to earn in Germany to help cover their expenses.
For international students, knowing how much they can earn and understanding the rules around student jobs is essential for budgeting and planning their time.
How Much Can a Student Earn in Germany Per Month?
- Student Employment in Germany
Germany allows international students to work part-time while studying, which can make studying abroad more affordable.
Students can work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, according to German regulations.
This rule ensures that work does not interfere with studies.
Jobs range from campus roles like research or teaching assistants to off-campus positions in retail, hospitality, or customer service.
Part-Time Jobs in Germany for International Students – CLICK HERE
Types of Jobs Available for Students in Germany
- Germany offers various part-time jobs that suit student schedules.
- Popular options include university jobs, including teaching or research assistants, which often pay well and offer relevant experience.
- For flexible hours, students can work in cafes, restaurants, or shops, where they gain customer service skills.
- Some students choose freelance work, like tutoring or writing, which can also fit around their study schedules and often pay higher hourly rates.
Legal Limits on Working Hours for Students
- To make sure students focus on their studies, Germany limits work hours to 20 hours per week during the semester.
- During semester breaks, students can work up to 40 hours per week.
- Staying within these limits is important, as working beyond them may impact a student visa status and lead to additional tax requirements.
- By balancing work within these limits, students can make money without compromising their studies.
Expected Earnings per Hour in Various Jobs
- Student wages in Germany vary depending on the job type, location, and required skills.
- On average, students earn between €10 and €15 per hour.
- University-based jobs, like research assistant roles, may pay more, while jobs in retail or hospitality tend to fall on the lower end of the scale.
- Freelance jobs, such as tutoring, can pay up to €20 per hour, depending on demand and expertise.
- Understanding these rates can help students choose jobs to earn in Germany that suit their financial needs.
Read: Which unskilled jobs are in demand in Germany?
Monthly Earnings Calculation Based on Working Hours
- To estimate monthly earnings, students can calculate based on the 20-hour weekly work limit.
- For example, at an average rate of €12 per hour, a student working 20 hours a week can expect to earn around €960 per month before taxes.
- During semester breaks, if they work 40 hours a week, they could potentially earn around €1,920 per month.
Cost of Living for Students in Germany
- The cost of living in Germany varies by city but averages between €850 and €1,200 per month for students.
- Major expenses include rent, food, transportation, and leisure activities.
- Rent is usually the biggest expense, especially in cities like Munich or Berlin.
- While earnings from a part-time job can help cover some of these costs, they may not fully fund all expenses, so budgeting is key.
Tax and Insurance Obligations for Student Workers
- Students who earn in Germany below €520 per month typically do not have to pay taxes.
- Yet, if they exceed this amount or work more than 20 hours per week, they may be subject to taxes and social security contributions.
- Health insurance is also required, and students need to stay informed about these obligations to avoid unexpected expenses.
- Many students choose student insurance plans, which are generally affordable.
Bottom Line
With a bit of planning and budgeting, working part-time to earn in Germany can be a rewarding experience that makes studying abroad more affordable.
Read: What is the cheapest insurance in Germany for students?
