Colleges and universities are becoming more family-friendly. There are an increasing number of on-campus childcare options, part-time degree programs, and semesters of leave
In many cases, however, regulations vary, particularly regarding childcare options. It’s advisable to find out about these options early on. When planning your future studies, you should seek out a personal conversation with professors or trusted advisors. Equal opportunity officers at the university, as well as the General Student Committee (AStA) or the Student Council (StuRa), and the social counseling service of the German Student Union (DSW), also provide helpful tips and advice.
Semester Leave
You have the option to take one or more semesters of leave. During this time, no BAföG is paid. Semesters of leave do not count toward the total number of academic semesters or the maximum duration of BAföG funding. During a leave of absence semester, students may be fully eligible for unemployment benefits (ALG II). Exam regulations may be relaxed, and students may begin part-time studies. If studies are interrupted for up to three months, BAföG benefits will continue to be paid.
Important: Notify the BAföG office of your leave of absence so that payments can be suspended and you will not have to repay any funds.
Part-Time Study
To reduce your course load, you can switch to part-time study. Doing so doubles the standard duration of your degree program. To apply for part-time study, you must provide specific reasons, such as caring for your own child. The application is submitted directly to the university; deadlines may vary. However, not all degree programs and majors are offered on a part-time basis—this is determined by the university. It is advisable to contact the student advising office in advance to clarify whether there are other options at the university for balancing your studies with childcare. In addition to the central student advising office, universities increasingly offer department-specific advising services. The advisors there are usually more familiar with the specific requirements of their respective departments.
Childcare Options
Childcare options are of enormous importance for students with children. Although study schedules can often be arranged flexibly, students frequently rely on external childcare to attend seminars or lectures, complete assignments or projects, or prepare for exams. Since August 2013, parents with a child who is at least one year old have a legal right to a childcare spot in a daycare center or kindergarten. However, these spots are in high demand—especially for children under three—and can sometimes be expensive. It is therefore advisable to start looking into childcare options as early as possible, ideally even during pregnancy.
Universities often have their own daycare centers where spots are reserved for students’ children. There are also daycare centers, kindergartens, and after-school care programs at the local level. Childcare providers and parent-child associations round out the range of institutional options. More than half of all students with children incur expenses for external childcare for their children. The costs for childcare (nurseries and daycare centers) are generally income-based. If you have your child cared for by a childminder, you should inquire with the Youth Welfare Office about possible financial subsidies.
