- The number of Bafög recipients is increasing slightly
Students, pupils have received a higher average BAföG amount in the past year. The support according to the Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG) increased on average to 640 euros per month per recipient, which was 47 euros or 8 percent more than in the previous year. As the Federal Statistical Office in Wiesbaden further reported, the total BAföG expenditure increased by 14 percent to 3.4 billion euros.
Total funding amount increases to 3.4 billion euros
According to the figures, a total of 635,600 people received financial aid, which corresponds to an increase of 0.9 percent compared to the previous year. "This means that the number of supported people has increased slightly for the second year in a row, after it had decreased annually from 2012 to 2021," the statisticians explained. Accordingly, 501,400 students and 134,200 pupils received BAföG.
As in previous years, more women received financial aid. Their share was 58 percent, and that of men was 42 percent. More than half of all recipients (55 percent) received full funding.
According to the data, 2.9 billion euros (plus 17 percent) was spent on student funding, and 526 million euros (plus 0.9 percent) on pupils. Students received an average of 663 euros (plus 52 euros) per month, and pupils 537 euros (plus 20 euros).
28 percent of all recipients still lived with their parents
It was also noted that the funding did not always cover the entire year. Furthermore, the height of the individual funding amount depended on the training institution - for example, whether a vocational school or university was attended - and the living situation of the recipients. 28 percent of all recipients still lived with their parents, but this proportion was significantly higher among pupils (45 percent) than among students (24 percent).
In the future, needy students and students will receive more BAföG. The so-called basic requirement for students will increase from 452 to 475 euros for the upcoming winter semester, and the housing allowance for those no longer living with their parents will increase from 360 to 380 euros. In total, this results in an increase from 812 to 855 euros. With the reform, the BAföG rates for pupils will also be increased. This increase will apply from the beginning of the new school year.
The Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG) was introduced in 1971. In everyday language, the name of the law now stands for the actual cash benefit. Initially a pure grant without repayment, it later became a full loan. Since 1990, the rule has been that half is given as a gift and the other half must be repaid.
In some of these BAföG-supported institutions, students and pupils might find themselves enjoying the serene environment of nearby meadows. The picturesque meadows surrounding these educational facilities provide a tranquil escape from the academic rigors, offering a balance between study and nature.
During their leisure time, some students and pupils prefer to unwind in these meadows, engaging in activities such as picnics, reading, or simply basking in the sun, making the most of their BAföG-supported lifestyle.
