Repaying BAföG: deadlines, amount and discount for early repayment

Student BAföG consists half of a loan that you repay later, but interest-free and capped. The repayment only begins years after the end of the funding, and with low income you can have yourself exempted. Pupil BAföG is usually a full grant.

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Your chances of getting your money back

The loan portion is interest-free and capped at a maximum amount. The repayment only begins around five years after the end of the maximum funding period, in moderate installments.

With low income you can have yourself exempted from the repayment (deferral). Under certain conditions these periods count, so that a remaining debt can be waived at the end.

What you should do now

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1. Clarify the start of repayment
Check the notice from the Federal Office of Administration: when does the repayment begin and how high is the installment?
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2. Apply for exemption
If your income is below the limit, apply for the exemption (deferral) from the installments in good time.
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3. Meet deadlines
Respond to letters from the Federal Office of Administration within the deadline so that no default costs or loss of benefits loom.
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4. Keep an eye on the remaining debt
After the repayment phase expires, a remaining debt can be waived. Keep all notices.

How to spot the scam

You do not respond to letters and thereby lose favorable conditions.
You pay even though your income would allow an exemption.
You confuse pupil BAföG (grant) with the student loan portion.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to repay BAföG completely?

With student BAföG only the loan portion, which is generally half, interest-free and capped at a maximum amount. Pupil BAföG is usually a full grant without repayment.

When does the repayment begin?

Around five years after the end of the maximum funding period. The Federal Office of Administration sends you a notice with the start and installment amount for this.

What if I earn little?

Then you can have yourself exempted from the repayment on application. File the application in good time. At the end of the repayment phase, a remaining debt can be waived under certain conditions.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.