Working student: rights, hours and social contributions

Working students combine studies and a job. In employment-law terms the same protective rights apply as for other employees, such as minimum wage and vacation. In social-security law, the working-student privilege provides an important relief that is tied to conditions.

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Working students are employees and are entitled to the minimum wage, paid vacation and continued pay in case of illness. The studies, however, must take priority.

Under the working-student privilege, no contributions arise in health, care and unemployment insurance, as long as the activity during lecture periods generally does not exceed 20 hours per week. Pension contributions, however, must be paid.

What you should do now

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1. Clarify the status
Check whether you meet the requirements of the working-student privilege (enrolled studies taking priority).
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2. Keep an eye on hours
During lecture periods, watch the 20-hour limit so as not to lose the status.
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3. Check the contract
Make sure that minimum wage, vacation and working times are correctly regulated.
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4. Assert your rights
If wages or vacation are withheld, you can assert your claims in writing.

How to spot the scam

No minimum wage or no vacation is granted.
The 20-hour limit is permanently exceeded during lecture periods.
The employer does not register you correctly for social security.

Frequently asked questions

How many hours may I work as a working student?

During lecture periods generally at most 20 hours per week, so that the working-student privilege applies and the studies remain the priority. During semester breaks temporarily more is possible. Anyone who permanently exceeds the limit can lose the status.

Which social contributions do I pay as a working student?

Under the working-student privilege, contributions to health, care and unemployment insurance do not apply. But contributions to pension insurance must be paid. The condition is that the 20-hour limit during lecture periods is observed.

Am I entitled to vacation as a working student?

Yes. As an employee you are entitled to paid recreational vacation, proportionally to your working time. Likewise the minimum wage and continued pay in case of illness apply.

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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.