Studies: Which Health Insurance Do You Need for the Enrollment in Germany?

Students under 30 typically join a GKV such as DAK-Gesundheit (around €135–151/month depending on children and age). German universities require proof of statutory health insurance (GKV) or a formal GKV exemption. Students over 30, PhD candidates or those exempt from GKV can use Care Student (from €101.54/month), which is generally recognised as GKV-equivalent for enrolment.

Statutory GKV runs at approximately €135–151/month for students, depending on children and age. The recognised private alternative for students over 30 or exempt from GKV is Care Student, from €101.54/month. For language courses or Studienkolleg before university, Care College starts at €27.50/month for applicants up to 29.

No — german universities only accept a GKV membership certificate (M10 form) or a GKV exemption combined with a private insurance confirmation. Travel or incoming insurance such as Care Economy can bridge the gap before enrolment but is not accepted for enrolment itself. For students over 30 the recognised GKV-equivalent option is Care Student, from €101.54/month.

GKV membership (DAK Studenten ~€150.65/month) transmits the electronic M10 to the university under § 254 SGB V. Students 30+ or GKV-exempt use Care Student €101.54/month, which also issues the M10. Compare on /en/insurance-plans/dak-studenten/overview/.

Within 24 hours of GKV registration — DAK sends the electronic M10 directly to the Studierendensekretariat under § 199a SGB V. Care Student issues the M10 within 3 working days. See /en/insurance-plans/care-student/overview/.