Health and Safety Germany | HubStudentsEurope

Health and Safety

As a student in Germany, health insurance is mandatory by law, and without valid proof you cannot enrol at any university (Immatrikulation). The system is designed to protect you completely, giving you access to the same healthcare services as German citizens, at subsidised rates.

Mandatory Health Insurance (Krankenversicherung)
International students have two main options depending on their country of origin:

- If you are an EU citizen: You can use your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). You just need to send a copy of your card to a German public health insurance company (e.g. TK, AOK, Barmer) so that they can issue a digital exemption certificate (Meldung 10) directly to your university.
* If you are a non-EU citizen (or over 30): You must take out a public state health insurance for students (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung - GKV). The price is regulated by law and is around 120 - 130 EUR per month, covering consultations, hospitalization and prescriptions.

Accessing Medical Services: Step by Step
If you get sick during your studies, the system works in the following steps:

1. Choose a Family Doctor (Hausarzt): Find a doctor's office near you. For problems that are not life-threatening emergencies, always go to your family doctor first.

2. Present your Health Card: At the reception you will present your EHIC card or the card you received from your German insurance. The consultation is completely free of charge.

3. Obtain the Medical Letter for the University (Krankschreibung): If you are too ill to attend classes or take an exam, ask your doctor for a medical certificate (Certificate of Incapacity for Work/Study). You must notify the faculty secretariat immediately.
4. Buying Medicines: For prescription medicines (Rezept), go to any pharmacy (Apotheke). You will only pay a symbolic co-payment, usually between 5 and 10 EUR.

Emergencies and Rescue Numbers
In case of serious medical emergencies or accidents on or off campus, use the national assistance network:

- Call 112: Free number for Ambulance and Fire Brigade (Rettungsdienst & Feuerwehr).

- Call 116 117: Number for the 24-hour medical service outside office hours (evenings or weekends), if the condition is urgent but not life-threatening.

- Emergencies on Campus: Every German university has a department dedicated to security and first aid. Look for the emergency guide specific to the buildings where you study on your university's website.

Campus Safety and Lifestyle
German universities place great emphasis on the well-being and security of students:

- Accident Insurance (Unfallversicherung): As a registered student, you are automatically and free of charge insured against accidents that occur on campus or on the direct route between home and university.
- Free Psychological Counseling: The local student organization (Studierendenwerk) offers free and confidential psychological support (Psychotherapeutische Beratung) for students who are experiencing academic stress, burnout or adjustment problems.
- Nighttime Safety: Campuses and student towns are extremely safe. However, if you are returning late from the library, many cities offer the option of "Women's Taxis" (Frauentaxi) with reduced fares or special night buses that drop you off closer to home.

Which city or university in Germany are you going to study in, so that you can provide direct links to their local health and psychological support guide?

Gesetzliche Krankenkassen - GKV

In Germany, students almost always choose public health insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenkassen - GKV) because it offers a flat rate subsidized by law and comprehensive coverage.