Who is funding what?
Students with disabilities or chronic illnesses often have to sort out additional issues alongside general student funding, for example regarding regular additional costs, study breaks, extended study periods or a delayed start to their studies. Added to this is often financial uncertainty, as many of those affected are unable to work and cannot build up savings.
There is no single source of student funding. A range of different funding bodies cover the costs of standard living expenses and disability-related support needs. Clarifying which body is responsible can sometimes be difficult. It sometimes happens that benefits applied for are not provided, or are not sufficient to meet needs, and that approval deadlines are not met. Furthermore, most benefits for additional needs arising from a disability are only granted on the basis of income and assets. The handbook “Studying and Disability” published by the German Student Services Organisation (Studentenwerk Deutschland) is a useful resource.
Provide information in good time
Prospective students should find out for themselves at an early stage which funding body can cover which costs and under what conditions. The social welfare and student finance advice centres run by the Studierendenwerke (student services associations) can help with any queries.
