The general rule is that

• Students who are completing their first school or vocational training or a degree programme are entitled to child benefit at least until they reach the age of 25.
• During initial training, you are allowed to work and earn money without restriction. Income and benefit limits have been abolished.
• Anyone who has not yet reached the age of 25 and wishes to complete further education (e.g. a Master's degree) may work a maximum of 20 hours per week on the side - regardless of how much money is earned. The amount of money earned from this work is not relevant.
• if the waiting period for a study place is no longer than 4 months, you can still receive child benefit.

In the case of illness and leave of absence

• if you are on sick leave for longer than six months, you must submit a medical certificate from a public health officer. This must confirm that you will be able to continue your studies in the foreseeable future.

For exceptions to child benefit over 25, the following applies

• The Family Benefits Fund pays child benefit in exceptional cases if these conditions can be proven to exist:
  • The person is unable to support themselves due to their disability
  • The disability itself occurred before the age of 25
  • Severely disabled person's pass or assessment notice from the pension office
  • Notification of a pension due to the disability
  • Care allowance notification for a classification in care degree 4 or 5
  • Medical report (the medical report or certificate must indicate the effects of the disability on gainful employment).

Further information on child benefit can be found on the website of the Federal Employment Agency.

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