Part-Time Studies and Bürgergeld: A Tightrope Walk for Students
Students who reduce their full-time studies to part-time may lose their eligibility for BAföG (Federal Education Assistance Act) and subsequently, access to Bürgergeld (Germany’s basic income support) as a supplementary benefit. This was recently affirmed by the Baden-Württemberg Landessozialgericht (Regional Social Court) in a ruling published on February 13, 2026 (Az.: L 13 AS 161/26 ER-B). The case highlights the complex interplay between student financial aid and social welfare programs.
BAföG Loss Triggers Bürgergeld Ineligibility
The court’s decision centers on a student pursuing a degree in “Applied Artificial Intelligence” who transitioned to part-time studies due to family care responsibilities. Upon losing BAföG eligibility as a result of the reduced course load, the student applied for Bürgergeld as a supplementary income. The Jobcenter (local employment agency) denied the application, citing that the student’s education remained fundamentally eligible for BAföG support, disqualifying them from Bürgergeld.
The Core Principle: BAföG Priority
The LSG Stuttgart upheld the Jobcenter’s decision, emphasizing that individuals pursuing education deemed eligible for BAföG are generally excluded from receiving Bürgergeld. This principle applies as long as the education “generally fully occupies the student’s working capacity.” Switching from full-time to part-time study due to personal circumstances doesn’t automatically alter this fundamental eligibility for BAföG.
Hardship Clauses Offer a Limited Exception
However, the court acknowledged a potential exception. In cases of short-term hardship, such as the immediate require to care for a family member, a loan to secure a basic standard of living may be granted. The court cautioned, however, that this hardship provision is unlikely to apply to prolonged part-time studies.
Implications for Students Balancing Education and Life
This ruling underscores the challenges faced by students who need to balance their education with personal responsibilities, such as family care. The system prioritizes BAföG, but the reality is that BAföG may not always be sufficient or accessible, particularly when study patterns change.
The case illustrates a potential gap in support for students who are unable to maintain full-time studies but still require financial assistance to cover their living expenses.
Future Trends and Potential Reforms
This decision could signal a tightening of eligibility criteria for Bürgergeld for students. Several factors suggest a need for ongoing evaluation of these policies:
- Increasing Student Debt: Rising tuition fees and living costs are pushing more students into debt, making them more reliant on financial aid.
- Changing Family Structures: More students are juggling studies with family responsibilities, necessitating flexible study options.
- Labor Market Demands: The demand for skilled workers is increasing, but many students face barriers to completing their education due to financial constraints.
Potential reforms could include:
- Expanding BAföG Eligibility: Adjusting BAföG criteria to better accommodate part-time students and those with family responsibilities.
- Creating a Supplemental Support Program: Establishing a dedicated program to provide financial assistance to students who lose BAföG eligibility but still demonstrate financial need.
- Streamlining Application Processes: Simplifying the application process for both BAföG and Bürgergeld to reduce administrative burdens and ensure timely access to support.
FAQ
Q: If I reduce my study load, will I automatically lose my Bürgergeld?
A: Not necessarily, but it could affect your eligibility. If your education becomes eligible for BAföG, you may no longer qualify for Bürgergeld as a supplement.
Q: Can I get a loan if I need to care for a family member and can’t study full-time?
A: Potentially. The court indicated that a loan to cover basic living expenses may be possible in cases of short-term hardship.
Q: What is BAföG?
A: BAföG is a German student financial aid program designed to provide financial support to eligible students.
Q: What is Bürgergeld?
A: Bürgergeld is Germany’s basic income support program, providing financial assistance to individuals who are unable to meet their basic needs.
Pro Tip: If you are considering reducing your study load, consult with a BAföG advisor and a social welfare counselor to understand the potential impact on your financial aid and benefits.
Do you have experience navigating the complexities of student financial aid and social welfare programs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
