Health Insurance for International Students in Germany
Anyone coming to Germany for a language course needs to address the issue of health insurance well in advance. For international language students, adequate health insurance coverage is not only advisable but, in most cases, required by law. Without recognized health insurance, you cannot apply for a visa, nor can a residence permit be issued or renewed.
In addition, appropriate international health insurance protects you from high costs in the event of illness or accident. Doctor visits, hospital stays, or medication can quickly become expensive in Germany. Health insurance specifically tailored to language students and international course participants ensures that you are covered during your stay and can fully concentrate on your language course.
Why should language students get health insurance?
Foreign language students are generally not considered regular students in Germany. For this reason, enrollment in the statutory health insurance system is usually not possible. Instead, German embassies and immigration authorities require private health insurance that meets certain minimum standards and covers the entire duration of the stay.
Health insurance for language students was developed specifically for participants in language courses (e.g., online German courses), DSH preparation courses, preparatory colleges, and university applicants. It meets all requirements of German immigration authorities and visa offices and is recognized for both Schengen visas and national visas under Section 16 of the Residence Act.
Coverage in Detail: What Is Covered?
The Care “College” health insurance for international language students covers the most important medical services needed in Germany in the event of illness. It meets the requirements of immigration authorities and also offers comprehensive basic coverage that is truly helpful in everyday life.
| CARE COLLEGE SERVICES* | BASIC from 26€ mtl. |
COMFORT from 32€ mtl. |
PREMIUM from 48€ mtl. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Inpatient treatment | |||
| Inpatient care, shared room, without optional services | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Inpatient treatment of mental health conditions | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Visit by a family member (stay of more than 14 days) | ✖ | 500,– € | 1.250,– € |
| Daily Hospitalization Benefit (for stays of 14 days or more) | ✖ | ✖ | ✔ (100 € flat rate) |
| Patient transport | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| CARE COLLEGE SERVICES* | BASIC from 26€ mtl. |
COMFORT from 32€ mtl. |
PREMIUM from 48€ mtl. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outpatient treatment | |||
| Outpatient Care in General | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Maximum reimbursement rate under the GOÄ in Germany | 1,8 | 2,3 | 2,3 |
| Medications, per insurance year | 250,– € | 500,– € | 1.500,– € |
| Vision aids | ✖ | ✖ | 100,– € |
| CARE COLLEGE SERVICES* | BASIC from 26€ mtl. |
COMFORT from 32€ mtl. |
PREMIUM from 48€ mtl. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental treatment | |||
| Pain-relieving dental treatment (per insurance year) | 500,– € | 750,– € | 1.250,– € |
| Dental prosthetics (Waiting period: 8 months) | ✖ | 50 % till 500 € | 70 % till 1.000 € |
| Additional Services & Details | |||
| Deductible, per insurance year | 120,– € | 0,– € | 0,– € |
| Money-Back Guarantee (No-Performance Obligation) | ✖ | ✔ | ✔ |
| Sick pay for serious illness | ✖ | 1.500,– € | 2.500,– € |
About Services and Prices
Our partner Care Concept: The right insurance for your language course and visa
In partnership with Care Concept AG, a provider specializing in international insurance, we offer language students health insurance that is specifically tailored to their needs. Our focus is on both regulatory requirements and practical use in everyday life.
The key benefits at a glance:
- Recognized by German immigration authorities and embassies
- Suitable for language courses, preparatory colleges, and college applicants
- Immediate insurance coverage with no waiting period
- Online purchase with immediate download of the insurance confirmation
- Affordable monthly premiums, specially designed for high school and college students
- Generally, no medical examination is required
- Flexible terms, tailored to the duration of the language course
- Optional liability and accident insurance included
With this health insurance, you will not only meet all the formal requirements for your visa, but you will also receive reliable medical coverage throughout your entire stay in Germany.
Who is eligible for Care College insurance?
This health insurance is specifically designed for language students and international course participants coming to Germany. Typical target groups include:
- Participants in language courses (e.g., German as a foreign language)
- Participants in DSH preparation courses
- Students and prospective students attending a preparatory college
- Individuals who are applying to study and need a visa to do so
- Participants in exam preparation courses (e.g., TestDaF, telc)
Important: Regular students often need a different type of health insurance (public or private). Care “College” insurance is ideal for language courses and preparatory study programs.
Additional health insurance options for international language students
| For Care Student: | Book this rate now |
| DAK Health Insurance for Employees: | Book this rate now |
| Fit&Travel supplemental insurance for existing DAK members: | Book this rate now |
Change or Cancellation
If you decide to end your policy early or switch to a different insurance provider, flexible cancellation is often possible. The exact terms depend on your plan, but adjustments can usually be made easily.
Frequently Asked Questions About Health Insurance for Language Students (FAQ)
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Is travel insurance sufficient for the language course?
Short answer: No, not in most cases. Travel health insurance is usually temporary and does not meet the requirements of embassies and immigration authorities. To obtain a visa for a language course, you need long-term health insurance.
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How soon will I receive confirmation of my insurance?
With many providers, immediately after completing the application online. The insurance confirmation is available for download as a PDF—perfect for your visa application.
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Can I cancel my insurance if I go home early?
Yes, generally speaking, you can cancel or adjust your plan if your circumstances change (e.g., the end of a course, your return trip). The specific terms and conditions are outlined in your plan details.
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Does health insurance for international students also include liability and accident insurance?
Liability and accident insurance are often included in add-on packages or can be selected as optional coverage. This is particularly important for language students, who might unintentionally cause damage in their daily lives or during class.