🧮 See what GKV will cost you each month
Compare 15+ major German public health insurers side-by-side with live 2026 rates. Adapts to your age, children, working-student status and federal state. Free, no signup.
What’s the difference between private and public health insurance in Germany?
Pick GKV if you’re under 30, enrolled in a degree program, and plan to stay longer than 14 months — that’s about 80% of international students. GKV costs €141.16/month under age 23 and €146.29/month at 24+ (TK 2026 rates), covers every pre-existing condition, and keeps you eligible for family insurance (Familienversicherung) if your spouse is in the German public system. Pick PKV only if you’re 30+, in a language course (Sprachkurs, Studienkolleg — GKV won’t accept you), or you’re here for one or two semesters and want €30–€60/month no-frills coverage. The single biggest mistake international students make: choosing PKV to save €80/month, then being locked out of GKV for the rest of their German stay.
This guide compares both systems on price, coverage, visa acceptance, and the exit rules — plus when the switch goes one way and never back.
GKV vs PKV: how do the two systems compare?
| Factor | GKV (Public) | PKV (Private) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly cost | ~€146 | €30-€150 |
| Pre-existing conditions | Covered | May be excluded |
| Age limit | Under 30 | No limit |
| Doctor choice | Kassenärzte | Any doctor |
| Hospital room | Shared | Single possible |
| Family coverage | Free | Extra cost per person |
Studying in Germany requires navigating the complex health insurance landscape. For a comprehensive overview, explore our complete guide to health insurance in Germany. Understanding the difference between public (GKV) and private insurance is crucial for making the right choice for your situation.
What are the pros and cons of GKV (public insurance)?
Pros
- Fixed, predictable cost
- No health checks
- Full coverage
- Family coverage (Familienversicherung)
- Easy to use
Cons
- Higher cost than basic private plans
- Limited dental coverage
- Shared hospital rooms
What are the pros and cons of PKV (private insurance)?
Pros
- Can be much cheaper
- Broader coverage options
- Faster specialist access
- Any doctor
- No age limit
Cons
- Pay upfront, claim later
- Pre-existing conditions may be excluded
- No family coverage
- Premiums increase with age
- Difficult to switch back to GKV
When is GKV the better choice for students?
Choose GKV if:
- You’re under 30
- You have pre-existing conditions
- You prefer predictable costs
- You want hassle-free healthcare
- You plan to stay in Germany long-term
When is PKV the better choice for students?
Choose PKV if:
- You’re over 30 (GKV not available)
- You’re young, healthy, and want to minimize costs
- You’re only in Germany for 1-2 semesters
What happens to your insurance at the age 30 cutoff?
When you turn 30, your GKV student rate ends. You can stay in GKV at ~€210/month or switch to PKV.
Which insurance should you choose as an international student?
For most international students under 30: Choose GKV for the best combination of coverage, simplicity, and long-term flexibility.
For students over 30: PKV is your main option.
Need help deciding? Compare GKV and PKV plans.
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