GKV — Public Health Insurance
for Students in Germany
The standard choice for international students under 30. Same coverage, same price at all providers — ~€110/month.
Compare GKV ProvidersWhat is the GKV?
The Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung (GKV) is Germany's statutory public health insurance system. It covers about 90% of the German population and provides comprehensive healthcare coverage.
As an international student, you have access to the same GKV benefits as German citizens — doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, mental health care, and more.
Why Students Need GKV
- ✓ Legally required for university enrollment
- ✓ Accepted everywhere — all doctors, all hospitals
- ✓ No claim rejections — everything medically necessary is covered
- ✓ Family coverage included at no extra cost
- ✓ Visa-compliant — accepted by all embassies
Who Can Join the GKV?
✅ You Qualify If:
- You are under 30 years old
- You are enrolled at a recognized German university
- You are in your first degree (Bachelor/Master)
- You haven't studied for more than 14 semesters
- You are an EU/EEA citizen OR have a valid student visa
❌ You May Not Qualify If:
- You are 30 or older
- You are in a language/preparatory course (Studienkolleg)
- You are a PhD candidate with employment
- You have studied for more than 14 semesters
- You are a visiting/exchange student with home insurance
Top GKV Providers Compared
All GKV providers charge the same student rate (~€110/month) and offer the same base coverage. The difference is in service quality and extras.
| Provider | Monthly Cost | English Support | Online App | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Techniker Krankenkasse (TK) | ~€110 | ✅ Excellent | ✅ TK-App | Most popular with international students |
| AOK | ~€110 | ✅ Good (varies by region) | ✅ Meine AOK | Strong regional presence, in-person support |
| Barmer | ~€110 | ✅ Good | ✅ Barmer-App | Mental health extras, telemedicine |
| DAK-Gesundheit | ~€110 | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ DAK-App | Fitness & prevention bonuses |
| IKK classic | ~€110 | ⚠️ Limited | ✅ IKK-App | Lower additional contribution rate |
How the Cost Breaks Down
How to Enroll in the GKV
Choose a GKV Provider
Pick TK, AOK, Barmer, DAK, or IKK. We recommend TK for the best English support and digital experience.
Apply Online or In-Person
Fill out the application with your passport, university admission letter, and enrollment certificate.
Receive Insurance Confirmation
Get your Versicherungsbescheinigung (insurance certificate) — usually within 1–3 business days.
Submit to University
Upload or deliver the certificate to your university's enrollment office to complete Immatrikulation.
Receive Your Health Card
Your electronic health card (eGK) arrives by mail in 2–3 weeks. Use it at any doctor or hospital.
GKV vs. Private Health Insurance
| Feature | GKV (Public) | Private (PKV) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | ~€110 (fixed) | €39–€120 (varies) |
| Age Limit | Under 30 | No limit |
| Coverage Scope | Comprehensive (legally defined) | Depends on plan |
| Doctor Access | All GKV-contracted doctors | All doctors (incl. private) |
| Waiting Times | Can be longer | Usually shorter |
| Family Coverage | Free (Familienversicherung) | Extra cost per person |
| Switching Back | — | Difficult after choosing PKV |
| Visa Acceptance | ✅ Always accepted | ✅ If requirements met |
| University Enrollment | ✅ Always accepted | ⚠️ May need Befreiung |
| Best For | Students under 30 | Students over 30, short stays |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GKV student rate the same at all providers?
Almost. The base rate is identical, but each provider can charge a slightly different Zusatzbeitrag (additional contribution). The difference is typically €2–5/month.
Can I switch GKV providers?
Yes, after 12 months of membership you can switch to any other GKV provider with 2 months notice. The process is simple and your new provider handles the paperwork.
What does the GKV cover?
Doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, prescription medications, mental health care, basic dental care, maternity care, rehabilitation, and preventive care. The coverage is defined by law and is the same at all providers.
Do I need to pay anything when visiting a doctor?
No. With GKV, you simply show your electronic health card (eGK) and the doctor bills the insurance directly. There are no co-pays for standard care.
What if I'm over 30?
You can't join the student GKV rate. Your options are: voluntary GKV membership (~€230/month) or private health insurance (from €39/month). For most students over 30, private insurance is more affordable.
Can I join GKV if I'm in a language course?
No. GKV student rates are only for students enrolled in a degree program at a recognized university. Language course and Studienkolleg students need private insurance.
Ready to Join the GKV?
Get started with Germany's public health insurance. We'll help you choose the right provider and handle the application.