How to Find a Job in Germany and Get Financial Support While Studying at the University of Stuttgart

Explore how to find a job in Germany, secure financial aid, and study at the University of Stuttgart. Visa, permits, costs & scholarships explained!

🇩🇪 How to Find a Job in Germany and Financial Support at the University of Stuttgart

Studying and working in Germany, especially at one of its premier institutions like the University of Stuttgart, is a life-changing opportunity for international students. However, understanding the legalities, financial obligations, and available support is critical for a successful journey.

🎓 Starting Your First Job as a Student in Germany

Before starting any paid employment, you must meet these student work eligibility criteria in Germany:

• ✅ A valid residence permit or student visa with explicit work permission

• ✅ German health insurance (public or private)

• ✅ A German tax identification number (ID-Nr.) issued after registration

• ✅ A social security number (Sozialversicherungsnummer)

You can obtain most of these through your university or health insurance provider. Discuss with your employer if they’ll handle the registration.

🔍 Top Job Search Portals for International Students

• Stellenwerk Stuttgart – On-campus and local student jobs

• Jobsuche – Official portal by the Federal Employment Agency

• LinkedIn, Stepstone, Indeed, Jobmensa, StudentJob – International-friendly platforms

💡 Pro Tip: Network with faculty and staff at the University of Stuttgart. Internal roles often don’t appear on public boards.

💼 Popular Student Job Types in Germany (2025)

➡️ Minimum wage in Germany (2025): €12.82/hour
➡️ Max work hours: 20/week during term, full-time during semester breaks

📄 Work Permit Rules for Non-EU vs. EU Students

For Non-EU Students:

• Permitted to work 140 full days or 280 half days/year

• All types of work, including remote or online work, count

• Freelance work requires special permission from the Ausländerbehörde

• Compulsory internships are exempt from these limits

For EU Students:

• Can work under the same regulations as German students

• Must switch from EHIC to German public health insurance for paid employment.

🛂 Germany Job Seeker Visa Requirements (Post-Studies)

After graduation, many students transition to full-time work through the Germany Job Seeker Visa. Key requirements:

• A recognized degree from a German university

• Proof of sufficient funds for 6 months

• Valid health insurance

• Residence registration & accommodation.

🎯 This visa allows you to stay in Germany for 18 months post-graduation to find a job aligned with your studies.

💶 What Is the Cost of Studying and Living in Stuttgart?

Stuttgart is known for both academic excellence and high living costs. Here’s a breakdown:

🏫 University Fees:

• Semester contribution: €180 (degree students), €100 (exchange students)

• Tuition fee for non-EU students: €1,500/semester

💸 Monthly Living Costs:

📌 Total monthly cost: Approx. €992–€1,200/month

🏆 Scholarships and Financial Aid at the University of Stuttgart

🎓 Top Scholarship Sources:

• DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service)

  • Offers merit-based aid to international students

  • Does not cover €1,500 tuition fee for non-EU students

• Deutschlandstipendium

  • Merit-based aid funded jointly by the government and private sponsors

  • Open to both national and international students

• Political foundations like Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, Heinrich Böll Stiftung

  • Require German language proficiency

✅ Apply before arriving in Germany. Most deadlines are earlier than university admissions deadlines.

🆘 Temporary Financial Support Options

If you face a sudden financial emergency, the University of Stuttgart International Office may help with:

• Emergency grants

• Food vouchers

• Rent support

Application Deadlines for Emergency Aid (2025):

• January 31

• June 30

• October 31

📩 Email the International Office in advance to schedule a consultation and access the application.

📢 Additional Student Financial Tips

• Apply for a tax refund if you’ve worked in Germany and paid income tax. Visit the ELSTER tax portal.

• Use ISIC student cards for discounts on transport, software, and events.

• Plan for an extra semester in case of delays – financial buffer is essential.

🧾 Student Tax Refund Germany: What You Should Know

Students who work and pay taxes in Germany are eligible for a student tax refund:

• File annually through the ELSTER tax portal

• Refunds can reach up to €1,000 depending on income

• Mini-job holders are usually tax-exempt, but Werkstudenten may qualify for partial returns.

👉 Always keep your Lohnsteuerbescheinigung (income statement) and receipts for deductions.

🧾 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I survive in Stuttgart without a scholarship?
Yes, but you must budget wisely, apply for student jobs, and possibly seek emergency funding.

Q: Do internships count toward the work limit for non-EU students?
Only voluntary internships count. Mandatory internships are exempt.

Q: Can I work remotely for a company outside Germany?
Yes, but this counts toward your work limit under your student residence permit.

Q: Can I become a freelancer in Germany as a student?
Only with permission from the Foreigners’ Office. It’s not the default.

✅ Make a Solid Financial Plan

Whether you’re enrolling at the University of Stuttgart or anywhere else in Germany, early planning is the key to success. Understanding your work rights, budget, and financial aid options will help you avoid financial stress and focus on your education.

Germany offers incredible educational and career opportunities, but it’s your responsibility to navigate them smartly. From DAAD scholarships to high-paying Werkstudent jobs, leverage every opportunity available!