When you register or reregister at the university you will have to give proof that you paid the social contribution. Only students taking a sabbatical are exempt from paying this fee. The social contribution is no tuition fee – the full amount is paid to the Studentenwerk which provides social and cultural services for the students‘ benefit.

Government grants only affect the services relating to BAföG issues, refectories and childcare facilities. All other services offered are financed through the social contribution and other income. The contribution amount is subject to the decision of the Studentenwerk’s administrative board, university representatives and students.

The Studentenwerk uses the income from the social contribution for financing its refectories and cafeterias, the administration and maintainance of its halls of residence and private accommodation services. Students in Karlsruhe and Pforzheim are covered by liability insurance while they are registered at one of our universities.

Two psychotherapeutic teams assist students in any difficult situation at no cost. Graduation loans and short-term loans are granted in cases of need. Tutor programs for students are supported. Cultural work of students is promoted. For parent students two daycare facilities for children offer spaces at a cheap rate.

Since 1996, the social contribution includes the so called "Studi-Ticket" for public transport in Karlsruhe (with 17.50€) and Pforzheim (with 16€). In January 2003 it was decided that the amount of 5€ of the social contribution is to be spent for co-financing the hall of residence in Nancystraße 5 in Karlsruhe. This amount will only be paid as long as financial support is necessary for Nancystraße 5.

The amount of contribution varies at the different universities. It always depends on to what extent the the services mentioned above are available at the different institutions. For more information please read through the regulations concerning the social contribution (valid since the winter semester 2004/2005). From winter semester 2010/2011 the amounts of contribution are as follows:

• Karlsruhe University 62,70 €*
• Karlsruhe University of Education 62,70 €*
• Karlsruhe University of Music 62,70 €*
• Karlsruhe Academy of Fine Arts 62,70 €*
• Karlsruhe Academy of Design 62,70€*
• Karlsruhe University of Applied Sciences 62,70 €*
• Karlsruhe University of Cooperative Education 62,70 €*
• Pforzheim University of Applied Sciences 58 €**

Subscription scale (in German)