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Definition. Statutory health insurance (GKV) is the system of statutory health insurance funds in which contributions are calculated according to income. Students can be insured there as compulsory members in student health insurance (KVdS), as family members or as voluntary members. The benefits are governed by Book V of the Social Code (SGB V).
How statutory health insurance is structured for students
Three routes into the GKV matter for students. You are compulsorily insured in student health insurance (KVdS) as long as the requirements are met. You are insured as a family member if one parent is statutorily insured and the income and age limits fit. You are voluntarily insured if neither applies, or if you stay insured after your studies.
Figures 2026 and their sources
| Figure | Value 2026 | Source |
|---|---|---|
| General contribution rate | 14.6 percent | § 241 SGB V |
| Average additional contribution rate | 2.9 percent | Federal Ministry of Health; GKV-Spitzenverband |
| Contribution assessment ceiling for health and long-term care insurance | EUR 5,812.50 per month | GKV-Spitzenverband, fact sheet on 2026 reference figures |
| Compulsory insurance limit | EUR 6,450 per month | GKV-Spitzenverband, fact sheet on 2026 reference figures |
An example for student health insurance
You are compulsorily insured in student health insurance. The assessment basis is EUR 855 per month. With the student rate of 10.22 percent, the basic contribution is EUR 87.38 per month. Your fund also charges its own additional contribution, which varies from fund to fund.
Related terms
- Student health insurance (KVdS): Glossary KVdS (in German)
- Additional contribution: Glossary additional contribution (in German)
- Family insurance: Glossary family insurance (in German)
- Return to statutory insurance: Return to statutory health insurance (in German)
- Full glossary: Health insurance for students: A to Z glossary (in German)
Frequently asked questions
Can I freely choose my statutory health insurance fund?
Yes, you can choose between funds and switch later. Note the twelve-month binding period, unless a special right of termination applies.
Are all benefits the same in the GKV?
The statutory benefits are uniformly regulated, but funds can offer additional benefits. So compare not only the additional contribution rate but also the offers that matter to you.
When is a switch to private health insurance possible?
A switch is possible under certain conditions, for example for employees above the compulsory insurance limit or after an exemption from compulsory insurance. Check the requirements for your situation.
Last updated: October 2026. This entry is general information, not individual advice. The German version is authoritative.
Sources: § 241 SGB V, GKV-Spitzenverband, fact sheet on 2026 reference figures, Federal Ministry of Health, contributions.
