Definition
The working student exemption means that employment alongside your studies remains exempt from health, long-term care and unemployment insurance for up to 20 hours a week, as long as your studies take up more of your time than the job. The amount of pay does not matter. Pension insurance remains compulsory.
Value (as of 20.10.2026)
| Item | Value | Status | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hours limit | 20 hours a week | Administrative practice | § 6 para. 1 no. 3 SGB V, § 27 para. 4 SGB III, circular of 23.11.2016 |
| Pension insurance contribution 2026 | 18.6 percent (employee pays half) | Official | Contribution rate notice 2026 |
Example
During the lecture period you work as a working student for 15 hours a week. You remain insured through the student health insurance (KVdS) and no health insurance contribution is deducted from your salary. During the semester break you may work more, provided that this work is your only job during that time and the limit is not exceeded.
Related terms
KVdS (student health insurance), mini-job, midi-job, semester break, predominance of studies.
Further reading
- Working student and health insurance: costs under 25, over 25 and over 30 (in German)
- Private health insurance for working students: what applies to cover and contributions (in German)
Sources
§ 6 SGB V, Joint circular on the insurance assessment of students and interns, 23.11.2016. Status: 20.10.2026.
Information, not individual advice.
Editorial team: Academycon · Last updated: October 2026
For a first assessment of your situation, use the online check (in German).
Last updated: October 2026. This glossary entry is general information, not individual advice. The German version is authoritative.
