German Student Housing Allowance To Increase

Prices in Germany rose in April at the strongest rate since March 2024. Additionally, discussions are ongoing regarding expanded investigative powers for the Federal Criminal Police Office and Federal Police, including the use of artificial intelligence for data analysis. German goods and services prices rose by an average of 2.9 percent this month. The German Weather Service reported that April was dry and warm across Germany. Average rainfall was approximately 25 liters per square meter, which is less than half of the climatological norm. Rainfall levels only met averages in the east and northeast of the country. Energy prices in Germany have increased by approximately 10.1% year-on-year. The price increase of 10.1% is the largest year-on-year rise since early 2023. The monthly housing cost allowance for students living away from parents will increase by 60 euros to 440 euros starting next winter semester. The BAföG basic rate is intended to be raised in two steps to align with basic security levels. The BAföG rate is calculated based on parental income and other factors. Additionally, the Saarland state parliament has amended the state constitution.