Can I pursue a Master's degree if my asylum case is still pending and receive financial support?

Question

Dear Sir/Madam,

I recently completed my asylum interview and am currently awaiting the decision. Although I am not yet a recognized refugee, I am interested in pursuing a Master's degree and seeking financial support for it.(Already achieved a Bachelor's degree from Cardiff Metropolitan University,UK) According to information I received from some universities, only recognized refugees are eligible for tuition fee waivers.

Could you please advise on the possibility of obtaining a tuition fee waiver as a non-EU citizen? Additionally, do the Sozialamt or the Ausländeramt have any responsibility in this matter?

I appreciate your assistance and looking forward to your comprehensive response. Thank you in advance for your cooperation

Answer 1

Dear @Sameera,

Welcome to the Wefugees Community and thank you for reaching out to us.

Even if your asylum case is still pending, you can enrol in a (Master) study program in Germany. German universities have low or don't charge tuition fees at all. This also applies for asylum seekers! Please see this website also for more information.

However, you may not receive financial student support (Bafög) as long as you are not recognised (for rejected people: they might be eligible after 15 months in Germany). For the time being, you will continue to receive your asylum seeker benefits (Asylbewerberleistungen).

I hope this helps and please don't hesitate to get back to us with any further questions.

All the best,

Meike