Student Essentials for Germany
The accounts, insurance, SIM and cards you have to set up for Germany — and which ones Bibin uses himself. Every one here is something he has researched, used, or personally vetted. No random referrals — only what actually works.
One of the most popular blocked account providers for Indian students. Fast setup, clear process, and accepted by all German consulates. Also offers health insurance bundles.
The other leading blocked account provider. Strong reputation, clean interface, and quick processing. Many students use Fintiba as their first choice for its simplicity.
One of Germany's largest public health insurers. Excellent English support, strong digital experience, and widely accepted. Most international students choose TK for its ease of enrollment.
One of the cheapest public insurers in Germany, backed by a big regional structure built over 140+ years. Runs a fully English website and English-language hotline, so support doesn't get lost in translation.
An India-based forex debit card built for students — load it in INR from any Indian bank account and spend in euros at the live Visa rate, with no markup fee. Also works as a linked, interest-earning savings account back in India.
A multi-currency account and card that lets you hold and spend in 40+ currencies at the real mid-market exchange rate, including euros once you're in Germany. Useful for receiving money from home or paying in other currencies while travelling.
One of Germany's three major network operators, with excellent nationwide coverage and 5G in most cities. Prepaid CallYa plans work well for students who want reliable, contract-free connectivity from day one.
A low-cost SIM-only provider run by Drillisch Online (United Internet), using the 1&1 5G network. Its Allnet Flat plans include unlimited calls and SMS within Germany, EU roaming and free number transfer, and the SIM-only tariffs can be cancelled monthly with no minimum term. The eSIM is free and activates in minutes; a physical SIM is a one-off €2.99.
O2 (Telefónica) is Germany's third major network, strong in cities with competitive prepaid data plans. A solid direct-from-carrier option if you want more data per euro than Vodafone or Telekom.
A prepaid SIM sold in ALDI supermarkets, running on the O2 network. One of the most popular budget options among students — affordable 4-week data plans with no contract or German bank account required.
German online bank with a full English app. One of the easiest accounts to open as an international student — no Anmeldung needed, so you can open it as soon as you land. Free tier available.
If you need a traditional German bank with physical branches — useful for some landlords and employers who prefer established banks for direct debit mandates.
Germany's leading investment app — ETFs, stocks, and savings plans with very low fees. Widely used by Indian students in Germany who want to start investing with small amounts.
A Munich-based, BaFin-regulated investment app and bank offering ETF savings plans from as little as €1/month with no account fees on the free plan. A strong low-cost alternative to Trade Republic for students starting small.
International student discount platforms — access hundreds of discounts on software, travel, clothing, and tech. ISIC (International Student Identity Card) is accepted worldwide.
A free digital student discount platform covering 300+ brands — from fashion and tech to food delivery — verified through your university email or student ID. Works alongside ISIC rather than replacing it, since the two cover different types of discounts.