The Federal Minister for Research, Dorothee Bär, no longer expects a swift overhaul of the BAföG student financing system. While she stated that her ministry has positioned itself for the BAföG reform and is technically on schedule, she also heard that the reform is losing support among the governmental parliamentary factions. Initially, the reform had been planned to take effect in the winter semester of 2026/27.
Bär expressed understanding regarding a potential halt to the BAföG changes. She argued that if essential groups, such as those needing care, are required to save money or if cuts are made to parental allowances, it is understandable that the government could not simultaneously promise large, additional benefits elsewhere. In her view, politics involves setting priorities and formulating viable overall packages, noting that proposing demands to parliament without knowing they will secure a majority is ultimately ineffective.
Regarding the situation for students in Germany, Bär described it as highly privileged. She pointed out that there are no tuition fees, and the state enables many young people to pursue higher education in the first place. Furthermore, she emphasized that working part-time alongside studies is not problematic, as many students gain valuable life and professional experience through doing so. She noted that all students benefit from semester breaks, stressing that no one can expect a fully state-funded education; everyone must contribute to their own studies. She shared that she herself worked while pursuing her studies.
In terms of improving the BAföG experience, the minister announced enhancements to the information process. An AI-supported chatbot will be integrated into the bafoeg-digital portal to answer questions and assist with filling out applications. This new tool will also connect to the existing BAföG calculator, allowing users to receive an informal and anonymous assessment of a potential claim. This new feature is expected to be available later this year.
On a different front, Bär indicated that a rapid reform of the law regarding scientific employment contracts is underway. The goal of this reform is to improve contract stability. The draft law has now moved to be discussed by the Länder (states) and professional associations, and negotiations between the Union and the SPD have proceeded well. By utilizing her ministry’s existing draft, policymakers aim to create a secure legal framework and increased transparency. Specific improvements to working conditions and planning security will be achieved through the initial implementation of minimum contract terms for new agreements.
