Discount
Broadcasting fee exemption
Befreiung vom Rundfunkbeitrag ·Administered by ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice
Every household in Germany pays the Rundfunkbeitrag of €18.36 per month. If you receive BAföG and don't live with your parents, your household is fully exempted on application; a hardship rule covers cases where income only just exceeds the threshold. The exemption can be granted retroactively for up to three years.
Who qualifies
- You receive BAföG
- You don't live with your parents
- Hardship rule if your income only slightly exceeds the relevant threshold
How to apply
Apply online at rundfunkbeitrag.de and attach your current BAföG award notice.
Deadlines: Retroactive for up to 3 years
Apply / official channel →Sources
- Informationen für Studierende — ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice (retrieved 10 July 2026)
- Rundfunkbeitrag für Studenten — Studis Online (retrieved 10 July 2026)
Last verified 10 July 2026