The Commission acknowledges that the support initiative exceeds the essential amount required to reach the shared objective of mutual benefit.
In the year 2024, Saxony-Anhalt witnessed a decrease in the number of individuals receiving financial support under the Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG). A total of 18,193 individuals received such support, marking a 11.4% decrease from the previous year, amounting to approximately €11 million less in total support.
Amidst this decline, a new financial aid measure was introduced - the Study Start Grant. This grant, aimed at first-year students, particularly those starting studies under more challenging financial conditions or without prior financial independence, supplements or complements BAföG. The grant is a one-time financial contribution of €1,000 for the start of studies.
The Study Start Grant is intended for individuals under 25 who receive certain social benefits before starting their studies and are first-time students. In 2024, 238 individuals in Saxony-Anhalt received this grant. Interestingly, in 13.9% of cases, the basis for claiming the Study Start Grant was receipt of housing benefit under the Housing Benefit Act before the start of studies. On the other hand, 66.0% of cases were based on receipt of benefits under SGB II.
It's worth noting that 1992 saw the highest number of BAföG recipients (40,132) in Saxony-Anhalt, while 2024 saw the lowest number of supported individuals since 1991. This trend of decreasing BAföG recipients reflects a broader regional demographic decline and shifting socio-economic factors.
The average monthly support amount for students in 2024 was €675, and for school students, it was €510. Notably, the monthly support amount per person in 2024 was €8 less than the previous year, representing a 5.0% decrease.
Another significant statistic is that 78.5% of all supported individuals did not live with their parents. However, detailed demographic data on recipients or the specific impact of the Study Start Grant on BAföG recipient numbers is not readily available.
For precise statistics on the reduction of BAföG recipients, their demographic profile in Saxony-Anhalt, and analysis of the Study Start Grant's implementation and effects, official publications from the Saxony-Anhalt ministry of education or BAföG administration would be the most authoritative sources.
As for the broader context, general knowledge up to 2025 suggests that the number of BAföG recipients in Saxony-Anhalt has been decreasing in recent years due to demographic changes such as a declining student population and changes in eligibility criteria.
Personal-finance in the realm of education and self-development has seen a shift in Saxony-Anhalt, with the introduction of the Study Start Grant catering to students under challenging financial conditions or without prior financial independence. This grant, worth €1,000, supplements or complements the Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG), and was awarded to 238 individuals in 2024.
