Deutsches Studierendenwerk is signing a joint petition calling for the actual implementation of the BAföG reform announced in the coalition agreement. The alliance—comprising the DSW, fzs, DGB, GEW, and ver.di—demands:
- Standard allowance rates and the housing cost allowance must reflect the reality of living costs—no BAföG payments below the poverty line.
- Income exemptions regarding parental income must be significantly increased.
- Automatic and regular adjustment of standard allowance rates, housing cost allowances, and exemption thresholds in line with inflation and income trends.
- Full digitization of the application, processing, and approval procedures.
- Drastic simplification of application forms and an extension of approval periods.
- Adequate funding for student services organizations (Studierendenwerke) and BAföG administration offices.
