There can be many reasons for not getting BAföG (German student aid). That said, even filling out the BAföG application alone can take a lot of energy and nerves. Anyone who has been through it before will surely understand. Or is your BAföG application also sitting half-finished in a drawer, and you're stuck? Then maybe you have been asking yourself for a long time: "How to pay for college without BAföG?" There must be an easier way. And yes, we have collected a few tips and suggestions that we want to share with you here.

The first idea for how to pay for college without BAföG:

Did you raise your eyebrows reading the intro? Filling out applications is no problem and totally easy for you? Great! Then offer your help! At college you meet a lot of people and most universities have a bulletin board. Offer your help for cash. Help with filling out applications and earn a few bucks on the side.

The second idea:
Your fellow students all know how to fill them out themselves? Maybe they aren't as sharp in other areas and could use some tutoring from you. That works in your favor too, of course, because teaching others also cements your own knowledge. A win-win situation.

The third idea:

How to pay for college without BAföG

Is your far-too-small apartment bursting at the seams? Then you could sell things. Through all sorts of platforms you can sell all kinds of items. From junk to clothing to electronics, anything goes. And let's be honest, who doesn't have an old phone lying around at home that they could sell? A new owner will surely be happy.

All right, but if you are asking yourself "How to pay for college without BAföG?" dthen you are more likely looking for a higher and also regular income. Let's see what other options are out there.

The fourth idea:
Have you sold everything from your apartment except the bare essentials? Great, then you now have room for a roommate. Either as a shared flat, meaning a permanent roommate, or you can offer your couch to travelers for shorter stays, for example. With the right search you'll find something there too. There are a number of platforms that connect hosts and guests.

The fifth idea if you ask me: "How to pay for college without BAföG?"

Get a job. What else did you think was coming here? You can of course also play the lottery and hope, but a job is more reliable. Waiting tables, delivering newspapers, kitchen helper, cleaning. On the internet you can also find so-called microjobs. For example as a copywriter or photographer. There are some reputable providers, but even there you have to work your way up, and at the start you earn only a micro-income.