Dropping out of university – for many, it feels like a failure. But it isn't. Over 30% of all students drop out, whether due to being overwhelmed, choosing the wrong course of study, depression, or financial problems. Dropping out isn't a dead end, but often the first step in the right direction.
The most important questions after dropping out of university: What happens to child benefits, student loans, and health insurance? How do I mention dropping out in my CV? What alternatives do I have? This article provides all the answers concisely and without beating around the bush.
The most important points in brief
- Child benefit ends if you drop out of university – inform the family benefits office immediately
- BAföG (German student loan program) is stopped; payments already received remain as interest-free loans.
- Health insurance ends within 14 days – arrange follow-up insurance!
- CV: Be honest, don't hide.
- Alternatives: vocational training, new studies, dual studies or starting a career
Immediate measures after dropping out of studies
After dropping out of university, time is of the essence. You MUST take these steps immediately:
Inform your health insurance provider about dropping out of your studies. You have 14 days to switch to follow-up insurance (family insurance under 25 or voluntary insurance). If you miss the deadline, you'll have to pay high retroactive premiums!
BAföG office, family benefits office (child benefit), student services organization (dormitory). Everyone needs to be informed immediately, otherwise they risk having to repay the money.
Training, new studies or a job? The faster you get your bearings, the smoother the transition.
Child benefit after dropping out of university
Child benefit ends in the month you are deregistered from university. Your parents automatically lose their entitlement. The family benefits office MUST be informed immediately – otherwise, they risk having to repay the money for months.
Child benefit payments continue in the following cases:
- Start of training: If you go directly into an apprenticeship (up to age 25)
- New course of study: Upon enrollment in a different course of study
- Unemployment: With registration at the employment office (limited)
BAföG after dropping out of studies
You do NOT have to repay BAföG you have already received – it remains an interest-free loan as usual. However, BAföG payments will be stopped immediately if you drop out of your studies.
New BAföG eligibility?
If you change to a different course of study, you can apply for BAföG again. The condition is that the change must be "immediately" and for a "compelling reason" (e.g., a change of interests in the 1st or 2nd semester).
Maintenance payments in case of university dropout
Parents are obligated to provide financial support during a student's "purposeful vocational training." If studies are discontinued without a valid reason, this support can be reduced or discontinued.
Maintenance payments continue in the case of:
- Changing your course of study: To a related subject (one-time, early on)
- Education: Transition from university studies to vocational training
- Illness: Study discontinuation due to demonstrable health problems
Dropping out of university on a CV
Honesty is essential. Employers check resumes and notice gaps immediately. Here's how to professionally address dropping out of university on your resume :
"10/2022 - 03/2024: Business Administration studies at the University of Hamburg (incomplete)"
With explanation (optional):
"...dropped out, switched to psychology due to changed career goals"
What you should NOT do:
- ❌ Concealing a study dropout (will be discovered during a background check)
- ❌ Falsifying time periods (punishable!)
- ❌ Exaggerated justifications (appear insecure)
Save your studies instead of dropping out?
Sometimes you just need the right support during critical exam phases.
Learn moreDropping out of university due to depression
Dropping out of university due to mental illness is not uncommon. Depression, anxiety disorders, and burnout are frequent reasons for leaving university – and absolutely no reason for shame.
What you should do if you have depression:
Important: Stabilize first, then decide. Do not make long-term decisions during acute phases of illness. In cases of severe depression , natural sedatives or medication can also be helpful.
Dropping out of university – what next? Your options
Option 1: Vocational training
Vocational training is a perfectly viable alternative. Practical work instead of theory, a salary instead of student loan debt, and after the training, all doors are open to you – including later university studies.
Option 2: New course of study
Switching to a different degree program is possible at any time. Credits already earned can often be transferred. Many successful people dropped out of their first degree program.
Option 3: Dual study program
It combines theory and practice. You earn money and, upon completion, have both a university degree and professional experience.
Option 4: Starting a career
You can work even without a degree. Many companies value career changers with practical experience. You can work your way up through further training.
Option 5: Take your bearings
A voluntary social year, a stay abroad, or internships can help with reorientation. Use the time to find out what you really want.
Check all options before canceling.
Sometimes, discreet support is the better way to go during critical exams.
Learn moreConclusion: Dropping out of university is not a failure
Dropping out of university feels tough, but it's often the right decision. Over 30% of all students drop out, and many are glad they did. It's important to act immediately (health insurance, child benefits, student loans), keep your CV honest, and plan your next steps concretely.
- Clarify your health insurance within 14 days!
- Inform the BAföG office and the child benefit office immediately.
- CV: Be honest, don't hide.
- Alternatives: Apprenticeship, new degree program, dual study program, job
- For depression: Stabilize first, then decide
"Dropping out of university is not a failure - it is the courageous decision to leave the wrong path in order to find the right one."
