34 years at university—and then no more housing allowance: Court sets clear limit

Image: AlexandrMusuc / Shutterstock.com

A life as a perpetual student—and suddenly the support stops. A man from Schleswig-Holstein was enrolled at university for over three decades, most recently in a second degree program. He received housing benefits for his own home for several years. As reported by NDR, he has now lost his case before the Schleswig Administrative Court after payments were discontinued in 2022. The judges ruled that after 68 semesters, the limit had been reached.

Now over 60 years old, he initially studied economics for almost three decades and graduated in 2016. He then re-enrolled, this time to study philology. During this time, he received a subsidy for his living expenses for around five years. When the authorities stopped the benefit, he took the matter to court—without success.

No permanent entitlement to support

Housing allowance is a form of assistance for people on low incomes, enabling them to pay their rent or mortgage. The decisive factors are financial circumstances and living situation. Being a student does not automatically exclude you from receiving this allowance.

However, in this specific case, the court ruled that the requirements were no longer met. With a total of 68 semesters, it could no longer be assumed that the studies were being pursued seriously and with the aim of obtaining a degree. The decisive factor was therefore not only enrollment, but also the question of whether a clear educational purpose was still apparent.

In addition, it was reasonable to expect the plaintiff to earn his own living. Anyone who is able to work must, in principle, also pay for their own rent and living expenses.

Second degree under special observation

The fact that this was a further degree after already having obtained a degree played an important role. Continuing education is permitted and socially desirable. However, state benefits are not a given when someone returns to university after decades.

Although there is no fixed maximum duration for studying under housing benefit law, courts nevertheless base their decisions on whether a course of study is still being pursued with a specific goal in mind or has become more of a permanent state of affairs. This is precisely where the court drew the line.

Personal responsibility instead of endless loops

The ruling makes it clear that social benefits are not a permanent solution for an indefinitely extended student life. At some point, the expectation that someone will provide for themselves prevails—especially after they have already earned a university degree.

The case is unusual because hardly anyone remains enrolled for so many semesters. Nevertheless, the decision sends a strong signal. It shows that courts are carefully examining whether state support still serves its purpose.

A critical look

Education should not be a privilege reserved for younger people. A late start in life also deserves respect. However, it is also true that public funds are limited and should be used to facilitate transitions, not to secure lifestyles indefinitely.

The court has taken a clear stance—in favor of personal responsibility. Whether this seems harsh or consistent depends on your point of view. One thing is certain: those who study can hope for support. But not without limits—and certainly not forever.

Source: ndr.de