The Wilhelm Büchner University is a university of applied sciences that offers a wide range of bachelor's and master's programmes in the fields of technology, computer science, business, and media. It is known for its flexible study models, practical orientation, and individual support. Here, I will show you in detail what distance learning at WBH costs, how you can save on tuition fees, and how you can finance your studies at this private university.

Prices at a Glance

First, let me briefly show you the costs of individual programmes at WBH.

Here are the costs for bachelor's programmes:

Here are the costs for master's programmes:

By the way: On average, bachelor's programmes at WBH cost 12,787 euros in full-time studies or 238 euros monthly in part-time studies. Master's programmes cost on average 10,417 euros in full-time studies or 469 euros monthly in part-time models. You can find the costs for all individual WBH programmes and courses here.

Cost Structure

The costs for distance learning at Wilhelm Büchner University consist of various components that should be considered for comprehensive planning and budgeting. The costs include:

1. Monthly tuition fees: These are the core of the study costs and generally cover access to learning materials, online platforms, supervision by lecturers, and administrative support. The amount of fees varies depending on the programme and the chosen payment model (Standard, Comfort, Stretch). Tuition fees include the provision of study materials including software and their delivery, commentary, evaluation, and return of submitted assignments for the exercises, the formulation of assignments, exercises, corrections and return,the subject-specific pedagogical support by the tutors, personal study advice, use of the university's online services, and participation fees for the exercises, exams, and compulsory laboratories as defined in the examination schedule, as well as for the obligatory labs if included in the degree program, certificates, or Nano Degrees.
2. Materials: All necessary study materials are usually included in the tuition fees. However, additional materials beyond the standard offer may incur extra costs.
3. Costs for in-person phases: Some programmes may include on-site phases or block seminars that require travel to the university location or another venue. This entails costs for travel, accommodation, and meals. During the in-person phases, you also need to plan for your meal expenses, especially if you are away from home for several days. If you need to take time off work without pay for in-person phases, this represents an indirect cost factor.
4. Seminar fees: Attendance at mandatory in-person sessions is covered by tuition fees. Occasionally, the university may offer voluntary additional seminars that may incur fees.

Pricing Models and Payment Options

In the Sprint model, the monthly rate may be the highest, but you pay the least in total and can take 9 semesters without additional costs to complete your bachelor's degree.

When choosing the appropriate pricing model for distance learning at Wilhelm Büchner University, students have three options: Sprint, Standard, and Comfort. Each of these models is designed to cater to different needs and financial capabilities.

• The Sprint model is specifically designed for students who want to complete their studies as quickly and cost-effectively as possible. It offers an intensive study experience with the shortest payment period and the highest monthly rate, making it ideal for those willing to dedicate themselves fully to their studies and quickly enter the job market. The payment period, for example, is 36 months for a bachelor's degree.
• The Standard model offers a balanced approach between a reasonable monthly rate and a moderate payment period. It is aimed at students looking for a good balance between studies, work, and personal life without overextending themselves financially. The payment period, for example, is 48 months for a bachelor's degree.
• The Comfort model is ideal for students who prefer the lowest monthly burden possible and can afford or prefer a longer payment period. This model allows students to plan their studies with minimal monthly financial burden, spreading the total costs over a longer period. The payment period, for example, is 72 months for a bachelor's degree.

Each of these models is designed to accommodate different life situations and financial conditions of students. While the Sprint model is suitable for those who want to progress quickly through their studies and save costs, the Standard model offers a balanced solution. The Comfort model, on the other hand, minimises monthly expenses, making it an attractive option for students who prefer a longer financing period.

After the start of your studies, a switch to a different model is possible once and only for the first time three (3) months after the start of your studies. A change to a model with a longer payment period is free of charge. Changing to a model with a shorter payment period incurs a change fee of 650 euros. This fee must be paid within 30 days after changing the model. Upon switching, the already made payments are proportionally calculated based on the total contract amount (excluding graduation fees) of the old payment model. The new remaining amount to pay is determined by the outstanding proportional payments of the newly chosen payment model.

Early Termination of Study Contract

When terminating the study contract with Wilhelm Büchner University, students can terminate their contract for the first time six months after conclusion of the contract, at the end of the first half-year, with a notice period of six weeks without giving reasons.

After this initial phase, termination is possible at any time, with a notice period of three months. For programmes lasting less than 12 months, a notice period of three months applies regardless of the duration of the programme. An ordinary termination of Nano Degrees is not possible due to their short duration. If deregistration occurs for reasons other than successful completion of studies, both parties have the right to terminate the contract within four weeks of becoming aware, provided that the university has the right to terminate the contract if the student is responsible for the deregistration. Furthermore, the study contract ends automatically if the final exam is definitively failed.

The right to terminate for an important reason remains unaffected for both parties, including the right of students to terminate immediately under certain conditions, such as the university's withdrawal of admission. Termination must be in written form and only becomes valid upon receipt by Wilhelm Büchner University.

In the case of termination, only the study fees for the period of services rendered are payable. For the "Standard" and "Comfort" models, a final payment may be required, depending on the value of the services provided up to that point, due within 30 days after termination.

Financing

Studying at a private university like WBH is expensive. However, there are many ways to save on tuition fees and finance your studies. Here are the key possibilities:

Digital Study Materials Only

Those who prefer reading on-screen can save 5% of the tuition fees in the WB-distance study programme.

You can reduce your study costs by around 5% by opting for digital instead of printed study materials. This option not only offers financial benefits by saving on fees that would otherwise be incurred for printing and shipping materials but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly study as less paper is used.

The digital study materials, in the form of PDF and ePub files, are accessible through the university's online platform, providing students with the flexibility to access their resources anytime and anywhere. This facilitates learning on the go and aligns perfectly with the concept of distance learning, which emphasises flexibility and self-determination.

By choosing digital materials, students benefit not only from cost savings but also from the immediate availability of resources. Waiting times for printing and postal delivery are eliminated, which is particularly advantageous when starting a new study section immediately or needing quick access to resources for tasks and projects.

Recognition of Prior Learning

At Wilhelm Büchner University, students have the opportunity to have their previously acquired qualifications, such as previous degrees, professional certifications, or other competencies recognised. This recognition can lead to a reduction in study duration as previously acquired knowledge and skills are applied to the current programme. Consequently, students can reduce not only their study time but also the associated tuition fees through the recognition of prior learning.

The recognition process typically begins with the submission of relevant evidence regarding the prior learning to the university. This includes certificates, qualifications, or detailed descriptions of acquired competencies. The university then assesses these documents for their equivalence to the modules or achievements of the intended programme. Upon a positive evaluation, the prior learning is recognised, resulting in a corresponding adjustment of tuition fees and a reduction in study duration.

Example: You have successfully completed an advanced training course to become a State-certified business economist. For the Bachelor of Technical Business Management, you will be awarded 18 credits. Tuition fees for the Sprint variant are 12,813 euros, and through recognition, you not only save time but also around 1,281 euros.

BAföG

Special conditions apply for receiving BAföG for distance learning. Here are the key points summarised:

• Full-time Study: BAföG is only granted for distance learning completed in full-time. Part-time study or distance learning alongside employment generally does not meet the criteria for BAföG funding. However, all programmes at WBH are also offered full-time, even in the Comfort version.
• Income Limits: Monthly earnings must not exceed 450 euros. In addition, students' assets must not exceed 8,200 euros, with this exemption limit increasing for married individuals or students with children.
• Age Limits: The maximum age for BAföG recipients is 30 for bachelor's programmes and 35 for master's programmes.
• Residence Situation: The residence should not be with parents.

BAföG support for distance learning is restricted to the last 12 months of the programme. This means that students in a bachelor's programme typically lasting 36 to 42 months need to find alternative funding for 24 months. Additionally, proof of study progress after the fourth semester is required to confirm compliance with the standard study period.

There are certain circumstances under which an extension of BAföG support is possible, such as pregnancy or child-rearing, chronic or long-term illnesses, and disabilities.

KfW Student Loan

The KfW student loan is a significant source of financing for students in Germany who want to support their studies, including distance learning, flexibly and independently of their family's financial situation. This financing option is available to students of all disciplines enrolled at state-recognised universities in Germany and covers both full-time and distance study programmes.

The conditions of the KfW student loan are tailored to students' needs. The loan features a variable interest rate, regularly adjusted and fixed for the duration of the disbursement phase and a subsequent interest-free period. Students can receive between 100 euros and 650 euros monthly, depending on their individual needs.

Repayment of the loan begins six months after the final disbursement, with terms allowing for flexible repayment.

To be eligible for the KfW student loan, students must meet certain requirements. A maximum age of 44 at the time of application is set. The loan is available to German citizens, educational residents, and EU citizens who can demonstrate the necessary residence and work experience in Germany. Crucially, enrolment at a state-recognised university in Germany is a prerequisite.

The application process proceeds as follows:

1. Application: The application for a KfW student loan can be submitted online through the KfW website or at one of the distribution partners (usually banks).
2. Documents: The application requires proof of enrolment, a valid ID or passport, and possibly evidence of nationality.
3. Approval: After reviewing the documents and meeting all requirements, the loan is approved, and disbursement begins at the desired date.
4. Repayment: Loan repayment is flexible, starting six months after the end of the disbursement phase. Students can choose from various repayment plans.

More information can be found on the KfW website.

Employer Financing

Instead of the next pay raise, you could also negotiate for your employer to cover the costs of your distance learning at WBH!

Employers can finance the costs of distance learning in various ways. This includes direct payment of tuition fees, provision of study materials, or granting special leave for exams and intensive study periods. Some companies also offer a reimbursement program where employees initially bear the study costs and are reimbursed after successful completion. In some cases, a retention period is agreed upon, during which the employee must remain with the company after completing the studies.

To convince the employer to finance your education, it is crucial to highlight the benefits of distance learning both for the company and for personal development. The following steps can help:

1. Needs Analysis: Begin with an analysis of how distance learning can contribute to achieving the company's goals. Identify specific skills and knowledge that the study will provide and how they directly contribute to improving work processes, opening up new business areas, or enhancing the company's competitiveness.
2. Preparation of a Convincing Proposal: Create a detailed proposal outlining the study goals, the expected benefits for the company, the costs, and the study structure. Emphasise the flexibility of distance learning, which allows study and work to be reconciled, and present a plan on how you will continue to effectively fulfil your work tasks.
3. Personal Discussion: Seek a personal conversation with your manager or the HR department. Be prepared to answer questions and be open to adjustments to your proposal. It is important to show understanding of the company's perspective and communicate the benefits of distance learning clearly.
4. Demonstrate Engagement: Demonstrate your commitment and willingness to invest in your professional development. This can be done by sharing the costs, being willing to accept a retention period, or by providing a learning and time management plan.
5. Show Long-term Perspective: Clarify how distance learning strengthens your long-term commitment to the company and how you plan to leverage your new knowledge and skills for the benefit of the business.

By highlighting the added value of your distance learning for the company and presenting a clear, well-thought-out strategy, you can persuade your employer to invest in your education. It is important to emphasise the win-win situation for both sides and show your willingness to contribute to mutual success.

Tax

In the German tax system, claiming tax deductions for distance learning can lead to significant cost savings. Depending on the personal tax rate, this can mean that up to 42% of the tuition fees can be refunded. The usual requirement for this is employment and an income above the basic tax-free allowance, so that income tax is paid.

A key point in the deductibility of taxes is whether the costs of distance learning can be classified as professional outlay or special outlay. Professional outlay is relevant for those undergoing professional further education, while special expenses mainly apply to initial education and school qualifications.

Deductible costs include tuition fees, expenses for specialist literature and work materials, travel costs to attendance events, and other expenses directly related to the course. It is important that all expenses can be proven, which is why consistent collection of receipts is essential.

Conclusion

• The cost structure at WBH is transparent and easy to understand, providing prospective students with a clear overview of costs. The tuition fees include the provision of study materials, the commentary, evaluation, and return of submitted assignments for tasks, the academic-pedagogical support by tutors, personal study counseling, use of the university's online services, and participation fees for mandatory exercises, exams, and accompanying tests as well as obligatory laboratories as defined in the examination schedule.
• Various pricing models are offered, allowing students to choose the most suitable financing option for them. In all 3 pricing models (Sprint Model, Standard Model, and Stretch Model), the standard study period is the same.
• Funding opportunities, such as BAföG, KfW student loans, and employer financing, offer diverse ways to financially support studies. Due to the high interest rates, a KfW student loan is currently not recommended.
• The option of an early contract termination provides additional flexibility and security for students.