The “Student Survey in Germany” is a scientific trend study that provides insights into the students' living and study situation in Germany. The survey integrates three previously separate surveys, namely the Social Survey, the Student Survey, and the study "best - Studying with Impairments". To date, the Student Survey is the broadest and most differentiated survey in Germany. The integrated survey also supplies the German data for EUROSTUDENT. The obtained data is not only a valuable and important source of information for the monitoring of higher education policy but also for the scientific community's work. The wide range of topics covered by the survey allows for differentiated analyses of issues related to the students’ life. Beside the social and economic situation, the study focuses on the study situation of students, the students’ attitudes and commitment, as well as the students' educational goals. The study further concentrates on questions about the diversity of the student population in Germany and the social disparities that may be associated with this. Another essential topic area is the special situation of students with health impairments.
The data collected through this nationwide survey constitutes a valuable data and information source for higher education policy monitoring and the empirical research on higher education and students. Its broad thematic scope allows for in-depth analyses of topics related to key aspects of student life — from social and economic conditions to study situation, attitudes, engagement and educational aspirations. A particular focus lies on the special challenges faced by students with health impairments.
The survey was conducted for the first time in the summer semester of 2021 and will take place every four years in the future. The current wave was surveyed in in the summer semester of 2025.
The German Studierendenwerk (DSW) is a cooperation partner in the project.
