Overview

• ARD ZDF Deutschlandradio Beitragsservice says exemptions open with the winter semester 2025/26, with forms available at rundfunkbeitrag.de.
• Based on KMK forecasts and official statistics, roughly 66,000 new first‑semester students could qualify this winter.
• The exemption covers only the applicant and their spouse or registered partner and children, not other roommates in a shared flat.
• Eligibility requires an independent household, so students living with parents cannot free the parental home from the contribution.
• Approved relief ends after the period stated in the notice unless a follow‑up application is filed, and the fee currently stands at €18.36 per month.