Fewer students are borrowing money, but loan amounts continue to rise

According to new data from the Nibud budget institute, the percentage of students taking out DUO loans has dropped from 22 percent two years ago to 15 percent in 2026. However, those who do borrow are requesting significantly larger amounts, with the average monthly loan increasing from 553 to 634 euros. While 58 percent of students report being able to manage their finances effectively, there is a growing divide between groups. Out-of-home students face greater financial vulnerability, especially as the number of students receiving parental contributions has declined from 68 percent in 2021 to 52 percent in 2026.

To compensate for lower parental support, students are working longer hours and earning more income, rising to an average of 654 euros per month. Despite this, experts warn of increased uncertainty regarding student financing and rising anxieties about how long-term debt may impact future mortgage applications. The number of students living independently has also decreased as many struggle to cover rising living costs independently.