Scholarships and Financial Aid for Students in Luxembourg

The cost of higher education can represent a significant investment for students and their families. Tuition, housing, textbooks, transportation, and daily living expenses: costs vary widely depending on the country of study and the type of program chosen.

To ensure access to higher education regardless of a family’s financial resources, Luxembourg has established a financial aid system called AideFi (State Financial Aid for Higher Education). This program allows eligible students to receive grants and, if they wish, a government-guaranteed student loan.

Whether you’re studying in Luxembourg or abroad, and whether you’re a resident or a cross-border student (under certain conditions), this guide will help you understand the main forms of financial aid available to fund your higher education.

Before applying for financial aid, it’s recommended that you identify the program best suited to your goals. Check out our guide to higher education in Luxembourg to learn about the universities, BTS programs, and specialized schools available after high school.

What financial aid is available to fund higher education?

Luxembourg has adopted a model that promotes student independence. Unlike some countries where financial aid is directly tied to parental income, the Luxembourg system relies primarily on the student themselves and their academic plans.

Financial aid can take several forms:

• non-repayable grants;
• a government-guaranteed student loan;
• partial coverage of tuition fees;
• in some cases, additional financial aid provided by municipalities or specific organizations.

The final amount depends on the student’s circumstances, their place of study, household income, and several criteria set forth in the regulations.

AideFi: Luxembourg’s Main Student Financial Aid Program

State Financial Aid for Higher Education (AideFi) is the central mechanism for supporting students. It provides funding for higher education pursued in Luxembourg or in another recognized country.

The aid is awarded per academic semester. An application must be submitted for each semester, even if enrollment at the institution is on an annual basis.

How does AideFi work?

AideFi is structured as a modular system. Depending on the student’s situation, several components can be combined to tailor the aid to the recipient’s actual needs.

The aid may thus include:

• a basic grant;
• a mobility grant;
• a means-tested grant;
• a family grant;
• an additional grant to cover tuition fees;
• a government-guaranteed student loan.

The Different Components of AideFi

Not every eligible student necessarily receives all components of the program. Some are awarded automatically, while others depend on specific criteria related to family circumstances or academic history.

The Basic Grant

The basic grant forms the foundation of the program. It is automatically awarded to any student who meets the general eligibility requirements for AideFi.

Its purpose is to provide every student with a minimum level of financial support to pursue their higher education.

The Mobility Grant

The mobility grant is designed to support students who are pursuing their studies in a country other than the one where their household resides and who must pay rent for their student housing.

It applies in particular to many Luxembourgish students who choose to pursue their studies in France, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, or other European countries.

The Need-Based Grant

This supplemental aid takes into account the resources of the student’s household. The amount varies depending on the household’s taxable income and can provide significant support for families with modest incomes.

Depending on the situation, part of this assistance may be converted into a student loan when certain income thresholds are exceeded.

The Family Grant

The family grant is intended for households with several children simultaneously pursuing higher education eligible for AideFi. It takes into account the additional financial burden borne by these families.

Inclusion of Tuition Fees

Tuition fees can represent a significant expense, particularly at certain universities or private schools abroad. The AideFi system provides for a specific supplement that covers a portion of these expenses within certain limits set by regulations.

This coverage is divided between a portion paid as a grant and a portion that may be granted as a student loan.

Why use the official AideFi simulator?

The exact amount of financial aid depends on many factors: family situation, country of study, household income, tuition fees, student housing, and the number of children pursuing higher education.

To get a personalized estimate, the Ministry of Research and Higher Education provides an official simulator that allows you to quickly assess the financial aid for which you may be eligible.

This simulator is generally the best place to start before preparing an official application.

Who is eligible for AideFi?

AideFi is available to many students, but eligibility requirements vary depending on whether the student is a resident or non-resident of Luxembourg.

The criteria were designed to take into account the high mobility of Luxembourgish students and cross-border workers who contribute to the country’s economy.

Students residing in Luxembourg

Students residing in Luxembourg are generally eligible for AideFi when pursuing recognized higher education studies, either in Luxembourg or abroad.

To be eligible, the student must, in particular:

• be enrolled in a recognized higher education program;
• be pursuing their studies full-time or, in certain cases, part-time;
• meet the administrative requirements set forth in the regulations;
• submit their application by the specified deadline.

Studies may be pursued at a Luxembourg institution or at a recognized foreign university.

Cross-border and non-resident students

Luxembourg is one of the few European countries that allows certain non-resident students to benefit from its financial aid system.

This option primarily applies to the children of cross-border workers who are employed in Luxembourg.

Specific conditions apply, particularly regarding the length of time the parent has been enrolled in the Luxembourg social security system.

These rules are subject to change. It is therefore advisable to verify your eligibility directly with the relevant authorities before submitting an application.

Self-Supporting Students

In certain specific situations, a student may be considered financially independent from their household of origin. Specific rules then allow for an assessment of their eligibility based on their personal circumstances.

These cases particularly concern certain students who have already been employed or who are financially independent.

Is financial aid available for studying abroad?

Yes. The Luxembourg system is designed to support students, regardless of where they study, as long as the program they are enrolled in meets the established eligibility criteria.

This is largely due to the tradition of academic mobility among Luxembourg students.

Studying in France, Belgium, or Germany

Many students continue their studies in neighboring countries while receiving financial aid from Luxembourg.

French, Belgian, and German universities are among the most popular destinations.

Studying in another European country

Financial aid may also be granted for studies pursued in other European countries, provided that the institution and program are recognized in accordance with applicable regulations.

Studying Outside Europe

Certain programs of study pursued outside the European Union may also be eligible. The conditions vary depending on the country and the type of institution involved.

Before enrolling, it is recommended that you verify the eligibility of your intended program with the relevant authorities.

How do I apply for AideFi?

Applications for financial aid are submitted entirely online. Luxembourg has simplified the process through the MyGuichet.lu platform, which allows students to submit and track their applications securely.

Preparing Your Application Before Submitting

Before beginning the application process, it is advisable to gather all the necessary documents. Depending on your situation, several supporting documents may be required.

The most commonly required documents are:

• proof of enrollment at a higher education institution;
• documents regarding family status;
• proof of household income;
• information regarding student housing;
• proof of tuition fees, when applicable.

Submit your application via MyGuichet.lu

The application must be submitted directly on the MyGuichet.lu platform.

This process allows you to:

• you to complete the form online;
• submit supporting documents;
• track the status of your application;
• to receive notifications regarding the decision.

Electronic authentication is generally required to access all of the platform’s features.

What are the deadlines for submitting an application?

Since AideFi is awarded on an academic semester basis, a separate application must be submitted for each semester.

Application deadlines are published annually by the Ministry of Research and Higher Education. Generally, applications must be submitted:

• no later than November 30 for the winter semester. The form is available starting in early August on guichet.lu
• no later than April 30 for the summer semester. The form is available starting in early January.

It is strongly recommended that you plan ahead to avoid any delays in processing your application.

How can you find out how much you might be eligible for?

Calculating financial aid is relatively complex because it takes many factors into account: family situation, income, country of study, tuition fees, mobility, and the number of children pursuing higher education.

To get a personalized estimate, the ministry provides an official simulator that is available free of charge.

This simulator helps students plan their studies and more accurately assess the financial resources they will have available during their program.

However, it does not replace the official decision, which will be made after a comprehensive review of the application.

Student Loans in Luxembourg

In addition to scholarships, the Luxembourg system also offers a student loan to help finance part of a student’s higher education.

This loan is an integral part of the AideFi program and may be granted depending on the student’s circumstances. In particular, it helps cover certain study-related expenses when scholarships are insufficient to fund the entire academic program.

Why Consider a Student Loan?

A student loan can be a good option for:

• financing student housing;
• covering high tuition fees;
• covering certain expenses related to international mobility;
• supplementing financial aid already received.

Unlike a scholarship, a loan must be repaid according to the terms set by the lender.

Housing is often the biggest expense for students studying away from home. Be sure to check out our guide to student housing in Luxembourg to help you plan your budget.

Before taking out a loan

It is advisable to carefully assess your financial needs and prioritize non-repayable financial aid whenever possible. A realistic budget often helps limit the need to take out a loan.

You can also contact Luxembourg banks to find out the terms for obtaining a student loan.

Is there other financial aid available for students?

In addition to AideFi, certain supplementary forms of financial aid may be available depending on the student’s situation, place of residence, or educational institution.

Municipal Assistance

Some municipalities in Luxembourg provide one-time grants or financial assistance to students residing within their jurisdiction.

Eligibility requirements, amounts, and application procedures vary from one municipality to another. It is therefore recommended that you contact your municipality of residence directly for more information.

Financial Aid Offered by Certain Institutions

Some universities or colleges may also offer specific support programs, merit-based scholarships, or one-time grants designed to support their students.

The eligibility criteria depend on each institution.

European and international programs

Students participating in an international mobility program, such as Erasmus+, may also be eligible for additional financial support to cover part of the costs associated with their stay abroad.

Special cases: cross-border students, career change, and returning to school

Academic paths are becoming increasingly diverse. Some students return to school after several years of professional work or pursue part-time programs.

Eligibility requirements for financial aid may vary depending on these specific circumstances.

Cross-border students

Children of cross-border workers may, under certain conditions, be eligible for Luxembourg financial aid. The applicable criteria depend, in particular, on the employment status of the parent working in Luxembourg.

Returning to School

Individuals wishing to return to school after initial work experience may also be eligible for certain programs depending on their personal circumstances and the program they plan to pursue.

It is advisable to verify your eligibility before enrolling in a new program.

Finance your higher education with peace of mind

Thanks to the financial aid system established by Luxembourg, many students can pursue higher education in Luxembourg or abroad under favorable conditions.

Planning ahead, carefully preparing your application, and getting informed early enough will help you approach your academic journey with greater peace of mind.

Financial aid provides valuable support, but it is also part of a broader consideration that includes your choice of program, housing, budget, and career prospects.

FAQ on Scholarships and Financial Aid for Students in Luxembourg

Who is eligible for AideFi?

Students residing in Luxembourg and certain non-resident students—particularly the children of cross-border workers—may be eligible for AideFi under certain conditions.

Can you receive financial aid to study abroad?

Yes. Luxembourg financial aid may be granted for studies pursued in Luxembourg or at a recognized institution abroad.

Are the children of cross-border workers eligible for Luxembourg scholarships?

Yes, under certain conditions related, in particular, to the parent’s employment in Luxembourg.

Does AideFi have to be repaid?

Scholarships are non-repayable. However, the portion granted as a student loan must be repaid according to the established terms.

Can you receive a scholarship and have a part-time job at the same time?

Yes, provided you comply with the rules applicable to your situation. Having a part-time job does not automatically disqualify you from receiving financial aid.

How do I apply for AideFi?

Applications are submitted online via the MyGuichet.lu platform. The required supporting documents must be submitted by the specified deadlines.

Is there a calculator to estimate the amount of financial aid?

Yes. The official AideFi calculator provides a personalized estimate based on your situation.

Do municipalities provide financial aid to students?

Some municipalities offer specific financial aid or grants. The eligibility requirements vary depending on your municipality of residence.

Can you receive financial aid for a master’s degree abroad?

Yes, provided that the program meets the eligibility criteria set forth in Luxembourg regulations.

When should you submit your scholarship application?

Applications must be submitted for each academic semester by the deadlines published by the relevant authorities.

Guides to consult when planning your higher education

• Higher Education in Luxembourg: Universities, BTS Programs, and Other Courses
• Finding student housing in Luxembourg
• Finding a part-time job
• Preparing for your career in Luxembourg
• Understanding the Luxembourg education system