The University of Bonn is a public university, meaning that it does not charge tuition fees. However, all students must pay the so-called social contribution (or semester fee) once per semester, the amount of which is democratically agreed on by student representatives. In addition, each student will face individual living expenses for rent, food, telephone/internet, learning materials, leisure activities, etc. Students at the University of Bonn must pay a social contribution every semester, the amount of which is democratically agreed on by student representatives. Over half of the semester fee is used to finance student transit passes. Around one third goes to the Studierendenwerk, which, for example, is involved in maintaining the canteens, providing accommodation for students or organizing educational support/grants.