studentin

Studentin is a German noun for a female student. It designates a person, typically enrolled at a university or other higher education institution, who pursues an academic degree. The term is the feminine form of the masculine noun Student, formed by adding the suffix -in, which marks feminine agent nouns in German. The plural is Studentinnen.

Usage and nuances: Studentin explicitly marks gender and is common in academic, educational, and media language when referring to a female student. In neutral or inclusive contexts, many speakers prefer Studierende or Lernende, terms that do not specify gender.

Grammar and forms: Singular feminine article and case endings follow standard German declension, e.g., die Studentin (nominative), der Studentin (genitive/dative), die Studentin (accusative). The corresponding masculine form is Student; the plural is die Studentinnen. In modern language planning, use of gender-neutral alternatives is increasingly encouraged in official communication and institutions.

Regional note: The word is used across German-speaking countries, including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, though preferences for gender-neutral language can vary by region and institution.

See also: Studierende, Student, Schülerin, Lernende.