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Housing for students in Germany

Browse Student Accommodations

The first step after confirming your university in Germany is to find accommodation where you can call home. Housing options in Germany are not short but by knowing your choices well can smooth your process in finding you a cozy space to live.

If you still have no clue about the accommodation options abroad, here you can find all the information you need to know. Scroll down to know the details on the German housing types, how to read a rental contract, cost, how to apply, and more. 

<p>The first step after confirming your university in Germany is to find accommodation where you can call home. Housing options in Germany are not short but by knowing your choices well can smooth your process in finding you a cozy space to live.</p>

<p>If you still have no clue about the accommodation options abroad, here you can find all the information you need to know. Scroll down to know the details on the German housing types, how to read a rental contract, cost, how to apply, and more. </p>

Different Student Housing Options in Germany

Mainly there are two types of student accommodations in Germany. The first option is student dormitories which is the economical one and the second option is private accommodation which is the pricier option. There are many options for each of them. Some might be cheaper, some might offer more independence, and others.

The list of common housing options for international students in Germany:

Student Halls of Residence (Dormitories)

Student halls of residence or student dormitories (Studentenwohnheim) is something the students prefer most because it's affordable. They are residential complexes that are shared among the students. Most of the German dormitories are run by local student unions like “Studentenwerk” or “Studierendenwerk”. Over 196,000 vacants are available nationwide, which are given on the first come first serve basis. These dormitories are a single furnished room, in an apartment which will be shared by two or more students. The kitchen, bathroom , and other common facilities will be shared among other students.

Below are some of the benefits and drawbacks of living in student dormitories in Germany:

Student Halls of Residence
(Dormitories)
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Student halls of residence or student dormitories (Studentenwohnheim) is something the students prefer most because it's affordable. They are residential complexes that are shared among the students.

Pros
  • Low-cost: The most affordable accommodation options are dorms. The rent of a room can be around 266 euros per month on average.
  • Walkable distance to campus: Usually dorms are located near the campus; less travel money and less time.
  • Easy socializing: The dormitories are the best place to meet new people. Students here host small parties in their dorms or building’s common area.
  • Good amenities: The student halls are designed in a modern way. Other than basic amenities it will have communal spaces, laundry facilities, and kitchens with utensils. 
Cons
  • High demand: To get a dorm can be competitive because almost 40% of international students choose this. 
  • Shared spaces: Spaces like kitchen and bathroom are shared. Therefore this requires adjustment for students.
  • Early submission: Vacancy is limited so one must apply for the dorm as soon as they are confirmed at a university. Some students find this challenging.
  • Can’t choose dorm mates: Dorms are usually mixed-gender. Each student will be assigned randomly. You sure can make specifications, eg: girls only dorms etc.
How to locate and apply for a dorm in Germany

To apply for a student dorm in Germany, the first step is to get in touch with the local student services. The details of the registration will be listed in their website so you can contact them through mail. Your university’s International Office can also assist you in this.

Most dormitory services will have an online application, where you can send before 6 months. All you have to mention is the type of room you want, submit personal information (such as full name, date of birth, and passport details), and tick boxes with any specifications you may have (e.g. wheelchair access).

Most dormitories will only accept the people who are enrolled in nearby or partner universities, so you have to send your proof of acceptance to the university.

What is the fast accommodation offer (Schnellanschreiben)?

Rooms can become available in short notice. When such a situation happens, the owners will send mail with payment details to everyone in the waiting list. The first one to respond with payment confirmation gets the room.

Shared Apartments (WG)

Wohngemeinschafts (WGs) are private flats or houses that are shared by several people, mostly students or young professionals. In this accommodation, one will have a private bedroom and share common spaces such as living room, kitchen and bathroom.

You can share an apartment with anyone who you know or don’t know because it has online portals.

Shared Apartments
(WG)
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Wohngemeinschafts (WGs) are private flats or houses that are shared by several people, mostly students or young professionals.

Pros
  • Splitting the costs: When you share the rent and utilities, it reduces your monthly budget. You may even try to create a household monthly budget for food, supplies, etc.
  • Bonding is easier: This is best for creating good friendships as an international in Germany.
  • Built-in support: There will be someone to share a meal, to solve household issues, etc
Cons
  • Sharing common spaces: There can be privacy issues. Even though you will have a private room, you have to share the common spaces. This may lead to schedule clashes. 
  • Language barriers: Language and communication barriers can occur in the international WGs.
  • Different lifestyle and habits: The living habits might be different from your flatmate. For example, one may be a night owl and another might be an early bird.
How to spot a Student WG in Germany

If student WG is the right option for you, you can start browning for them before arriving in Germany. You can check into sites such as WG-Gesucht, Studenten-WG, and local Facebook Groups.

If you don’t receive responses or the listings are removed quickly, don’t be scared. These have high demand and it is sure to be patient enough to get one. So make sure to apply to as many listings you can and keep refreshing to find the latest listings. When asked to write an introduction, make a good one and let it stand out. Once someone replies, set a video call or visit an appointment about the WG. And when both parties agree, check the rental agreement carefully and sign it.

Private Rentals

Private Rentals are something not chosen by the students with a limited budget. But if you prefer privacy, comfort, and a space of your own despite a high cost then you can go for this option. Private rentals are available in different sizes, styles, different neighborhoods etc.

Here are some of the pros and cons of renting a private apartment in Germany:

Private Rentals
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Private Rentals are something not chosen by the students with a limited budget. But if you prefer privacy, comfort, and a space of your own despite a high cost then you can go for this option.

Pros
  • Your own space: A space of your own means, you can have control of your living space. There won’t be a need to compromise your routine or lifestyle. 
  • Decorate to your liking: You can personalize your space according to your style. 
  • Flexible lease terms: They have flexible lease terms, so you can negotiate with the landlord the duration according to your academic or work plans.
Cons
  • Not budget friendly: They are highly expensive than student halls or dorms so one who is not working won’t be able to afford this.
  • Need more documents and requirements: Extra documents need to be submitted than usual. Such as proof of income and having a guarantor. Other risks will be language barriers which make it difficult to deal with landlords on rental agreements.
  • Extra responsibilities: You have to deal with all the responsibilities such as, household tasks, maintenance, utility bills etc. This can be overwhelming at times. 
How to find a Private Apartment in Germany

To begin your search for a private apartment, look into sites such as  ImmobilienScout24, Immowelt, and eBay Kleinanzeigen. After spotting a good space, arrange a viewing appointment with the owner. Then if you are selected, you will receive a contract to sign. Make sure to read it carefully before signing. The last step will be apartment handover (Wohnungsübergabe)- to receive the keys and to point out if any issues are there.

NOTE: Most rental places will be unfurnished and hence you will need to do it by yourself.

How much students have to spend in Germany for accommodation

International students spend almost €410 per month on rent which is excluding other living costs. So the expenses for accommodation is something you have to plan beforehand.

A thorough research on accommodation before coming to Germany will save you from a lot of troubles. 

Rent prices in the following bigger cities are higher compared to other cities:

  • Berlin
  • Munich
  • Frankfurt am Main
  • Cologne
  • Hamburg
How much students have to spend in Germany for accommodation
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International students spend almost €410 per month on rent which is excluding other living costs. So the expenses for accommodation is something you have to plan beforehand.

Student Halls of Residence
APPROX.
€266.83/MONTH
Shared Apartments
APPROX.
€363/MONTH
Private Apartments
APPROX.
€820/MONTH
Price of Student Halls of Residence

The most budget friendly is student housing with an average of €266.83 managed by Studierendenwerke. The cost differs according to the location, room type, and the amenities available. In smaller towns, you will find dorms at €180 per month and pricier cities or larger rooms can cost as high as €500 per month.

Price of Private Apartments

Renting an one bedroom apartment in Germany can cost around €820 per month.In other accommodations, the prices can vary with location. In city centers, rent is between €600 and €1,500 per month, averaging around €940. And in outside city centers the monthly rents range from €450 to €1,200, averaging about €700 monthly. 

How to avoid surprises before signing your contract

To not be surprised with any potential damages such as a broken sink, lack of furniture or other issues, it is advised to visit the room in person or ask them to send the latest pictures of the place.

Let’s check- out few things to keep in mind before renting in Germany:

  • Limited availability of furnished apartments: It’s tough to find furnished rooms and they are expensive as well. Therefore, it is good to find someone who is renting out their room.
  • Long-term contracts: Preferably landlords are up for long-term lease as it does not require frequent change in tenants. But, some are likely open to negotiation.
  • Possible rent hikes:   Some landlords might include clauses that allow them to raise the rent over time. If you have an Indexmiete ( index rent), your landlord has the right to increase the rent once a year to adjust the inflation. And if you have a Staffelmiete (Graduated rent), there will be a pre-determined amount (probably 2-4 %) increase  per year. So, make sure to read through the contract before signing. 
  • Language barriers in lease contracts: The lease contracts will be usually in German and landlords can include conditions you may not understand. Bringing along a translator will help you in understanding everything.
  • Less furniture: While you are searching for rentals, only floorboards in the place will be there without any furniture. Don’t be surprised by that because that’s how private rentals are. But for student dorms, the room will usually have a bed frame with mattress, a small desk, and a closet.

Where to stay in Germany before finding accommodation

Most of the international students choose temporary stays while looking for a permanent place to stay. The ones listed below are the common temporary accommodation options for international students in Germany:

Let’s check- out few things to keep in mind before renting in Germany:

  • Low-cost hostels
  • Youth-hostels (membership required)
  • Affordable hotels
  • Guest houses
  • Private bed and breakfast (B&B) accommodations (browse for “Privatzimmer” + location online)

You can find these in Booking.com, Hostelworld, and Airbnb. The German Youth Hostel Association (DJH) also indexes youth hostels in Germany. 

Tip: Don’t forget to book your accommodation online in advance before the travel date.

How much students have to spend in Germany for accommodation

Here are some essential terms and practices to familiarize yourself so you won’t be confused when finding accommodation in Germany:

Cold and Warm Rent

When renting accommodation in Germany, there are primarily two types of rent: "Kaltmiete" and "Warmmiete." Kaltmiete (cold rent) refers to the base rent for a room or apartment, excluding additional costs such as utilities (water, electricity, heating, internet, or cable).

Deposit

One must pay a “kaution” (deposit) at the beginning of rental. The deposit will be returned once you move out in good condition. If there are any damages caused and you don’t repair them, the owner can keep the deposit.

Utilities

Mostly, the rent for dorms will include utilities as well. In case if it doesn’t or you are living in another type of accommodation, you have to pay an extra amount each month for utilities (Nebenkosten) based on the usage. At the end of the year, your landlord will compare the actual costs (Nebenkostenabrechnung) with the payments you've made. After that, they will offer a refund or charge for any additional expenses, depending on the usage. Nebenkosten usually range from 15% to 30% on top of the Kaltmiete. This amount can vary so make sure to check each rental listing. Costs like phone bills and internet bills are very rarely included in Nebenkosten. This pay is usually sorted by yourself and you have to pay separately.

Common Terms and Abbreviations Related to Housing for Students in Germany
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  • Wohngemeinschaft (WG): Shared Apartment: A living arrangement where multiple people live together in a shared space, each having their own room.
  • Wohnung (Whg.):   Apartment: A living space within a building.
  • Nebenkosten (NK):   Additional Costs: Expenses like heating, water, and garbage collection covered in rental agreements.
  • Kaltmiete (KM):  Cold Rent: The basic rent for the apartment, excluding additional costs like utilities (Nebenkosten).
  • Warmmiete (WM): Warm Rent: The total rent, including basic rent and additional costs like utilities.
  • Kaution (KA) : Security Deposit: Payment made by tenants to cover potential damages or unpaid rent, refundable by the end of the lease if the place is left in good condition.
  • Zi or Zimmer : Room: Often seen in rental listings with numbers (e.g., 2 Zi, meaning a 2-room apartment).
  • WG-Zimmer : Room in a Shared Apartment: Refers to bedrooms in shared flats.
  • Zweck-WG/Keine Zweck-WG : Shared apartment to save money/to not solely save money: Zweck-WGs are common among working people who want to split the costs of living with someone out of necessity. If you see “Keine Zweck-WG” in a listing, it means that your flatmates are interested in socializing and becoming friends with each other.
  • Schlafzimmer (SZ): Bedroom
  • Wohnzimmer (WZ): Living Room
  • Einzelzimmer (EZ): Single Room
  • Mehrzimmer (MZ): Multiple Rooms 
  • Bad: Bathroom
  • Einbauküche: Fitted Kitchen: The apartment comes with a pre-installed kitchen.
  • Hausordnung: House Rules: Rules and regulations for residents in a building or apartment complex.
  • Kündigungsfrist:   Notice Period: The advance notice required for ending a tenancy, stated in rental contracts.
  •  Möbliert (Möbl.):  Furnished
  • Unmöbliert (Unmöbl.):  Unfurnished
  • Mieter: Tenant
  • Vermieter: Landlord