ENGLISH TAUGHT PROGRAMS IN GERMANY BACHELORS AND MASTERS
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.
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 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 or student dormitories (Studentenwohnheim) is something the students prefer most because it's affordable. They are residential complexes that are shared among the students.
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.
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.
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.
Wohngemeinschafts (WGs) are private flats or houses that are shared by several people, mostly students or young professionals.
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 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 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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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:
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:
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.
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.
