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Learning German can be the way to unlock great opportunities in career advancement, academic pursuit, or even cultural exploration. However, it is…
How to Find Student Accommodation in Germany: A Complete Guide
Finding good accommodation in Germany as a student can be one of the tough but exciting phases of life in Germany. Thousands of foreign students come every year to continue their studies or higher education courses, so the market for student living is very broad, and getting accommodation in such places requires plenty of planning before arrival at the destination.
This guide will explain the various types of student accommodation in Germany, how to find them, budgeting tips, and insights into the most student-friendly cities in Germany.
Types of Accommodation in Germany
Germany offers various accommodation options for students, each with its advantages and disadvantages.
Student Dormitories (Wohnheime)
Student dormitories are one of the cheapest housing options in Germany. They are operated by Studentenwerk, the student services organization, and are only for students.
Pros:
Affordable (€250-€400 per month)
Close to universities
Social environment with other students
Cons:
High demand and long waiting lists
Little privacy
Rules may be strict
Shared Apartments (Wohngemeinschaft or WG)
The most common form of student accommodation in Germany is the shared apartment, widely known as WGs (Wohngemeinschaften). Here, students share rent and utilities, thus making this an economical choice.
Pros:
Less expensive than private apartments (€300-€600 monthly)
Stability in socialization with roommates
Flexible conditions on tenancy
Cons:
Competition for a suitable WG
Possibility of conflicts with roommates
Can have additional deposits and other expenses
Private Apartments
If you like being independent, you can rent a private apartment. These are costlier but guarantee full privacy and comfort.
Pros:
You get full independence and privacy.
You can choose your location and the amenities available.
Cons:
Expensive (€500-€1000 per month)
Deposit required (generally 2-3 months’ rent)
Finding a rental contract without Schufa (credit score) is challenging
Homestays
Some students prefer to live in homestays, where they reside with a German family. This is less common but, in practice, can be quite an immersion experience in the language and local culture.
Pros:
Cultural immersion
Meals are often included
Cons:
Less independence
Few places available
Type of Accommodation | Description | Average Monthly |
Student Dormitories (Wohnheime) | Affordable university-managed housing with shared facilities | €250 – €400 |
Shared Apartments (WG – Wohngemeinschaft) | Private room in a shared apartment with common areas | €300 – €600 |
Private Apartments | Independent living space, ideal for privacy | €500 – €1000+ |
Homestay | Living with a local family, sometimes with meals included | €400 – €800 |
Temporary Accommodation (Hostels/Hotels/Airbnb) | Short-term stays while searching for permanent housing | €30 – €80 per night |
How to find Accommodation in Germany
Accommodation for Students of Germany can be found only after thorough preparation and search. Here is how to find student accommodation in Germany:
Step 1: Starting Early
Due to the many students seeking rooms, especially those in big towns like Berlin and Munich, searching for a house early is usually advisable. Typically, it takes 3 to 6 months before moving date.
Step 2: Searching Online
Below are some sites that list apartments for students:
Studentenwerk (www.studentenwerke.de): This is a portal for searching official student accommodation.
WG-Gesucht (www.wg-gesucht.de) : Best for shared apartment.
Immobilienscout24 (www.immobilienscout24.de): Private apartments
HousingAnywhere (www.housinganywhere.com): Short-term rentals
Step 3: Check University Housing
Most German universities offer student housing through Studentenwerk. Apply as soon as possible because the spots get taken quickly.
Step 4: Check Local Newspapers and Facebook Groups
Most Germans still scan through local newspapers.
Facebook groups such as “WG & Wohnungen in [City Name]” are beneficial when finding a WG or shared apartment.
Step 5: Be Prepared with Required Documents
The landlords might need the following:
Student enrollment proof (Immatrikulationsbescheinigung)
Evidence of finances (bank statements or Blocked Account)
Schufa (credit check) for private lets
A guarantor (Bürgschaft) if you do not work
Step 6: Secure Your Accommodation Quickly
Once you find a place, move fast! There is a high demand, and places go quickly!
Popular Student Cities in Germany
Several cities are students’ friendly and present different benefits to the student population.
1. Berlin
Berlin is among the most preferred cities for studying in Germany because of its affordability to live. This city boasts many international universities with a diversity of student life, making it the most favored by students.
Average price to rent from €350-€800.
- Munich
Munich is home to the best institutions, such as LMU and TUM and boasts an exceptionally high quality of life. This comes at the price of Germany’s most expensive student city.
Average rent prices: € 500- € 1200 per month
3. Hamburg
Hamburg is a harbor city with some excellent job chances. It combines vibrant culture, modern architecture, and history.
Average rent prices are: €400-€ 900 per month
4. Frankfurt
Frankfurt is the financial hub of Germany. It is suitable for students interested in business and economics. There are excellent job opportunities and a modern city life.
Average rent ranges from €500 to €1100 per month.
5. Leipzig
Leipzig is one of the cheapest student cities in Germany. It has an artistic and cultural scene that appeals to young minds.
Average rent ranges from €250 to €600 per month.
Budgeting and Costs for Accommodation in Germany
Knowing accommodation costs in Germany is very important for effective budgeting.
1. Average Rent in Germany
Student Dorms: €250-€400 per month
Shared Apartments (WG): €300-€600 per month
Private Apartments: €500-€1000 per month
- Additional Costs
Utilities (electricity, water, internet): €50-€150 per month
Deposit: 2-3 months’ rent
TV and Radio Tax (Rundfunkbeitrag): €18.36 per month
3. Money-Saving Tips
Apply for student dorms early to get the lowest rent.
Live in smaller cities like Leipzig or Dresden instead of expensive ones like Munich or Frankfurt.
Share an apartment (WG) to split costs.
Check for university housing subsidies and scholarships.
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Conclusion
Accommodation for a student in Germany might be competitive, but with the right planning and research, one can manage to settle in a very comfortable place. Whether you prefer student dorms, shared apartments, or private housing, it is good to know all the options available, the cost, and the best cities for students in Germany.
Start your housing search early, use online platforms, and stay flexible in your options. With the right approach, you’ll find the perfect student accommodation in Germany to support your academic journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How to find accommodation in Germany as a student?
Make full use of a university dorm and look for websites such as WG-gesucht, local papers, and some Facebook groups.
What kind of accommodations are the most common?
Dormitories (in Germany normally for foreign people), shared WG, private apartments, and host families.
Which are the most popular cities for students in Germany?
Berlin, Munich, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Leipzig are top student cities.
How can I find a place to live quickly in Germany?
Start early, use multiple platforms, apply for dorms, and have documents ready.