Germany being a famous study destination for students from all over the world, accommodation and residence is a considerable problem that international students might face when they move to Germany.
There are two kinds of accommodation you can get in Germany as a student. The economical option – student unions’ residence halls and private housing tend to be more costly than the first option. German halls of residence are used by 10 per cent of the student population. By way of comparison, 29 per cent of all German students share flats, 17 per cent live alone in a flat, and 20 per cent live with a partner.
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How to find accommodation in Germany as a student?
Finding a place to stay in Germany is very challenging for people who are already out of Germany. That is why most of Germany’s international students wait for it up until they can explore their options for private accommodation in person.
This does not include cases of applying for a place in the hall of residence. This is done entirely online. It is counselled to be done right after the acceptance in studies.
A private place for residence
There are plenty of available private places waiting to be rented, but only a few are entirely furnished and functional for people to live in. Many apartments and rooms lack being usable, as of needing housing equipment and renovations that you might not know about.
Visiting in person for available places for rent, so considering and comparing offers is the safe way to invest money in the rent without disappointing later.
Accommodation for international students for the first few days
Accommodation in temporary means until finding the permanent place of stay in Germany is a widespread practice among international students.
Temporary accommodation options for students in Germany are:
- Low-cost hostels
- Youth hostels – but you have to be a member of the national association of the International Youth Hostel Federation by paying a small fee.
- Private B&B – private rooms of people advertising online use “Privatzimmer” (private room) + your location to find them online
- Guesthouse (pension)
How to find a place to stay as an international student?
Here are a few things you should do before moving to Germany to ease the process and find yourself in the last moment rush.
- Find a temporary option of accommodation early enough before travelling to Germany – so you can stay there until finding the right permanent place.
- Before arriving in Germany do not forget to arrange your transportation from the airport or train station to your temporary place and do not forget to write down in a letter to take with you the name and address of the site you need to reach.
- When arriving in Germany, take the time to stop by the International Office, which can help you with information about available student-friendly places for rent nearby.
- Once in Germany, and you want to get accommodated more inexpensively, request a place in the halls of residence by applying online at the student union “Studierendenwerk” of the city where you will be studying.
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Cost of accommodation
Most international students have to spend 900 euros on a residence, says DAAD statistics. International students in Germany tend to spend about 298 euros every month on their accommodation, apart from living costs. Those living by cheaper accommodation options are prone to spend about 218 euros for the same period, counting the living costs.
Low-cost options for residence
According to statistics, over 40% of international students choose low-cost accommodation options during their stay in Germany. Below we have discussed a low-cost alternative for residence.
Student halls of residence
Halls of residence remain the cheapest option for the accommodation of students in Germany. This accommodation form is highly demanded by first-year students as well as international students.
The low monthly investment is not the only feature attractive about getting a place in residence halls. International students have an enjoyable request for this type of accommodation to lower their cost, and equally, the opportunity to have more excellent socialisation. Student halls are usually located near the university campus and promise a more significant social interaction than private accommodation.
Private accommodation
Means to accommodate on a personal basis as a student in Germany are:
Apartment for one person
This is when you decide to rent the entire apartment privately, wholly for yourself—having to deal with rent and utility costs on your means a bigger chance to spend a lot of money for accommodation. This also implies having a more significant private space and noiselessness. Living with no one in a foreign country means less possibility of interacting with native students and other international students.
Flatshare
This is an intelligent way to accommodate Germany, as about 30% of the international students in Germany apply it.
Living in a flatshare, the student has to share the exact flat, utility costs and rent. People must share the kitchen, bathroom, balcony, and living room in this accommodation type. Yet there is a space for privacy as each of them usually has their bedroom.
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FAQs
Q1. How do I apply for social housing in Germany?
Ans. To qualify for housing benefit, you need to fulfil the following requirements:
- You live in Germany with a valid residence permit (if applicable).
- Students rent an apartment or a room, or you have bought a house or apartment.
- You are registered at the same address.
Q2. How much is accommodation in Germany?
Ans. Students pay between 290 and 560 euros per month for accommodation, depending on their higher education institution.
We truly hope we were able to resolve any queries you might have had.
Good luck!