After getting the admission letter and German student visa to study at a German University, students need to seek out accommodation in Germany and organize it based on their preferences and needs. It is important to note that the budget for accommodation in Germany has increased as most universities in Germany have abolished tuition fees. Still, it is always beneficial to plan your accommodation type and budget. Not all universities offer on-campus accommodation, so students usually choose the accommodation that suits them best. To make your search for accommodation in Germany easier, we have put together in this blog all the information you need to make a decision.
How should you start searching for accommodation?
In Germany, finding accommodation for international students can be a difficult task, especially if you are new to the country. Therefore, most of the students wait and explore as many options as they can until they find a suitable option for them. To find the ideal place to stay in Germany, we recommend that you start looking for an apartment during the winter/ summer semester when you begin your studies.
When you look for accommodation, you have to consider certain criteria. The accommodation should be within walking distance or should have easy transport connectivity to the university. It should also have nearby access to supermarkets, shops, banks, restaurants, laundry, and other amenities you may need as a student. You also need to make sure that the area in which you have taken accommodation is safe.
Different types of Student Accommodation in Germany:-
There are four types of Student accommodation you can get in Germany:
Student Residences – Also known as Residence Halls, Student residences are shared accommodations where students live in the same place and share the same kitchen and bathroom. Dormitories may vary in different German cities. The differences are only in the building structure, interior design, or furnishings. The dormitories are located near each university. Student residences are generally affordable compared to other types of accommodation. For this reason, international students prefer dormitories to private accommodation. It is said that about 40% of international students in Germany live in dormitories. However, it should be noted that German student residences allow residence for a certain period, i.e. during the period of study. After completing the program, you should start looking for other accommodation.
Private Accommodations – Students have many options for staying in private homes. Private accommodation costs more than on-campus student housing but is ideal for students who want privacy and independence. Apart from the benefits of living in private accommodation, it should also be noted that students will have to pay their rent and other necessities. For homestay rentals, students can check the homestay website.
Sharing Apartments – Living in a flat-share the student has to share the same flat, utility costs, and rent. In this accommodation type, people must share the kitchen, bathroom, balcony, and living room with others. Students need to share the cost of rent and other utilities. Yet each one of them has their bedrooms to have their space for privacy. Flat hares are more affordable and give more privacy as compared to the Residence Halls. Students also get to decide with whom they are going to share the accommodations.
Short-Stay Accommodation – Some students prefer to move to Germany first and then look for other accommodation. Short-term accommodation can also be an option if you are only staying in Germany for a short period. Short-term accommodation is usually a room in a hostel, which is a very popular bed and breakfast these days.
How much does it cost for accommodation in Germany for students?
The cost of student dormitories in Germany is a big problem, especially for international students. According to the DAAD, also known as the German Academic Exchange Service, most students in Germany spend around €900 a month. According to official statistics, international students in Germany spend about €298 each month on accommodation, not including living expenses. Those who live in the cheaper option spend about €218, including living expenses for the same period. If they find cheaper accommodation, they are going to spend about €218.
Also Read: Application process for German Visa II Uni-Access
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