Germany has become one of the world’s most popular study destinations — public universities charge virtually no tuition, and Berlin and Munich consistently rank as top global student cities. The housing system is unique, with distinct accommodation types that international students need to understand.
German Student Housing Types
Studentenwerk Dormitories
The student union (Studentenwerk) operates subsidized dorms. A single room in a WG (shared flat within the dorm) costs €200–380/month. A self-contained apartment costs €280–450/month. Apply immediately upon receiving your university acceptance — waiting lists are 1–4 semesters in popular cities.
WG (Wohngemeinschaft)
The German shared flat. Typically 2–5 people share an apartment, each with their own room. The WG-Casting culture: you’re interviewed by the existing flatmates, who choose their new roommate. Rooms €300–600/month depending on city.
Private Apartment
Renting your own place. Significantly more expensive and requires a SCHUFA credit check and often a German guarantor. Studios €500–1,200/month.
Cost by City (2026)
- Berlin: 380–600 · 600–1,000
- Munich: 500–750 · 800–1,300
- Hamburg: 400–600 · 600–1,000
- Cologne: 380–580 · 550–900
- Frankfurt: 400–620 · 600–950
The Blocked Account (Sperrkonto)
For your student visa, you must prove you have €11,208 in a blocked account. This releases €934/month for living expenses. Set up your blocked account through Flywire.
Anmeldung: Registering Your Address
Within 14 days of moving in, you must register your address (Anmeldung) at the local Bürgeramt (citizens’ office). You need:
- Passport
- Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation form — your landlord must sign this)
- Completed registration form
The Anmeldung is critical — you need it for your residence permit, bank account, and basically everything else.
FAQ
Do I need to speak German to find housing? For Studentenwerk dorms and WGs with international students, no. For the broader WG market and private rentals, basic German helps enormously. What’s “warm” vs “cold” rent? Kaltmiete = rent without utilities. Warmmiete = rent including heating and water (but usually not electricity/internet). Budget €50–100/month extra for Nebenkosten (utilities). What about health insurance? Mandatory for all students. Public insurance (TK, AOK, Barmer) costs ~€120/month for students under 30.