Finding student accommodation in Germany can be more difficult than receiving a university admission offer. Affordable rooms are limited in major cities, traditional university towns, and locations with large student populations. Demand is especially high before the winter semester, when most new students arrive.

International students are generally responsible for arranging their own accommodation. Receiving admission from a German university does not automatically include a room in a student residence.

The most common accommodation options are student residences, shared apartments, private rooms, studio apartments, and temporary housing. Student residences are usually the most affordable, but they often have long waiting lists. Shared apartments offer more availability and independence, while private studios and apartments are typically the most expensive.

The German National Association for Student Affairs reports that the Studierendenwerke provide approximately 196,000 residence places nationwide. The average gross rent in these residences is slightly above €300 per month, making them one of the most affordable housing options outside the family home. However, actual rent depends on the city, residence, room type, and facilities.

Important: Accommodation prices, availability, application rules, and contract terms differ across German cities. Students should confirm the current rent and conditions directly with the responsible residence provider, university, Studierendenwerk, or landlord before making a payment.

Student Accommodation in Germany: Quick Overview

Rent can exceed these ranges in Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Stuttgart, Berlin, Cologne, Düsseldorf, and other high-demand housing markets.

Does a German University Provide Accommodation?

German universities generally do not automatically provide accommodation when they offer admission.

Student residences are often operated by the local Studierendenwerk, which is an independent student services organization. A university admission letter and a residence application are therefore usually handled separately.

A student may have to:

1. Apply to the university.

2. Apply separately to the local Studierendenwerk.

3. Join a residence waiting list.

4. Search for private alternatives at the same time.

5. Respond quickly if a housing offer is received.

Some universities reserve limited rooms for exchange students, scholarship recipients, or participants in specific international programs. Regular degree-seeking students should not assume that a place will be reserved for them.

The university’s international office may provide guidance, temporary-housing information, private listings, or contact details for the local Studierendenwerk. However, the student normally remains responsible for securing a room.

Why Is Student Accommodation Difficult to Find?

Germany has a large and growing student population, but the supply of affordable rooms has not increased at the same rate in every city.

Accommodation is particularly difficult to find in:

• Major metropolitan areas

• Popular university cities

• Cities with high employment and migration

• Locations with limited student residences

• Neighborhoods near university campuses

• Cities with expensive private rental markets

Demand becomes especially intense before the winter intake because it is the primary admission period for many German universities.

International students face additional challenges because they may:

• Be searching from outside Germany

• Have no German credit history

• Have no local guarantor

• Be unable to attend property viewings

• Have limited German-language ability

• Not yet have a German bank account

• Be unfamiliar with rental terminology

• Need an address that permits official registration

• Be vulnerable to fake accommodation offers

Students should begin searching as soon as they know their likely university destination. Waiting until the visa is approved can leave very little time before classes begin.

Types of Student Accommodation in Germany

International students can choose among several housing options. Each offers a different balance of affordability, privacy, availability, and responsibility.

Student Residence

Student residences, or Studentenwohnheime, are usually the most affordable option.

They may offer:

• Single rooms

• Rooms in shared apartments

• Small studios

• Apartments for couples

• Accessible accommodation

• Family accommodation

• Furnished or partly furnished units

Kitchens and bathrooms may be private or shared, depending on the room category.

Residence contracts are often limited to a specific number of semesters. Students may need to move out after the maximum residence period, even if they remain enrolled.

Shared Apartment

A shared apartment is called a Wohngemeinschaft or WG.

Each tenant normally has a private bedroom and shares the kitchen, bathroom, and common spaces. The WG is one of the most popular accommodation choices among students because it combines independence with shared living costs.

Private Room

A private room may be available in a landlord’s home, family residence, or privately operated shared property.

This arrangement can be affordable, but students should confirm access to the kitchen, laundry, bathroom, internet, and address registration.

Private Studio

A studio normally includes a bedroom or living area, kitchenette, and private bathroom.

Studios offer privacy but are more expensive than residence rooms and shared apartments.

Private Apartment

Private apartments are suitable for students with higher budgets, couples, or families.

They frequently require a larger deposit, proof of income, a guarantor, and additional utility contracts.

Temporary Accommodation

Temporary housing can include:

• Hostel

• Youth hostel

• Guesthouse

• Hotel

• Short-term furnished apartment

• University guest room

• Temporary sublet

Temporary accommodation can provide a safe place after arrival, but it is usually too expensive for long-term student living. Some temporary addresses may not allow official residence registration.

Student Residence in Germany

Student residences are popular because they offer relatively low rent and a built-in student community.

The Studierendenwerke operate around 196,000 residence places nationwide. The average gross rent in their halls is approximately €306 per month, although the actual price can be higher or lower.

Residence rent may include:

• Basic rent

• Heating

• Water

• Electricity

• Internet

• Furniture

• Building maintenance

• Shared facilities

Not every residence includes all these services. Students should check the description and contract.

Advantages of a Student Residence

• Generally lower rent

• Student-focused environment

• Furnished rooms in many residences

• Utilities included in some rents

• Access to international and German students

• Locations near universities or public transportation

• Fewer household setup expenses

• Easier integration for newly arriving students

Disadvantages of a Student Residence

• Limited availability

• Long waiting lists

• Shared kitchens or bathrooms

• Restrictions on contract duration

• Less choice over roommates

• Smaller living spaces

• Residence-specific rules

• Limited options for couples or families

A residence should be treated as the preferred affordable option, not as guaranteed accommodation.

How to Apply for a Student Residence

The local Studierendenwerk determines the application procedure.

A typical application process includes:

1. Identify the Studierendenwerk responsible for the university city.

2. Review available residence buildings and room categories.

3. Check eligibility and contract duration.

4. Complete the online accommodation application.

5. Select preferred residences or room types.

6. Submit enrollment or admission evidence if requested.

7. Join the waiting list.

8. Respond to confirmation requests.

9. Accept a room offer before the deadline.

10. Pay only through the official process.

Some Studierendenwerke allow applications before final enrollment, while others require an admission letter or proof of student status.

Students should not submit one application and then wait without monitoring it. Some providers require applicants to confirm continued interest periodically. Failure to respond can remove the student from the waiting list.

When Should Students Apply?

Students should apply as early as the local rules permit.

Demand is highest before the beginning of a semester, particularly before the winter intake. Waiting periods can last several months in popular cities.

Students should search for a private WG or temporary accommodation at the same time. Applying for a residence should be one part of a broader housing plan.

Shared Apartments in Germany

A WG offers students a private bedroom with shared common facilities.

WG arrangements can take different forms:

• All residents are named on one contract.

• Each resident has a separate contract.

• One main tenant sublets rooms.

• The landlord rents each room individually.

• A temporary tenant replaces a resident studying abroad.

The contract structure affects responsibility for rent, damages, notice periods, and replacement tenants.

Advantages of a WG

• Lower rent than many private studios

• Shared utilities and internet

• Shared broadcasting contribution

• Social interaction

• Greater choice of neighborhoods

• More independence than a residence hall

• Potentially larger kitchen and common areas

Disadvantages of a WG

• Roommate compatibility issues

• Shared cleaning responsibilities

• Limited privacy

• Competition for rooms

• Possible subletting complications

• Shared liability under some contracts

• Need to attend roommate interviews

Many WGs select new residents through an interview. The existing tenants may want to learn about the applicant’s study schedule, lifestyle, language ability, cleaning habits, and expectations.

A thoughtful personal introduction is more effective than sending the same generic message to every listing.

Private Studios and Apartments

Private accommodation provides more privacy but involves greater financial and administrative responsibility.

Many private apartments in Germany are rented without furniture. Some may not include a fitted kitchen. A listing described as an apartment does not necessarily include appliances, lighting fixtures, curtains, or household equipment.

Before accepting an apartment, check:

• Whether it is furnished

• Whether a kitchen is installed

• Whether heating is included

• Whether electricity is separate

• Whether internet is available

• Whether registration is permitted

• Whether pets are allowed

• Whether subletting is allowed

• Whether the rent can increase

• Whether there is a minimum rental period

Students should calculate the cost of furnishing and equipping an empty apartment before comparing it with a furnished room.

Student Accommodation Costs by City

Rent varies significantly across Germany.

High-Cost Cities

Cities with particularly competitive housing markets include:

• Munich

• Frankfurt

• Hamburg

• Berlin

• Stuttgart

• Cologne

• Düsseldorf

In these cities, a WG room may cost €500 to €800 or more. Private studios can exceed €1,000 per month.

Munich is generally among the most expensive student destinations. Students choosing Munich should apply for accommodation immediately after beginning the admission process.

Moderately Priced Cities

Depending on the neighborhood and availability, students may find more manageable rents in cities such as:

• Hanover

• Bremen

• Aachen

• Nuremberg

• Dresden

• Leipzig

• Bochum

• Essen

Affordable rooms can still be difficult to secure near the start of a semester.

Comparatively Affordable Student Cities

Smaller university cities may offer lower rents. Examples include:

• Magdeburg

• Chemnitz

• Ilmenau

• Kaiserslautern

• Saarbrücken

• Siegen

• Cottbus

• Halle

A smaller city may reduce rent but offer fewer private listings or part-time work opportunities. Students should consider transportation, academic facilities, internships, and employment alongside accommodation cost.

Understanding German Rent

German accommodation advertisements frequently use terms that international students may not recognize.

Kaltmiete

Kaltmiete means cold rent or basic rent. It generally excludes operating costs and utilities.

Warmmiete

Warmmiete means warm rent. It includes cold rent and certain additional charges, commonly including heating and building expenses.

Warm rent may not include:

• Electricity

• Internet

• Broadcasting contribution

• Parking

• Furniture charges

• All water or energy adjustments

Nebenkosten

Nebenkosten are additional operating costs. These may include heating, water, waste collection, building cleaning, or maintenance.

Kaution

Kaution means security deposit.

Untermiete

Untermiete means subletting. Students should confirm that the main tenant has permission to sublet.

Zwischenmiete

Zwischenmiete refers to a temporary sublet for a defined period.

Möbliert

Möbliert means furnished.

Wohnungsgeberbestätigung

The Wohnungsgeberbestätigung is confirmation from the housing provider that the student has moved into the address. It is normally required for residence registration.

Understanding these terms helps students compare listings accurately and avoid unexpected expenses.

Security Deposit Rules

A landlord may request a security deposit of up to three months of cold rent for residential accommodation.

If the monthly cold rent is €450, the maximum deposit may be €1,350.

The deposit is generally held as security against:

• Unpaid rent

• Damage beyond ordinary wear

• Outstanding charges

• Failure to meet contractual obligations

The deposit should normally be returned after the tenancy ends and the final obligations are settled. The landlord may need time to determine whether outstanding utility charges remain.

Students should:

• Obtain proof of payment.

• Confirm the amount in the contract.

• Avoid cash payment without a receipt.

• Record the condition of the room at move-in.

• Take dated photographs.

• Complete a handover report.

• Keep all rental documents.

The security deposit is separate from advance rent and should not be described as an agency or viewing fee.

Documents Required to Rent Accommodation

Landlords and housing providers may request different documents.

Common requirements include:

• Passport or identity document

• University admission letter

• Enrollment certificate

• Proof of income or financial resources

• Scholarship confirmation

• Guarantor declaration

• Blocked-account confirmation

• Previous landlord reference

• German credit record, if available

• Completed rental application

• Residence permit or visa

• Bank account details

Newly arriving international students may not have a German credit record, local salary, or previous German landlord. They can explain their situation and offer alternative evidence such as proof of funding, scholarship documentation, or a guarantor where accepted.

Students should share personal documents only with a verified landlord, residence provider, or authorized representative.

Rental Contract Checklist

A rental contract should be read carefully before signing.

Check the following:

• Complete address

• Name of landlord

• Name of tenant

• Room or apartment description

• Start date

• End date

• Cold rent

• Additional costs

• Total monthly payment

• Security deposit

• Payment date

• Bank account details

• Notice period

• Minimum rental period

• Furniture included

• Utility arrangements

• Internet

• House rules

• Repair responsibilities

• Subletting rules

• Guest restrictions

• Cleaning obligations

• Address registration

• Handover procedure

Students should request clarification about any clause they do not understand. An apparently low rent may become expensive when compulsory furniture, utility, service, or maintenance charges are added.

Fixed-Term and Open-Ended Contracts

A fixed-term contract ends on a specified date. It may be suitable for exchange students or temporary accommodation.

An open-ended contract continues until the tenant or landlord terminates it according to the applicable rules.

Student residence contracts are often time-limited. A residence may allow occupancy for a certain number of semesters rather than the entire period of enrollment.

Students should not assume that a fixed-term contract can be ended early. The contract should clearly explain cancellation rights and notice periods.

Address Registration After Moving In

People living in Germany generally need to register their residential address with the local Residents’ Registration Office.

The official guidance is to complete registration within two weeks of moving into the residence.

Students normally need:

• Passport or accepted identity document

• Completed registration form

• Appointment, where required

• Wohnungsgeberbestätigung from the landlord or housing provider

The registration certificate is often needed for:

• Residence-permit procedures

• Bank account services

• Insurance

• Tax identification

• Mobile or internet contracts

• Other administrative processes

A temporary hostel or hotel may not permit residential registration. Students should confirm this before relying on temporary accommodation for an extended period.

Broadcasting Contribution

Students living in Germany may be responsible for the public broadcasting contribution.

The current charge is €18.36 per month per household. It is generally paid once for the dwelling rather than separately by every roommate.

In a WG, the residents can usually divide the contribution. If one roommate already pays, the others may need that person’s contribution number when responding to official correspondence.

Student status alone does not automatically create an exemption. Certain students receiving specific financial assistance may be able to apply for an exemption.

Students should not ignore letters regarding the broadcasting contribution.

Temporary Accommodation

Students who cannot secure long-term housing before departure should arrange safe temporary accommodation.

Possible choices include:

• Hostel

• Youth hostel

• Guesthouse

• Short-term furnished apartment

• University guest room

• Temporary sublet

• Hotel

Temporary accommodation allows students to attend viewings after arrival. However, it can become expensive if used for several weeks.

Before booking, confirm:

• Total price

• Deposit

• Cancellation policy

• Kitchen access

• Luggage storage

• Distance from campus

• Public transportation

• Length-of-stay limits

• Address-registration possibility

Temporary accommodation should function as a bridge to long-term housing, not as the complete housing plan.

How to Search for Accommodation Safely

Students should begin with reliable sources:

• Local Studierendenwerk

• University international office

• University accommodation office

• University noticeboards

• Student union

• Official residence databases

• Verified private listings

• Personal academic contacts

• University student groups

When contacting a landlord or WG, students should provide a concise introduction covering:

• Name

• Age

• University

• Program

• Expected move-in date

• Expected rental duration

• Relevant living habits

• Ability to attend a viewing

• Contact information

Students should avoid sending sensitive financial or identity documents in the first message.

Accommodation Scams

International students searching from abroad are common targets for accommodation fraud.

Warning signs include:

• Rent far below the local market rate

• Landlord claiming to be permanently abroad

• Refusal to arrange a viewing

• Pressure to transfer money immediately

• Request for payment before a contract

• Request for a viewing fee

• Payment through an unusual transfer method

• Poor-quality or inconsistent property details

• Address that does not match the photographs

• Refusal to provide registration confirmation

• Request to send the complete passport immediately

• Promise to mail the keys after payment

• Contract containing different names or addresses

• Communication that avoids direct questions

Official German guidance warns that rent or a deposit should not be transferred merely to secure a viewing. Students should be suspicious when someone demands money before a tenancy agreement is signed and access to the property is provided.

How to Verify an Accommodation Offer

Before paying:

1. Confirm the complete address.

2. Verify the landlord or authorized provider.

3. Attend an in-person or reliable live video viewing.

4. Ask questions about the room and building.

5. Read the complete contract.

6. Confirm that registration is permitted.

7. Check that payment details match the contracting party.

8. Request receipts for every payment.

9. Avoid anonymous or irreversible transfer methods.

10. Ask the university housing office for advice if uncertain.

No genuine urgency should prevent a student from reading the contract and verifying the property.

Accommodation Plan Before Traveling

Students should follow a structured plan.

Step 1: Research the City

Identify:

• Main campus location

• Public transportation routes

• Nearby neighborhoods

• Average rent

• Local Studierendenwerk

• Distance from alternative cities or suburbs

Step 2: Apply for a Residence

Submit the residence application as early as permitted. Select multiple room types if the system allows it.

Step 3: Search for a WG

Begin sending personalized inquiries. Keep a record of listings, contacts, and responses.

Step 4: Prepare Documents

Create a secure document folder containing:

• Admission letter

• Passport copy

• Proof of funding

• Scholarship letter

• Guarantor information

• Enrollment confirmation when available

Step 5: Arrange Temporary Housing

If permanent housing is not confirmed, book a verified temporary option before traveling.

Step 6: Maintain an Arrival Reserve

Keep sufficient accessible money for the deposit, first month’s rent, temporary accommodation, and household setup.

Step 7: Continue the Search After Arrival

Attend viewings, visit the university housing office, check noticeboards, and contact the Studierendenwerk.

What to Check During a Viewing

During an in-person or live video viewing, examine:

• Room size

• Windows and ventilation

• Heating

• Signs of moisture or mold

• Furniture condition

• Bathroom

• Kitchen

• Appliances

• Laundry facilities

• Internet

• Locks

• Noise

• Building access

• Public transportation

• Distance from campus

• Neighborhood

• Mailbox

• Address registration

• Existing damage

Ask whether the displayed room is the exact room being offered.

Students should not rely entirely on edited photographs or descriptions.

Moving-In Inspection

When moving in, complete a handover report, known as an Übergabeprotokoll.

Record:

• Wall condition

• Floor condition

• Furniture

• Windows

• Doors

• Bathroom fixtures

• Kitchen appliances

• Meter readings

• Number of keys

• Existing damage

• Cleanliness

Take clear dated photographs and send written notice of any unrecorded damage.

This documentation helps protect the security deposit when moving out.

Student Accommodation for Indian Students

Indian students face the same rental rules as other international students but may encounter practical challenges when searching from India.

Common difficulties include:

• Inability to attend physical viewings

• No German credit history

• No local guarantor

• Delayed visa decision

• Limited familiarity with German contracts

• Pressure to pay before traveling

• Currency-transfer delays

Indian students should prioritize official residence applications and verified university resources.

When evaluating rent, convert the complete warm-rent amount rather than only the cold rent. Currency rates fluctuate, so the main budget should remain in euros.

Students should also maintain funds for:

• Security deposit

• Temporary accommodation

• First month’s rent

• Household supplies

• Transportation

• Broadcasting contribution

• Internet or electricity setup

• Emergency housing changes

A blocked-account release may not be available immediately after arrival. Deposit and setup funds should therefore be held separately.

Accommodation for Exchange Students

Exchange students often stay for one or two semesters and may have access to reserved or short-term residence rooms.

However, availability is not guaranteed.

Exchange students should confirm:

• Contract duration

• Arrival and departure dates

• Whether early termination is permitted

• Furniture

• Bedding

• Internet

• Deposit

• Cleaning charges

• Residence registration

A fixed-term furnished sublet may also be suitable if it covers the exact exchange period.

Accommodation for Couples and Families

Couples and families need larger accommodation and should begin searching early.

Family apartments in student residences are limited. Private landlords may request higher proof of income or a larger financial guarantee.

Families should consider:

• Number of rooms

• Childcare location

• Schools

• Public transportation

• Health services

• Playground access

• Grocery stores

• Registration for all family members

• Utility costs

• Heating

• Accessibility

A room suitable for one student may not legally or practically accommodate a spouse or child.

Accessible Student Accommodation

Students with disabilities or chronic health conditions should contact the Studierendenwerk and university disability support service early.

Possible needs may include:

• Step-free access

• Elevator

• Accessible bathroom

• Wider doors

• Ground-floor room

• Proximity to campus

• Space for assistance equipment

• Accessible transportation

Accessible rooms are limited and may require supporting documentation. Early communication improves the likelihood of securing appropriate housing.

How to Reduce Accommodation Costs

Apply Early

Early residence applications provide access to more affordable options.

Consider Multiple Room Types

Selecting a shared room, residence WG, or less central building can improve availability.

Expand the Search Area

Neighborhoods outside the city center may offer lower rent while remaining accessible through public transportation.

Consider Nearby Towns

Students can compare rent in surrounding towns, but transportation cost and travel time should be included.

Choose a WG

Sharing rent, internet, electricity, and broadcasting costs can reduce monthly expenses.

Avoid Unnecessary Furniture Costs

A furnished residence or WG may cost slightly more each month but reduce initial setup expenses.

Use University Resources

University noticeboards, accommodation offices, and student services may offer safer and more affordable listings.

Review Total Rent

Compare warm rent, electricity, internet, transportation, and other charges rather than only the advertised cold rent.

Consider Living for Help

Some cities offer Wohnen für Hilfe arrangements. Students receive reduced-cost accommodation in exchange for agreed assistance to an older person, family, or household.

These arrangements require clear expectations, suitable matching, and formal agreements.

Common Accommodation Mistakes

Students should avoid:

• Assuming university admission includes accommodation

• Applying only for a student residence

• Beginning the search too late

• Paying before verifying the offer

• Ignoring cold-rent and warm-rent differences

• Signing a contract without reading it

• Failing to confirm address registration

• Sending sensitive documents to unverified people

• Ignoring the notice period

• Forgetting the security deposit

• Not recording existing damage

• Choosing a distant area without checking transportation

• Assuming utilities are included

• Ignoring broadcasting charges

• Depending on temporary accommodation for too long

• Failing to budget for furniture and household items

Student Accommodation Checklist

Before accepting a room, confirm:

• Complete address

• Landlord or provider identity

• Exact room being offered

• Monthly cold rent

• Monthly warm rent

• Utilities included

• Electricity

• Internet

• Furniture

• Broadcasting contribution

• Security deposit

• Contract start and end dates

• Notice period

• Registration permission

• Wohnungsgeberbestätigung

• House rules

• Subletting permission

• Cleaning duties

• Distance from campus

• Transportation

• Handover report

• Payment method

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does student accommodation cost in Germany?

A student residence may cost approximately €300 to €500 per month. A WG room may cost €350 to €700 or more, while a private studio may cost €600 to €1,200 or more. Prices are higher in major cities.

Does university admission include accommodation?

Usually not. Students generally need to apply separately for a residence or arrange private accommodation.

What is the cheapest student accommodation in Germany?

A room in a Studierendenwerk residence is normally among the cheapest options. Shared apartments can also be affordable.

When should students apply for accommodation?

Students should apply as soon as the local housing provider allows it. Demand is particularly high before the winter semester.

Is student accommodation guaranteed?

No. Residence places are limited and waiting lists can be long.

What is a WG?

A Wohngemeinschaft or WG is a shared apartment in which residents have private bedrooms and share the kitchen, bathroom, and common areas.

What is the difference between cold and warm rent?

Cold rent is the basic property rent. Warm rent includes the basic rent and certain operating costs, usually including heating. Electricity, internet, and other charges may still be separate.

How much is the security deposit?

For residential accommodation, a security deposit may be up to three months of cold rent.

Can students register a hostel address?

Some temporary accommodation does not permit official residence registration. Students should ask the provider before booking a long stay.

What document is needed for address registration?

Students renting accommodation generally need a Wohnungsgeberbestätigung completed by the landlord or housing provider.

How soon must students register their address?

Residents are generally expected to register within two weeks of moving into their accommodation.

Should students pay before viewing an apartment?

Students should be extremely cautious. Official guidance warns against transferring rent or deposits merely to secure a viewing or before the tenancy agreement and property access are properly established.

Can Indian students book accommodation from India?

Yes, but the provider and property must be verified carefully. Official residence providers and university-supported resources should be prioritized.

Which German city has the most expensive student accommodation?

Munich is generally among the most expensive. Frankfurt, Hamburg, Berlin, Stuttgart, Cologne, and Düsseldorf can also have high rents.

Are utilities included in student accommodation?

Utilities are included in some residence and WG rents but not all. Students should request a written breakdown.

Do students pay the broadcasting contribution separately?

The contribution is normally charged once per household. WG residents can usually divide the cost.

What should a student do if permanent accommodation is unavailable?

Book verified temporary accommodation, continue applying to residences, attend private viewings after arrival, and contact the university international office and local Studierendenwerk.

Conclusion

Student accommodation in Germany requires early planning, flexibility, and careful verification.

Student residences are generally the most affordable choice, with average gross rent at Studierendenwerk-operated halls slightly above €300 per month. However, the limited number of rooms means that students must also consider shared apartments, private rooms, studios, and temporary accommodation.

Rent varies considerably by city. Munich, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Berlin, and Stuttgart generally require larger housing budgets, while smaller university cities may offer more affordable options.

Students should understand the difference between cold rent and warm rent, calculate utilities and deposits, review the rental contract, and confirm that address registration is permitted.

Accommodation scams are a serious risk, particularly for students searching from abroad. No student should transfer money simply because a listing appears urgent or unusually affordable. The landlord, address, contract, payment details, and room should be verified before payment.

A strong housing strategy includes an early residence application, a parallel WG search, verified temporary accommodation, accessible deposit funds, and continued communication with the university and local Studierendenwerk.

With early action and careful planning, international students can find safe and manageable accommodation for their studies in Germany.