Accommodation in Germany for Indian Students: Finding the Right Place to Live

Germany is quickly becoming a top choice for Indian students, with over 43,000 Indians currently enrolled in its leading Universities and Institutions. This popular European study destination saw a remarkable 100% increase in enrollments over the past five years. The country's high-quality education, affordable tuition fees, and strong job market make it an appealing destination, but finding the right place to live can be challenging. 

That's where we come in! In this guide, we'll walk you through the various accommodation options and share essential tips to help you navigate the housing options in Germany. Let's help you find your ideal home so you can focus on making the most of your experience while studying in Germany.
 

Types of Accommodation in Germany

Several housing types are available across Germany depending on each individual's preferences and budget. Let us explore the most popular choices among Indian students:

1. Halls of Residence

Monthly Rent: Approximately INR 23,176 (€250) (May vary based on university, size, and amenities).

Student housing in Germany, also known as dorms or university residences, offers one of the most affordable living options. More than 40% of students from other countries, including India, opt to stay in these residences in Germany. 

This shared housing arrangement is customized to fit your living preferences and may differ slightly between German cities. It's often located near universities and involves living in a house or apartment with a shared kitchen and bathroom.

Living in the dorms provides plenty of opportunities to socialize and interact with other students. However, these rooms are highly competitive, so it is suggested that you secure a place in advance. Popular Universities in Germany, like Lancaster and Constructor, offer several options for campus accommodation. You can look on their website for detailed info.
 

2. Flatshares (Wohngemeinschaft)

Monthly Rent: Approximately INR 22,064 to 45,796 (€238 to €494)

Flatshares commonly known as Wohngemeinschaft in Germany are the second most popular student housing option after university accommodations. While many Indian students prefer this option, some choose it as an alternative to on-campus housing. 

These apartments are typically quite spacious and can comfortably accommodate up to four students. You will have your private bedroom but share communal areas like the living room, bathroom, and kitchen with your flatmates. Additionally, just like the rent, you'll need to contribute to the expenses for shared utilities.
 

4. Short-Stay Accommodation

Monthly Rent: Vary according to accommodation options.

You can opt for short-stay accommodation if you are looking to study in Germany for a brief period or have not finalized a permanent place to live. You can opt for overnight accommodation, rent a private B&B, or lease a private or shared room in a hostel.
 

5. Private Accommodation

Monthly Rent: Approximately INR 44,035 to 69,532 (€475 to €750)

If you prefer a more private space and want to live independently, you can rent your place in Germany.  Typically, you’ll need to pay a security deposit, usually equivalent to 1-3 months' rent. This is refunded when you move out, provided there’s no damage to the property. 

This choice costs more than other living options because you'll need to cover the rent, water, heating, internet & electricity yourself. However, it provides an opportunity to live independently on your terms. But before finalizing on any terms, make sure to clarify with your landlord which utilities are included in the rent to avoid any hassles in the future.

As an Indian student, there are some essential tips to consider when booking private accommodation:

• In countries like Germany, you may need to interact directly with local landlords. It’s important to familiarize yourself with their cancellation policy in case of a visa denial to avoid any complications. 
   
• Beware of rental scams. If something seems too good to be true (extremely low rent or the landlord asking for a deposit before viewing), be cautious.
   
• Avoid paying rent or deposits via money transfer services like Western Union or PayPal unless you're sure of the legitimacy. Furthermore, always sign a rental contract and ask for a receipt for any payments made.

These tips are particularly valuable when booking private accommodation. Moving forward, let's explore some crucial considerations for all types of accommodation booking in Germany.
 

Things to Consider While Finalizing Accommodation in Germany

The following factors will help you make an informed decision and find the ideal home that meets your needs and preferences:

1. Right Time to Book 

As soon as you receive an admission offer from your applied university, you should start looking for accommodation. The University's International Office can help you with the entire process if you are facing trouble finding the right place to live.
 

2. Renting Basics

In Germany, the monthly rent is generally divided into two categories: Basic Rent and Utility Costs. The base rent includes the use of one or more rooms. On the other hand, the utility costs include food, water, gas, heating, waste collection, and other amenities. So, consider these expenses as per your budget. 
 

3. Asking for Guidance 

If you have friends or acquaintances with insights to share, their input is always welcome. If you know someone who currently lives in Germany or has studied there previously, you can contact them for recommendations. They may know someone looking for a flatmate or can suggest the best living options based on their own experiences.
 

4. Rent Agreement & Payment Considerations

When making payments for accommodation, extreme caution is crucial. You may encounter scammers who mislead you with incorrect choices. To ensure your safety, KC Overseas’s Accommodation Experts implement various security measures and assist you with 100% authentic options from our 100% verified listings.

Wrapping up this article, consider every available resource available in this article and finalize the most suitable choice. Your best options are to reach out to university websites or consult trusted Experts like KC Overseas Education. As one of the best overseas education consultants in Nagpur, Chandigarh, Kochi, Jaipur, and other Indian cities, we offer student accommodation services as well. Get free accommodation guidance, constant support, and exclusive offers from KC Overseas! Connect with us today!