An Essential Guide to Renting an Apartment as a Foreign Student in Germany

Studying in a different country can cause you so many anxieties, especially if you’ve never been there before. Warming up to climatic conditions and adapting to life, in general, are among some obstacles that you may face. 

However, studying in a country like Germany has many advantages as a foreign student. Aside from the fact that it is one of the world’s heavyweights in terms of economy, it is a beautiful place to live and study.

As a student in Germany, one of the most important things to do is looking for where to stay. Renting an apartment is quite difficult, not to talk about getting the right place. One thing to put into consideration is the proximity of your residence to your place of study. Living very far away will incur transportation costs, which might tell heavily on your finances.

A brand like Erfahrungenscout.de can be of help here. They are one of the best platforms providing online companies reviews in Germany. You can get essential information about housing-related companies, the services they offer and more on their website. You can also get information on German loan companies. This may come in handy for students seeking financial help.

Without much ado, here are some things you should know when renting an apartment in Germany.

1. The Students’ Hall of Residence Could Be Your Easiest Bet

As a foreign student, the hall of residence which is usually attached to your institution and mostly operated by the Deutsches Studentenwerk might be your easiest option for accommodation. The reasons are that it is the cheapest and you can apply for it online before stepping foot in the country.

Staying in a hall of residence means you’ll have the opportunity to actively socialize with other students from diverse backgrounds, and participate in extra-curricular activities too.

All you need to do is to apply to your school’s hall of residence as soon as your admission is confirmed because they tend to get filled up quickly. Once your accommodation is successful, you’ll receive your accommodation offer, Festanschreiben along with other vital information.

2. Student Lodging Organizations

This is also similar to halls of residence operated by schools, but these student lodgings are external and may be quite distant from your institution. However, they are not too expensive, although this may depend on what type of apartment you decide to get. They are also a good means to socialize with other students too.

3. A private Residence

Most students end up getting a private flat or apartment to stay. This is a good choice if you are looking for privacy. But the downside is that this accommodation is quite costly and most German apartments are grossly unfurnished. This means you’ll have to do a lot of home additions for the sake of comfort.

Sharing a flat, Wohngemeinschaf, is also an option if you want to cut cost and have someone around with whom you can interact.

4. Temporary Lodging

You’ll need a temporary shelter when you arrive in Germany, especially if you are seeking a private apartment. Such temporary accommodations include lodging in cheap hotels, guest houses, and Privatzimmer (private provisions by housing advertisers).

There is a need to be aware of certain German apartment terminologies as this will help you in getting the type of apartment you’re looking for. Making use of the internet, social media and house rental agencies will go a long way into easing your search for a suitable dwelling place. And also ensure to go through any apartment contract to be aware of all duties and expectations therein.