Finding an Accommodation in Germany for Initial Days or Short Period
Introduction
Student hall is the most affordable accommodation for students but due to very high demand not all the students will get a place in student hall. Students who are searching for private WG or apartment should find temporary accommodation in Germany for a first few days until you sign the contract. This article describes few temporary accommodation options for students in Germany.
Temporary accommodation at Studentenwerk
At some universities, the Studentenwerk and religious university organizations offer international students temporary housing for their first nights in Germany. Not all the Studentenwerk provide this service. You have to contact Studentenwerk or visit Studentenwerk website to know whether this service is provided or not.Â
Youth hostel
The second option, rent a room in a youth hostel until you have found permanent accommodation.
But if you want to take a room at a youth hostel you need to become a member of the German Youth Hostel Association or any other national Youth Hostel Association. If you’re not already, you can become a member (for a small fee) at any youth hostel in Germany.
Hotel/Private accommodation
The next option is to finding accommodation in a hotel or in a flat through websites like Booking.com and airbnb.com.
Comparison between temporary accommodation options in Germany
Seach Accomodation via Booking.com
Alternative option to find an accommodation at student hall
For students who did not get a place in student hall by submitting an online application to Studentenwerke, the next best option is to use the social media to find accommodation in student hall. Many students sublet their student hall rooms for a limited period when they go abroad for an exchange program or to complete a placement or internship elsewhere. Â For eg: To find accommodation in Magdeburg there is a facebook group called ” Student accommodation Magdeburg”. Likewise, according to the region and university, there will be a facebook group. You can join in those groups and find your room for short term.
But make sure to have a look at the room before signing the contract and know how much you are paying. The advantage of this option is you will be around the university and you can interact with other students about finding permanent accommodation.
Conclusion
In Germany, in all the cities the student hall provides accommodation at an affordable price. So, always try to opt for student service than private. If you’re not able to find short-term accommodation in Studentenwerk then choose youth hostel because they are a non-profit organization who provide accommodation at an affordable cost and best service.
