There are two main types of student housing in Germany: WG (Wohngemeinschaft, or shared flat) and Studentenwohnheim (student dormitory run by Studentenwerk). Both are worth pursuing simultaneously because availability in either is not guaranteed.

Studentenwohnheim rooms are run by the Studentenwerk, a quasi-government organisation supporting students. Rent is subsidised and significantly cheaper than the private market: EUR 200 to EUR 400 per month depending on city and room type. The catch is the waiting list. In cities like Munich and Berlin, waiting times can reach 12 to 18 months. Apply as soon as you receive your university acceptance. The Studentenwerk in your city has its own online application system. Apply immediately and also check for cancellation availability every week.

WG (shared flat) is the more realistic option for most arriving students. In a WG, you rent one room in a shared apartment and share the kitchen, bathroom, and common areas with other students or young professionals. WG rooms in cities like Berlin cost EUR 500 to EUR 800 per month. In Munich and Frankfurt, expect EUR 700 to EUR 1,100. Hamburg sits in the middle.

The main platform for WG searches is WG-Gesucht.de. Write a personalised profile in German (use a translator if needed) with a photo and a brief introduction about yourself and your studies. A well-written, human-sounding profile significantly improves your response rate. Mass-copy applications are easy for landlords to spot and get ignored.

Start your search three to four months before your arrival. Write to multiple listings every day. Competition is real and landlords often have dozens of applicants per listing.