Finding Student Accommodation in Berlin: Complete Housing Guide for Steinbeis University Students

Understanding Berlin's Student Housing Landscape

Before diving into the practical how-to of finding accommodation, it's important to understand what makes Berlin's housing market unique and what you can realistically expect as an international student.

Why Steinbeis Doesn't Provide On-Campus Housing

Unlike some traditional German universities that offer student dormitories, Steinbeis University - Schools of Next Practices does not have on-campus housing. This is actually quite common for private universities in Germany, and particularly in Berlin, where the university model is more integrated into the city fabric rather than isolated on separate campuses.

What this means for you:

• You'll need to find your own accommodation in Berlin

• You have complete freedom to choose where and how you live

• You're not restricted to specific dormitories or student housing

• You can choose housing that fits your lifestyle, budget, and preferences

• You'll have a more authentic Berlin living experience integrated into the city

But you're not alone in this process. Steinbeis provides comprehensive support through:

• Sharing trusted accommodation platforms and websites

• Connecting you with reliable listings and landlords

• Providing guidance on Berlin neighborhoods and what to expect

• Advising on rental contracts, rights, and German housing regulations

• Connecting you with current students who can offer firsthand advice

• Supporting you throughout the search and settlement process

The Reality of Berlin's Housing Market

Let's be honest about what you'll encounter: Berlin's housing market has become more competitive in recent years as the city has grown in popularity. However, it's still far more accessible and affordable than other major European capitals like London, Paris, Amsterdam, or Munich.

Current market realities:

The challenges:

• High demand, especially for affordable student-friendly accommodations

• Competition from other students, young professionals, and newcomers

• Need to act quickly when good opportunities appear

• Landlords may prefer tenants with German language skills or local guarantors

• Some administrative requirements can be complex for newcomers

The advantages:

• Berlin is still one of Europe's most affordable major cities

• Huge variety of housing options across all price ranges

• Many landlords and agencies specifically cater to international students

• English-speaking housing resources available

• Student-friendly neighborhoods with good infrastructure

• Excellent public transportation means you can live outside city center affordably

Realistic expectations:
Finding housing requires patience, persistence, and proactive effort. It typically takes 2-6 weeks to find suitable accommodation, though some students succeed faster and others take longer. Starting your search early and being flexible significantly improves your chances.

Types of Student Accommodation in Berlin

Understanding your options helps you target the right type of housing for your needs, budget, and lifestyle.

Shared Apartments (Wohngemeinschaft - WG)

What it is:
WG (pronounced "vay-gay") is the most popular housing option for students in Germany. You rent a private bedroom in an apartment while sharing common spaces (kitchen, bathroom, living room) with 2-5 other people (your flatmates or "Mitbewohner").

Advantages:

• Most affordable option: Typically €400-700 per month in Berlin

• Social experience: Built-in community, especially valuable when new to the city

• Furnished or semi-furnished: Often includes kitchen equipment, furniture in common areas

• Utility costs usually included: "Warm" rent including heating, water often offered

• Flexible contracts: Easier to find short-term options

• Already established: Move into existing apartment with settled housemates

Considerations:

• Sharing spaces requires compromise and communication

• Privacy is limited to your private room

• Housemate dynamics can be wonderful or challenging

• Bathroom and kitchen access shared with others

• Potential for noise from flatmates

• WG selection process can be competitive (you "apply" to join existing WGs)

Who it's ideal for:

• Students seeking affordability

• Those who value social connection

• Newcomers wanting to integrate into local culture

• People comfortable with shared living

• Those seeking shorter-term flexible arrangements

Typical WG room in Berlin:

• Private bedroom 12-20 square meters

• Basic furniture (bed, desk, closet) usually included

• Shared kitchen, bathroom, sometimes living room

• Internet usually included

• €400-700 per month depending on location and room size

Private Apartments (Studio / 1-Bedroom)

What it is:
Entire apartment for yourself—studio (one room serving as bedroom/living room plus separate kitchen/bathroom) or one-bedroom apartment with separate bedroom.

Advantages:

• Complete privacy and independence

• Your own kitchen and bathroom

• Control over your living environment

• Ability to establish your own routines

• Better for couples or those valuing solitude

• No compromising with flatmates

Considerations:

• Higher cost: €700-1,200+ per month depending on location and size

• Often unfurnished: May need to purchase furniture, kitchen equipment

• Longer-term contracts more common: Landlords prefer stable tenants

• Can feel isolating, especially when new to the city

• All utilities are your responsibility

• Higher deposit requirements: Typically 2-3 months' rent

Who it's ideal for:

• Students with higher budgets

• Those highly valuing privacy

• Couples or students with families

• Mature students preferring independence

• People working from home extensively who need quiet space

• Those planning longer stays who want to establish permanent home

Student Residences / Dormitories (Studentenwohnheim)

What it is:
Purpose-built student housing managed by organizations like Studierendenwerk Berlin or private student residence companies. You rent a furnished room (sometimes with private bathroom, sometimes shared) in a building exclusively for students.

Advantages:
Student community: Everyone around you is also a student

• Affordable: €350-550 per month typically

• Furnished: Room comes ready to move in

• Utilities included: Usually "all-inclusive" rent

• Support services: Building management handles maintenance

• Social activities: Many organize events and community building

• Administratively simpler: Purpose-built for students, understand visa requirements

Considerations:

• High demand / long waiting lists: Especially for Studierendenwerk locations

• Less housing choice: Take what's available rather than selecting specific apartment

• Can feel institutional: Purpose-built residences lack character of regular Berlin apartments

• Rules and regulations: Quiet hours, guest policies, etc.

• Mixed experiences: Depends heavily on specific building and management

• May be outside central locations

How to access:

• Studierendenwerk Berlin: Apply online, but expect 6-12 month waiting lists

• Private student residences: Companies like The Fizz, CHAPTER, or Student Village Berlin

• Some Steinbeis partnerships: We can connect you with student residence options

Temporary Housing / Hostels for Initial Period

What it is:
Short-term accommodation (1-4 weeks) while you search for permanent housing. Options include hostels, Airbnb, temporary sublets, or student hotels.

When to use this approach:

• You want to arrive in Berlin and search for housing in person

• You prefer seeing apartments before committing

• You couldn't secure permanent housing before arrival

• You want to explore neighborhoods before deciding where to live

Advantages:

• Flexibility to search without time pressure

• Ability to view apartments in person

• Chance to get to know Berlin neighborhoods firsthand

• Easier to pass WG interviews (can meet in person)

• No long-term commitment while you explore options

Considerations:

• Additional cost (€25-60 per night typically)

• Living out of a suitcase for weeks can be tiring

• Need storage for luggage while apartment hunting

• Creates two moves (temporary to permanent) rather than one

Typical approach: Book 2-3 weeks temporary accommodation → Arrive in Berlin → Search intensively for permanent housing → Move to permanent place

Berlin Neighborhoods: Where Should You Live?

Berlin is a vast, diverse city with distinct neighborhoods (called "Kieze" locally), each with its own character, advantages, and typical rent levels. Understanding these helps you target your search effectively.

Central and Student-Friendly Neighborhoods

Friedrichshain

• Character: Young, alternative, vibrant nightlife, creative scene

• Rent level: €500-750 for WG room, €800-1,100 for studio

• Advantages: Excellent public transport, many cafés and restaurants, student-friendly

• Commute to Steinbeis: 20-30 minutes depending on exact location

• Vibe: Energetic, artistic, multicultural, party-oriented

Kreuzberg

• Character: Multicultural, diverse, historic, growing gentrification

• Rent level: €500-800 for WG room, €850-1,200 for studio

• Advantages: Central location, cultural diversity, excellent food scene

• Commute to Steinbeis: 15-25 minutes

• Vibe: Alternative, diverse, politically engaged, hip

Neukölln

• Character: Up-and-coming, multicultural, affordable, artistic

• Rent level: €450-650 for WG room, €700-950 for studio

• Advantages: More affordable than central districts, authentic Berlin feel, diverse

• Commute to Steinbeis: 20-35 minutes

• Vibe: Gritty but gentrifying, international, young, creative

Prenzlauer Berg

• Character: Family-friendly, gentrified, boutique cafés, cleaner streets

• Rent level: €600-850 for WG room, €900-1,300 for studio

• Advantages: Beautiful architecture, safe, many parks, good infrastructure

• Commute to Steinbeis: 25-35 minutes

• Vibe: Upscale but relaxed, family-oriented, comfortable, less party-focused

Charlottenburg

• Character: Western Berlin, more traditional, university area (TU Berlin nearby)

• Rent level: €500-750 for WG room, €800-1,100 for studio

• Advantages: Close to Steinbeis campus, established infrastructure, international community

• Commute to Steinbeis: 10-20 minutes

• Vibe: Professional, diverse, established, less "alternative" than East Berlin

Affordable Options Slightly Outside Center

Wedding

• Character: Working-class neighborhood, multicultural, rapidly developing

• Rent level: €400-600 for WG room, €650-900 for studio

• Advantages: Very affordable, authentic Berlin, good transport connections

• Commute to Steinbeis: 20-30 minutes

• Vibe: Diverse, authentic, less touristy, improving infrastructure

Lichtenberg / Marzahn

Character: Eastern Berlin, Soviet-era housing blocks, less gentrified

• Rent level: €350-550 for WG room, €600-800 for studio

• Advantages: Most affordable options, quiet, improving public transport

• Commute to Steinbeis: 35-50 minutes

• Vibe: Residential, quiet, less internationally focused, authentic East Berlin

Spandau / Reinickendorf

• Character: Western outskirts, more suburban feel, family neighborhoods

• Rent level: €400-600 for WG room, €650-850 for studio

• Advantages: Affordable, quiet, parks and green spaces

• Commute to Steinbeis: 35-50 minutes

• Vibe: Suburban, calm, less student-oriented

Factors to Consider When Choosing Neighborhood

1. Commute Time and Transport Connections

• Berlin's public transport (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, buses) is excellent

• Living farther from campus is viable if you have good transport connections

• Check Google Maps for commute time to Steinbeis campus

• Consider whether you want to be walking distance or transport-dependent

2. Budget vs. Location Trade-off

• Living centrally costs more but saves commute time

• Living outside center is cheaper but requires longer commutes

• Calculate total monthly cost including transport (though semester ticket covers most)

3. Lifestyle and Social Preferences

• Party-oriented students: Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg, Neukölln

• Quieter lifestyle: Prenzlauer Berg, Charlottenburg

• Multicultural environment: Kreuzberg, Neukölln, Wedding

• Green spaces: Prenzlauer Berg, Charlottenburg, Spandau

4. International Student Communities

Areas with many international students: Friedrichshain, Kreuzberg, Charlottenburg

• More local German neighborhoods: Wedding, Lichtenberg

• Both have advantages depending on your integration goals

How to Find Accommodation: Platforms and Resources

Now for the practical part: where and how to actually find housing in Berlin.

Primary Housing Platforms (Most Popular)

1. WG-Gesucht.de

• What it is: Germany's largest platform for shared apartments and rooms

• Best for: Finding WG rooms (most common student option)

• Language: German primarily, but many listings in English

• How it works:

  • Create detailed profile with photo, description, interests

  • Search for available rooms in your preferred neighborhoods

  • Contact room advertisers expressing interest

  • Attend viewings / WG interviews

  • Decision made by current flatmates

Tips for success:

• Complete profile thoroughly with engaging description

• Respond to listings quickly (within hours if possible)

• Write personalized messages, not generic copy-paste

• Mention you're an international student at Steinbeis University

• Be genuine—flatmates select based on personality fit, not just finances

2. ImmobilienScout24.de

• What it is: Germany's largest general real estate platform

• Best for: Private apartments, studios, professional rentals

• Language: Mostly German, some English listings

• How it works:

  • Search for apartments meeting your criteria

  • 
    

    • Contact landlords or property management companies

    • Schedule viewings

    • Submit application package (detailed requirements)

    • Landlord selects tenant

    Application requirements typically include:

    • Schufa (German credit report)—difficult for new arrivals

    • Proof of income or financial resources (blocked account works)

    • Previous landlord references

    • Copy of passport/ID

    • Sometimes employer letter (enrollment confirmation works)
      
      

      3. Facebook Groups

    • What it is: Active community groups where people post housing offers and searches

    • Best for: Finding sublets, WG rooms, flexible arrangements

    • Key groups:

      • "Berlin Apartments / Flats / Housing"

      • "Free Rooms & Apartments in Berlin"

      • "Berlin Housing / WG / Sublet"

      • "International Students Berlin Housing"

    How to use effectively:

    • Join multiple relevant groups

    • Turn on notifications for new posts

    • Post your own housing search ad with clear details

    • Respond immediately to relevant posts

    • Be cautious of scams (see safety section below)

    4. EBay Kleinanzeigen (now Kleinanzeigen.de)

    • What it is: Classified ads platform (like Craigslist)

    • Best for: WG rooms, sublets, flexible arrangements

    • How it works: Similar to other platforms—search, contact, view

    Student-Specific Resources

    5. Student Residence Companies

    • The Fizz: Modern student residences across Berlin

    • CHAPTER: Purpose-built student housing

    • Student Village Berlin: Large student community residences

    • Advantage: Designed for students, furnished, all-inclusive rent, international community

    • Application: Apply directly through their websites

    6. Studierendenwerk Berlin

    • What it is: Official student services organization

    • Housing: Operates student dormitories across Berlin

    • Challenge: Very high demand, long waiting lists (6-12 months typical)

    • Cost: €250-400 per month (very affordable when available)

    • Application: Register on their website immediately, join waiting list

    7. Steinbeis University Housing Support

    • What we provide:

      • Curated list of trusted platforms and resources

      • Connections to reliable landlords and student residences

      • Current student testimonials and housing experiences

      • Guidance on avoiding scams and navigating processes

      • Support during your housing search

      • Advice on neighborhoods and commute considerations

    Additional Resources

    8. HousingAnywhere

    • International platform for medium-term rentals (3-12 months)

    • Often furnished, no German Schufa required

    • Popular among international students

    • Higher prices than direct WG rooms but more straightforward

    9. Spotahome
    Book apartments online without in-person viewing

  • Verified listings with video tours

  • Good for securing housing before arrival

  • Higher prices but convenience factor

  10. Nestpick

  • Furnished apartments for international students and young professionals

  • English-language platform

  • Move-in ready options

  • Mid to higher price range

  The Complete Step-by-Step Housing Search Process

  Now let's walk through the entire process from start to finish.

  Timeline: When to Start

  Ideal timeline: 2-3 months before arrival

  • Start monitoring platforms to understand market

  • Join Facebook groups and observe what's available

  • Consider whether you want to secure housing remotely or in-person

  Minimum timeline: 4-6 weeks before arrival

  • Begin active search and applications

  • Reality is many listings appear only 2-4 weeks before availability

  • German rental market moves quickly—long advance planning less effective than other countries

  Backup option: Temporary housing first

  • Book 2-3 weeks temporary accommodation

  • Arrive and search in person

  • Many students find this most effective despite extra cost and effort

  Step 1: Define Your Requirements and Budget

  Clarify your priorities:

  • Maximum monthly budget (including utilities)

  • Preferred neighborhoods or maximum commute time

  • WG vs. private apartment

  • Furnished vs. unfurnished

  • Move-in date flexibility

  • Minimum contract length you'll accept

  Be realistic about trade-offs:

  • Cheaper rent = longer commute or less desirable neighborhood

  • Central location = higher cost

  • Private apartment = much higher than WG room

  • Short-term flexibility = may cost more than long-term contracts

  Step 2: Create Strong Profiles and Search Ads

  On platforms like WG-Gesucht:

  • Professional but friendly profile photo

  • Detailed "About Me" in both English and German (use translation tools)

  • Explain you're international student at Steinbeis University

  • Mention your program, interests, hobbies

  • Describe what kind of flatmate you'd be

  • Be genuine—authenticity attracts right matches

  Example effective profile: "Hi! I'm [Name] from [Country], starting my Master's in Digital Marketing at Steinbeis University in October. I'm friendly, responsible, and respectful of shared spaces. I love cooking, hiking, and discovering Berlin's culture. Looking for a welcoming WG where I can feel at home while studying and exploring this amazing city. Non-smoker, clean, and looking forward to becoming part of a great community!"

  Step 3: Conduct Intensive Search and Apply Actively

  Daily routine during active search:

  • Check all platforms multiple times daily (morning, midday, evening)

  • Respond to new listings within 1-2 hours if possible

  • Write personalized messages for each application

  • Track your applications (spreadsheet helps)

  • Follow up politely if you haven't heard back in 3-4 days

Volume matters:

• Apply to 20-30+ listings to secure 3-5 viewings

• Competition is real—don't get discouraged by silence

• Keep applying until you've signed a contract

Personalized application messages: Don't send generic messages. Mention specifics from the listing:

• Why this specific apartment/WG appeals to you

• Something about the current flatmates or apartment description

• Brief relevant detail about yourself

• Clear availability and move-in date

• Polite, friendly tone

Step 4: Attend Viewings and WG Interviews

Viewings for private apartments:

• Arrive exactly on time (punctuality matters in Germany)

• Dress presentably (neat casual)

• Bring application folder with all documents ready

• Ask relevant questions about apartment, utilities, contract

• Express genuine interest if you like it

• Be prepared for competition—other applicants may view simultaneously

WG interviews (Casting): WG interviews are more social—existing flatmates want to know if you'll fit their community:

• Be yourself—authenticity beats trying to be what you think they want

• Show interest in them (ask about their lives, interests)

• Be prepared to talk about yourself, studies, background

• Demonstrate you're responsible, respectful, clean

• Often includes casual socializing (coffee, beer)

• Don't be too formal or stiff—they want a friendly flatmate

What to bring to any viewing:

• Passport/ID

• Enrollment confirmation from Steinbeis

• Proof of financial resources (blocked account statement)

• Previous landlord references if available (not essential for students)

• Be prepared to fill out Selbstauskunft (self-disclosure form)

Step 5: Navigate the Application and Contract Process

If landlord/WG wants you:

For private apartments:

1. Submit complete application (Bewerbungsmappe)

2. May need Schufa report (Bonitätsprüfung)—explain you're just arrived if you don't have

3. Landlord conducts background check

4. If approved, receive rental contract (Mietvertrag)

5. Review contract carefully (Steinbeis can help if needed)

6. Sign contract and pay deposit + first month's rent

7. Receive keys and move-in confirmation

For WG rooms:

1. Existing flatmates make decision (usually informal)

2. Sign simple sublease agreement or join main lease

3. Pay deposit (typically 1-2 months' rent)

4. Arrange move-in date

5. Get keys from landlord or flatmates

Deposit (Kaution):

• Typically 2-3 months' rent for private apartments

• 1-2 months' rent for WG rooms

• Landlord must keep in separate account

• Returned when you move out (minus any damages)

• This is standard and legally protected

Step 6: Complete Move-In and Registration

Moving in:
Document apartment condition with photos (important for getting deposit back)

• Complete move-in protocol (Übergabeprotokoll) noting any existing damage

• Receive all keys

• Get landlord contact information

Anmeldung (Residence Registration): Within 14 days of moving in, you MUST register your address:

• Get landlord to sign Wohnungsgeberbestätigung (landlord confirmation)

• Go to local Bürgeramt with passport, rental contract, form

• Receive Meldebescheinigung (registration confirmation)

• This document is essential for residence permit, bank accounts, everything

Understanding German Rental Contracts and Your Rights

German rental law strongly protects tenants, but understanding your contract is essential.

Types of Contracts

Unbefristet (Unlimited Contract):

• No specified end date

• Standard for long-term rentals

• Tenant can terminate with 3 months' notice typically

• Landlord can only terminate under specific legal circumstances

• Most favorable for tenants

Befristet (Fixed-Term Contract):

• Specified end date (e.g., one year)

• Landlord must have legal justification for fixed term

• Cannot be terminated early without mutual agreement usually

• Less common and sometimes legally questionable

Untermiete (Sublet):

• You're renting from main tenant, not landlord directly

• Common in WG situations

• Usually more flexible

• Ensure it's legal sublet with landlord permission

Rent Components

Kaltmiete (Cold Rent):

• Base rent without utilities

• The number stated in contracts

Nebenkosten (Utility Costs):

• Heating, water, trash, building maintenance

• Typically €100-250 depending on apartment size

• Can be estimated monthly amount with yearly reconciliation

Warmmiete (Warm Rent):

• Kaltmiete + Nebenkosten

• Total you pay monthly

• What you should budget for

Example:

• Kaltmiete: €600

• Nebenkosten: €150

• Warmmiete: €750 (your actual monthly cost)

Your Rights as Tenant

German law protects tenants:

• Landlord cannot arbitrarily increase rent

• Rent increases limited by law (typically max 15-20% every 3 years)

• Landlord cannot enter without permission except emergencies

• You can terminate with notice period (usually 3 months)

• Deposit must be returned (minus legitimate deductions for damage)

• Landlord must maintain apartment in livable condition

Your responsibilities:

• Pay rent on time

• Maintain apartment in reasonable condition

• Not disturb neighbors

• Respect quiet hours (typically 22:00-07:00 and Sundays)

• Get permission for any structural changes

• Properly sort trash (Germans take recycling seriously)

Avoiding Scams and Staying Safe

Unfortunately, housing scams targeting international students exist. Protect yourself:

Common Scam Red Flags

NEVER send money before seeing apartment and signing legitimate contract:

• "Send deposit to secure apartment before viewing" = SCAM

• "Landlord is abroad, will send keys after payment" = SCAM

• "Western Union or other wire transfer required" = SCAM

• Prices far below market rate = Usually SCAM

• Landlord can't meet in person or video call = Suspicious

Legitimate process:

1. View apartment in person (or via verified video call)

2. Meet landlord or agent in person

3. See their ID and verify ownership

4. Sign contract in person

5. Then pay deposit and rent

Verification Steps

Before committing:

• Google the address—does it exist?

• Search the photos—are they stolen from other listings?

• Verify landlord identity (ask for ID)

• Visit apartment in person whenever possible

• Read contract carefully (get help from Steinbeis if needed)

• Check if rental price is realistic for neighborhood

Trust your instincts:

• If something feels wrong, walk away

• Too good to be true usually is

• Pressure to decide immediately is red flag

• Professional landlords are patient and transparent

Steinbeis support:

• We can help verify if opportunities seem legitimate

• Connect you with trusted landlords and platforms

• Review contracts if you're unsure

• Provide guidance if you encounter suspicious situations

Cost Breakdown: What to Budget for Housing

Understanding total housing costs helps you budget realistically.

Initial Costs (One-Time)

Security Deposit:

• 2-3 months' rent for private apartments

• 1-2 months' rent for WG rooms

• Example: €600 rent = €1,200-1,800 deposit

• Returned when you move out

First Month's Rent:

• Pay in advance when signing contract

• Sometimes pro-rated if moving in mid-month

Agency Fee (if applicable):

• If you used rental agency: 1-2 months' rent plus VAT

• Not common for direct landlord rentals or WGs

• Student residences typically don't charge agency fees

Moving Costs:

• Furniture if apartment unfurnished: €500-2,000

• Transport/moving service: €50-200

• Initial household items: €100-300

Total initial cost example:

• Deposit: €1,500

• First month rent: €750

• Basic furniture/items: €800

• Total: ~€3,050

Monthly Costs

Rent (Warmmiete):

• WG room: €400-700

• Studio: €700-1,000

• 1-bedroom apartment: €900-1,200

Utilities (if not included):

• Electricity: €30-50

• Internet: €20-40

• GEZ (TV/Radio tax): €18.36 (mandatory for every household)

Other housing-related:

• Household supplies: €20-40

• Laundry (if no in-unit washer): €10-20

Money-Saving Tips

• Choose WG over private apartment (save €300-500/month)

• Live in less central neighborhoods (save €100-200/month)

• Share utilities with flatmates

• Buy second-hand furniture (eBay Kleinanzeigen, Facebook Marketplace)

• Use discount grocery stores (Lidl, Aldi, Netto)

• Take advantage of student discounts for various services

Your Action Plan: Housing Search Strategy

2-3 Months Before Arrival: ☐ Research Berlin neighborhoods and identify preferences
☐ Set realistic housing budget
☐ Join Facebook groups and start monitoring platforms
☐ Contact Steinbeis for housing support resources
☐ Decide: secure housing remotely or search in-person after arrival

1-2 Months Before Arrival: ☐ Create profiles on WG-Gesucht and other platforms
☐ Begin active searching and applications
☐ Prepare application documents (enrollment confirmation, financial proof, etc.)
☐ If booking temporary housing: reserve 2-3 weeks accommodation
☐ Connect with current Steinbeis students for advice

Upon Arrival (if searching in person): ☐ Settle into temporary accommodation
☐ Register temporary address if required
☐ Attend viewings and WG interviews
☐ Act quickly when you find suitable option
☐ Review contracts carefully before signing

After Securing Housing: ☐ Sign contract and pay deposit + first month rent
☐ Complete move-in inspection with photos
☐ Register address at Bürgeramt within 14 days
☐ Set up utilities if not included
☐ Arrange internet connection
☐ Settle in and focus on your studies!

Conclusion: Your Home in Berlin Awaits

Finding accommodation in Berlin as an international student requires effort, patience, and persistence—but thousands of students successfully navigate this process every year and find great places to live in one of Europe's most vibrant, diverse, and exciting cities.

While Steinbeis University doesn't provide on-campus housing, we provide something equally valuable: comprehensive support, trusted resources, experienced guidance, and a community of current students who've been through exactly what you're experiencing. You're not navigating Berlin's housing market alone.

Remember that finding housing is just one step in your journey. Once you're settled in your Berlin home—whether it's a cozy WG room in Kreuzberg, a quiet studio in Charlottenburg, or a student residence in Friedrichshain—you can focus on what really matters: your education, career development, and the incredible experience of studying and living in one of the world's most dynamic cities.

Berlin's housing market is challenging but manageable. With the right preparation, realistic expectations, strategic approach, and support from Steinbeis, you'll find your perfect place to call home during your studies.

Ready to start your housing search and your studies in Berlin? Apply to Steinbeis University, and we'll connect you with the resources, support, and guidance you need to find your home in Germany's capital.

Steinbeis University - Schools of Next Practices: Supporting your journey from application through finding your home in Berlin and beyond.