Frankfurt

1. Types of Student Housing in Frankfurt

a. Student Dormitories (Studentenwohnheime)

• Description: These are managed by the student services organization (Studentenwerk Frankfurt) or private organizations. They are affordable and specifically designed for students.
• Features: Options range from single rooms with shared facilities (kitchen, bathroom) to fully furnished studio apartments.
• Pros: Affordable, student-friendly environment, often located near universities or with good public transport connections.
• Cons: High demand and limited availability; waiting lists are common.

b. Private Rentals (Einzelwohnungen)

• Description: Renting a private apartment is an option for students who prefer more independence.
• Features: Apartments can be furnished or unfurnished. Sizes range from small studios to larger apartments.
• Pros: Privacy and independence.
• Cons: Expensive, especially in central Frankfurt.

c. Shared Apartments (Wohngemeinschaften or WGs)

• Description: Shared apartments are very popular among students. You rent a room in an apartment and share common areas like the kitchen and bathroom with other tenants.
• Features: Rooms can be furnished or unfurnished.
• Pros: More affordable than private rentals, social environment, and shared costs for utilities.
• Cons: Compatibility with roommates can be a concern.

d. Homestays

• Description: Living with a local family in their home. This is less common but can be a good option for international students looking to immerse themselves in German culture.
• Features: Typically includes a private room and sometimes meals.
• Pros: Cultural exchange, potentially lower costs.
• Cons: Less independence.

e. Temporary Housing

• Description: Short-term options like hostels, hotels, or serviced apartments are useful if you need a place to stay while searching for permanent housing.
• Pros: Flexible and immediate availability.
• Cons: Expensive for long-term stays.

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2. Average Costs of Student Housing in Frankfurt

Frankfurt is one of the most expensive cities in Germany, so housing costs can be high. Below are approximate monthly costs:

• Student Dormitories: €250–€450
• Shared Apartments (WGs): €400–€700 per room
• Private Rentals: €700–€1,200 for a small apartment
• Homestays: €400–€600 (depending on the arrangement)
• Temporary Housing: €30–€80 per night (hostels) or €1,000+ per month (serviced apartments)

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3. How to Apply for Student Housing

a. Student Dormitories

1. Application Process:
   • Apply through the Studentenwerk Frankfurt website: https://www.studentenwerkfrankfurt.de.
   • Create an account and fill out the application form.
   • Specify your preferences (e.g., type of room, location).
2. Documents Required:
   • Proof of enrollment or admission letter from your university.
   • Copy of your passport or ID.
   • Recent passport-sized photo.
3. Tips:
   • Apply as early as possible, even before arriving in Frankfurt, as waiting lists can be long.
   • Check for application deadlines.

b. Private Rentals and Shared Apartments

1. Where to Search:
   • Online platforms: WG-Gesucht, Immobilienscout24, Immonet, and eBay Kleinanzeigen.
   • University notice boards or Facebook groups for students.
2. Documents Required:
   • Proof of income or a guarantor’s financial statement (e.g., parents’ income proof).
   • Copy of your passport or ID.
   • Schufa credit report (optional but often requested for private rentals).
   • Proof of enrollment (for student-specific rentals).
3. Tips:
   • Be cautious of scams, especially on online platforms. Never transfer money before seeing the apartment.
   • Attend viewings promptly, as demand is high.

c. Homestays

• Search for homestay options through platforms like Homestay.com or local agencies.
• Contact the host family directly and discuss terms.

d. Temporary Housing

• Book through platforms like Booking.com, Airbnb, or Hostelworld.
• Use this option only as a short-term solution while you secure permanent housing.

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4. Local Considerations and Tips

a. Housing Demand

• Frankfurt has a high demand for housing, so start your search as early as possible.
• Be flexible with your preferences (e.g., location, type of housing) to increase your chances.

b. Location

• Popular student areas include Bockenheim, Nordend, Sachsenhausen, and Bornheim.
• Consider proximity to your university and public transport connections.

c. Public Transport

• Frankfurt has an excellent public transport system (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, trams, and buses). A student semester ticket (Semesterticket) is often included in your university fees, allowing unlimited travel within the region.

d. Utilities and Additional Costs

• For private rentals and shared apartments, utilities (electricity, water, internet) may not be included in the rent. Budget an additional €100–€200 per month.
• In student dormitories, utilities are usually included in the rent.

e. Cultural Tips

• Germans value punctuality, so be on time for viewings or appointments.
• Be respectful of quiet hours (Ruhezeiten), typically from 10 PM to 6 AM.
• Recycling is taken seriously in Germany. Learn the local waste separation rules.

f. Contracts

• Always sign a rental contract (Mietvertrag) and read it carefully before committing.
• Ensure you understand the terms, including the deposit (Kaution), which is usually 2–3 months’ rent and refundable at the end of your tenancy.

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5. Additional Resources

• Studentenwerk Frankfurt: https://www.studentenwerkfrankfurt.de
• WG-Gesucht: https://www.wg-gesucht.de
• Immobilienscout24: https://www.immobilienscout24.de
• Goethe University Housing Office: https://www.uni-frankfurt.de

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6. Final Tips

• Be proactive and persistent in your search.
• Network with other students for leads on available housing.
• Consider joining student organizations or attending university events to meet people who might help you find housing.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the student housing market in Frankfurt. Good luck with your studies and your housing search!