We would like to give you a few hints and tips for looking for an apartment at the beginning of your studies. It is important to know what types of accommodation are available, what the process is and what you can do once you have found an apartment or room. You can find this information on looking for a flat and room in Germany here and again in detail in our brochure.
I'm starting my studies. where can i live
It is best to look for a room or an apartment in your place of study or in the surrounding area before you start your studies. Many students like to live in student halls of residence or in a private room in a flat-sharing community (WG).
Both options offer rapid integration into the local student community. You can improve your language skills and get to know student life from different perspectives.
What is a shared flat (WG)?
A shared flat is "a group of people who live as a community (with a common household) in a house or apartment" (DUDEN).
Shared flats are very popular with students as costs are reduced by splitting the rental price among the roommates. This is not the norm in many countries, so here are some tips and tricks for living in a shared flat.
What are the advantages of a flat share?
price advantage
WGs are cheaper than small 1-room apartments.
Additional costs such as water, electricity, rent and internet are shared.
There are often large common areas (kitchen, living room).
Exchange
The typical shared life is shaped by the different interests and characteristics of the residents - e.g. cooking together.
Contact with other students and always in good company.
You and your roommates are there for each other.
language
You can improve and actively use your German skills in everyday life.
experience
The period of study is one of the most significant, creating unforgettable experiences and often lifelong friendships.
Where can I find a flat share?
You can find a shared room (or other apartment offers) on the following websites, for example:
https://www.immobilienscout24.de/
It is also worth looking for current flat-sharing ads on campus or at university organizations. These often hang on information boards or bulletin boards with the contact details of the WG.
Ask friends and acquaintances or look on social media, for example in Facebook groups. Here it is worth searching for such groups with keywords such as "WG Gießen ", "Friedberg apartment". You can also post your own search here.
You can find more options for looking for a flat share in our brochure.
I've found a suitable flat share advert - what now?
If you have found a flat share that seems suitable to you, get in touch. Usually by email or WhatsApp. Write a friendly and personal message to the shared flat and introduce yourself. If the WG finds you suitable and likeable, you will be invited to a meeting ("WG casting") to view the apartment and get to know the flatmates.
You can find more information and example texts in our brochure.
Can I also live in a student residence?
The Studentenwerk Gießen rents around 3,000 places in different types of dormitories, such as single rooms, single and double apartments or family apartments in Gießen and Friedberg.
In order to get a room at the Gießen student union, an application is required. As there are usually many students applying for a room, there is no guarantee that you will be able to get a place and move in quickly.
Further information and online application can be found directly in the area Accommodation at the student union.