BSBI Hamburg provides guidance and support to help students find safe, convenient and comfortable accommodation while preparing for life in the city.
We recommend that students start researching accommodation one to two months before arriving in Germany. This will give you time to explore the different options available and prepare the necessary documents for your move.
Please note that accommodation is not included in programme fees. BSBI does not provide accommodation directly, but our accommodation team is happy to support you throughout your search.
BSBI works with a selection of accommodation partners and platforms that can help you find your new home in Hamburg:
Uniplaces is an online accommodation platform offering verified rooms and apartments for students and professionals. You can search and book accommodation online, including several months before your studies begin. BSBI student benefit: 40% discount on the service fee for your next booking. Ask our team for our promo code (must be applied during the booking process and cannot be added afterwards.)
Spotahome is a 100% online platform specialising in mid- to long-term rentals across Europe. Properties are checked by home checkers and include professional photographs, floor plans and video tours, allowing you to explore your accommodation online. BSBI student benefit: 30% discount on the reservation/service fee.
Erasmusu: Erasmusu is a student community offering accommodation options including rooms, apartments, studios and university halls
Erasmusu is a student community offering accommodation options including rooms, apartments, studios and university halls. BSBI student benefit: 30% discount. Please ask our team for our promo code.
If you prefer to search for accommodation independently, Hamburg offers a variety of options, including shared flats, private rooms, studios and apartments.
The rental market can be competitive, so we recommend checking new listings regularly and contacting suitable properties as soon as possible. Apartment viewings are also standard practice in Hamburg before signing a rental agreement.
Temporary accommodation can be useful when you first arrive in Hamburg. It gives you time to explore the city, attend apartment viewings and prepare the documents needed for a long-term rental.
Options include:
Finding long-term accommodation before arriving in Hamburg can help you settle into the city immediately. If you need to search after arriving, be prepared to act quickly as the rental market is competitive.
Popular accommodation options include:
Average monthly prices
Accommodation prices in Hamburg vary depending on the neighbourhood. When choosing where to live, consider factors such as:
BSBI’s Hamburg Campus campus is located in the Otto von Bahrenpark area, with Bahrenfeld and Altona being the closest stations. The campus is approximately a five-minute tube ride from Altona railway station.
Student residences can be a great option for meeting other students and becoming part of a community. They can offer shared rooms, private rooms and studios.
As student residences are popular, we recommend contacting them several months in advance. Some residences also operate waiting lists.
THE FIZZ Hamburg has two locations: THE FIZZ Hamburg Altona & THE FIZZ Hamburg Hammerbrook. Both offer fully furnished single or double apartments for semester or annual stays.
Residents can also enjoy communal facilities including:
Additional services include reception support, parcel collection, all-inclusive monthly rent and regular resident events.
STACEY offers a co-living concept combining private, fully furnished suites with shared communal spaces.
Facilities include a shared kitchen, dining area and lounge, providing opportunities to socialise with other residents.
When applying for long-term accommodation, you may be asked to provide:
When searching for accommodation online, always be cautious when making payments.
Do not transfer rent, deposits or other payments until you have signed a contract and obtained the keys to the property.
Online accommodation scams can occur, so always verify the property and landlord before making any payment.
A deposit, known as Kaution, is normally required when renting accommodation in Germany.
The deposit is usually two to three months’ rent. For example, if your monthly rent is €500, you may need to pay a deposit of approximately €1,500.
The deposit is held by the landlord during your tenancy and is normally returned when you leave, provided the property is left in good condition.
Anmeldung is the process of registering your address with the local authorities in Germany.
Once registered, you receive a Meldebescheinigung, which may be required for important administrative processes such as:
Registration must be completed in person.
Book an appointment online at a Kundenzentrum and select:
Then select your preferred location and appointment time.
You will need:
The guide lists an administration fee of €13.
Your SCHUFA record is a German credit report that provides information about your financial history and creditworthiness.
You may need this document when applying for accommodation.
The BSBI guide explains how to request a free SCHUFA record through the SCHUFA website.
Finding accommodation in a new city can be challenging, especially when moving from abroad. BSBI is happy to support you throughout your accommodation search and provide guidance on the options available.
Start your accommodation search early and make sure you understand all costs and rental conditions before signing a contract.
For accommodation support:
Email: admin.hamburg@berlinsbi.com
Tel: +49 3092 1095 111
