Saarbrücken in need: University is urgently looking for apartments for students!

Saarbrücken in need: University is urgently looking for apartments for students!

The housing situation for students in Germany is tense, especially in cities like Cologne and Saarbrücken. In the coming winter semester, many international students will be faced with the challenge of finding accommodation. The situation is particularly difficult in Saarbrücken, as the Saar University is urgently looking for housing for foreign students, especially from non-EU countries. The capacity of the dormitories is not sufficient, and the university's “Housing Office” offers support for newcomers in finding accommodation, but the housing market remains limited. Apartment owners who are willing to rent out their rooms are urgently needed, which is why interested owners can contact Saarland University to contribute to the solution.

What is the situation in Cologne? The biography of Öznur, a 24-year-old psychology student from Turkey, reflects the challenges that many international students face. Despite numerous rejections and fraudulent offers, she finally found a solution through the “Housing for Help” project. The innovative approach, in which students live with older landlords and help around the house, has proven to be particularly beneficial. Since then, Öznur has lived with a senior citizen in Cologne and supports her in everyday life. Not only does she benefit from favorable rental conditions, but she has also established a valuable social connection.

Challenges of finding accommodation

Finding accommodation in Germany can be a real challenge, especially for international students. In addition to the necessary student visa, accommodation is essential. A look at the different types of housing options in Germany shows that not all options are equally suitable. Around 40% of international students live in student halls of residence, which cost around 250 euros per month. This alternative offers low costs and the opportunity for socialization, but also comes with disadvantages such as little privacy and high demand. Shared apartments are another popular option, but the rental prices here are significantly higher, around 430 euros per person.

Many students often have to deal with unsafe and frustrating conditions. Dr. Susanne Preuschoff, head of the International Office at the University of Cologne, reports on the difficulties in accommodating new international students, especially since the pandemic, which has shrunk the pool of private landlords. The International Office even used empty hotels to accommodate homeless students, but this caused problems with enrollment.

Concrete solutions and support

In Cologne, around 10% of the population live as students, which makes the living situation even worse. The universities and the Housing Office work together to promote alternative projects such as “Housing for Help”. These initiatives are designed to overcome the language barrier that often represents an additional barrier to housing placement. Collaboration between generations creates a win-win situation that benefits both students and older people.

There are some useful tips for students who are making their way to Germany: It is advisable to start looking for accommodation early and to seek help from experienced friends or acquaintances. In addition, payments without a signed contract should be viewed carefully so as not to fall for fraudulent offers. Registering via online platforms such as Amber Student or UniPlaces are also a recommended option for finding suitable accommodation. The challenges are great, but with the right information and resources, moving to Germany can be successful.