FAQ – Preparation: Accommodation

• IMPORTANT: If you are accepted into a study program in Darmstadt, a room is not automatically included (unless explicitly stated).
• In order to find a room/apartment in Darmstadt, you should allow sufficient time (several weeks is not uncommon). Start your accommodation search as early as possible.
• The Studierendenwerk Darmstadt has several  student residences. You can already  apply online for accommodation before your enrollment. Please be aware that the number of rooms/apartments is unfortunately very limited. Therefore, you should alwayssearch for other options at the same time.
• Popular websites to find a room/apartment are for example: www.wg-gesucht.de, www.immobilienscout24.de, www.studenten-wg.de
• Our comeTOgether  tutors will support you in searching and applying for private rooms/ apartments, and can send you a  list with private accommodation offers.
• For the first few days/weeks: You should have already booked accommodation before your arrival.
• You can get more tips on finding accommodation:
  • at our Social Counselling
  • in the compilation of the Accommodation Service:  Tips Accommodation
  • The AStA of the TU Darmstadt also offers some information regarding accommodation.
  • The “Katholische Hochschulgemeinde Darmstadt (KHG)” offers a free service for international students to accompany them to view rooms or shared flats. Their buddies assist with contacting potential landlords and accompany you when visiting the accommodation. International students can request the buddy service through the KHG.
  • International students at TU Darmstadt can also contact Welcome and Housing Services.
• Tip: PCs with free internet access can be found, among other places...
  • at TU Darmstadt: in Karo 5 - on the ground floor
  • in the Mensa Stadtmitte: in the waiting area of the housing service (1st floor)
  • in the ULB: on the ground floor, in front of the reception desk/entrance area

It depends on many factors, such as the choice of residences, your position on the waiting list, room availability, your budget, etc. You can inquire with the  Accommodation Service.

• The security deposit has to be paid before renting a room/apartment (normally together with the first rent). In case you are behind with your rent or you returned the rented accommodation in a “bad” condition, landlords can retain parts or all of the security deposit. You will get the security deposit back, when you vacate the room (unless there is good reason for the landlord to keep it, see above).
• The amount of the security deposit is usually 2-3 monthly rents, without expenses.

You should be sceptical of a given offer if:

• You are asked to transfer a deposit before signing a rental contract,
• You are asked to send money abroad,
• There is a fee for participating in a housing viewing,
• The rooms are in student fraternities/sororities. Make sure to gather information about the fraternity/sorority beforehand.

Also good to know:

• Security deposit payments should be contractually agreed upon and must always be acknowledged with a receipt
• The deposit will be returned at the earliest after the apartment handover

• If you can afford it, you can hire a  real estate agent  (fees: 2-3 months' rent excluding additional expenses/“Nebenkosten”).
• Important:  Book a temporary accommodation (youth hostel, hotel, guesthouse, etc.) before your arrival, at least for the first days/weeks.
• During the most challenging period of the housing market (Sept. – Nov.), this temporary solution may need to last longer. It's better to ask the accommodations if this option is available