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Are you thinking of studying for a master’s in Berlin? Germany’s capital offers exceptional study experiences and a unique blend of history and modernity. While finding international student housing in the city can be challenging, with the right preparation, you can find your ideal accommodation in Berlin.
Berlin was once famously divided by a wall. Today, rather fittingly, it’s a city that combines opposing ideas and energies in one incredible city. It’s both historic and modern. Edgy and traditional. Artistic and business-oriented.
The legendary actress Marlene Dietrich once said that “Berlin is a banquet for the senses.” And it’s true. There’s something new to discover every day in Germany‘s capital city. Music, art, history, technology, and innovation intertwine in a city that rewards originality and boldness.
Berlin is also a place of learning, home to some of the best universities in Germany, and widely considered Germany’s key hub for startups and innovation. In 2025, the city commanded around 32% of the nation’s venture capital investments (€2.7 billion). This makes it an extremely attractive option for ambitious master’s students.
Finding the right place to live in Berlin during your studies can be a big challenge. With that in mind, here are five top tips to help you secure student accommodation in the city.
The key to finding good student housing in Berlin is to start early. The city’s housing market is very competitive, and that applies to student accommodation too. It’s very much on a first-come, first-served basis.
We advise you to start your search as soon as possible, ideally a full four months before the beginning of your master’s program. It’s a good idea to create profiles and set up alert notifications to Berlin’s main student accommodation platforms (see below). Sign up for Berlin students’ housing and accommodation newsletters to be the first to know when student housing in Berlin becomes available.
Don’t forget to ask people you know in Berlin if they have any leads to student accommodation. Often, you’ll find opportunities that others don’t know about through word of mouth.
Many of the best business schools and universities in Berlin offer their own student accommodation services, housing partnerships, or student hubs.
ESMT Berlin has recently enhanced its offering. It now has seven shared apartments close to the ESMT Berlin campus, including one reserved exclusively for women. The school also provides extensive advice on moving to Berlin to international students.
Berlin School of Business and Innovation (BSBI) has several accommodation partners offering residences at discounted rates for the school’s students. While it doesn’t offer on-campus housing, it partners with accommodation providers such as Edge Student Hub. They also offer extensive student housing information on online housing portals.
ESCP Business School has various campuses, including one in Berlin. While it doesn’t provide its own student accommodation, it offers access to the alumni-run platform ESCP Housing.
When studying for a master’s degree in Berlin, do your research and check each business school or university’s websites and social media pages to boost your chances of finding the right accommodation. Make use of your school’s network and services to get further housing advice. Many International Offices or student desks can offer further information about student accommodation.
There are numerous websites, platforms, and apps where you can find student housing in Berlin. Most student flats in Berlin are shared, also known as ‘Wohngemeinschaft’ or ‘WG’ in German.
Here are some of the most respected platforms to start your search:
Other useful rental housing providers include:
When searching on these platforms, be sure to do your own research and use your own judgment. They are all generally respected, but it’s important to consider all factors when choosing international student housing in Berlin. Get advice from friends and family members or other students to help inform your decision.
Social media is an excellent resource for finding apartments in Berlin. Search Facebook groups, join WhatsApp channels, and check online Reddit threads for Berlin accommodation.
Here are a few examples to get you started:
Online platforms offer real insights from other international students. They are valuable for finding tips, offers, and insider knowledge, the kind of things you don’t always find on traditional housing websites.
Be aware of scams when searching for student housing in Berlin, especially when renting from private landlords. Here are some of the things to be cautious of:
See the Berlin Housing page from the Berlin City Council for information and to seek confidential, free advice.
Keep in mind that Berlin is a large city and prices vary widely based on the neighborhood. In a nutshell:
These are only some of Berlin’s boroughs. There are plenty of other neighborhoods that may be the right fit for you. Generally, flats in the center of Berlin will be the most expensive, whereas flats on the outskirts of Berlin are more affordable. Berlin is highly diverse, and each neighborhood has its own unique character and advantages. Ultimately, choose the living situation that best fits your lifestyle and budget.
Berlin offers the perfect blend of exceptional education, vibrant culture, and career opportunities. It’s the kind of city that inspires you to reach your potential!
To make your Berlin study experience truly unforgettable, you need the right foundations. With planning, persistence, and a positive mindset, you’ll be able to locate the best international student housing in Berlin. What happens next is in your hands!
Get real insight into studying a master’s in Germany, explore schools, and read previous articles.
