As a student in Karlsruhe, a room in a shared flat or in a student dormitory is an affordable option. We can offer some students, but not all, a place in a dormitory. However, since there are not enough rooms available, it's important to look for a room early in advance, preferably immediately after confirmation of your university place at the DHBW, as it's not easy to find a room in Karlsruhe.
Rooms in shared apartments are often offered for a limited time. You have better chances to get one of these than a permanent one. The exact rental period must then be agreed with the landlord. For the rent, you should calculate € 400 - 600 per month.

The dormitory rooms can only be rented for a minimum of 6 months. If you leave earlier, you have to pay the rent for the remaining months if you don’t cancel your contract on time. The regular period of notice for the cancellation of the dormitory rooms according to the rental contract is three months.

You will have your own single room in an apartment shared with 3 - 6 other students with shared kitchen and bathroom. The room contains a bed + bedclothes, closet, chair and desk. The rent includes services like water, gas, electricity and W-LAN. The rent for the room is between € 300 - 400 per month, the refundable security deposit is € 450 - 500.

In addition to the halls of residence of the Studierendenwerk, Karlsruhe also has other halls of residence run by other organizations, where rooms are available for rent at reasonable rates. You can apply for a room here, even if you have not been offered a room in a Studierendenwerk hall of residence!

Halls of residence of other organizations:

• Hadiko 
• ABH & RSH Wohnheime
• Hermann-Ehlers-Kolleg 
• Domus 7  
• Insterburg 
• Hans-Freudenberg-Kolleg

Please note that the halls of residence mentioned above are mostly self-managed halls of residence. Here, the students take on many important tasks themselves and the community in the hall of residence plays a major role. If you want to socialize with other students, enjoy cooking together, meeting up for a beer in the kitchen and are willing to get involved in the community, this is a good option for you. It's usually the students who decide who gets a room and not an external administration.

Other websites to find a room in a shared flat:

• wg-gesucht
• Immobilienscout24
• Kleinanzeigen (local buying and selling platform, where rental offers can also be found)

Websites of the Studierendenwerk Karlsruhe (student union Karlsruhe):

• Private Accommodation Service
• Other options where to stay (e.g. hostels, housing partnerships...)

Rental scams!

Students can sometimes be victims of dubious housing providers. Students are required to pay an amount in cash or by bank transfer in advance if they want to receive the rental contract. We strongly advise not to pay the landlord – especially if it's a stranger – in order to receive the rental contract. Usually, then the money is gone. 

Tips to avoid scams:

1. Research the listing: Thoroughly research any flat listings you come across. Check if the property exists by using online maps and verify its authenticity by comparing the details provided with other credible sources.

2. Avoid untrustworthy offers: If a flat is being offered at an unbelievably low price, it could be a red flag. Scammers often use attractive pricing to lure unsuspecting individuals. Be wary of such offers and verify the authenticity of the landlord or agent.

3. Beware of advance payments: NEVER (!) make any advance payments or wire money before signing a lease or visiting the property. Scammers often pressure individuals into making quick payments, claiming it's necessary to secure the flat. Legitimate landlords will allow you to view the property before any financial transactions occur.

4. Secure a written agreement: Always insist on a written rental agreement that clearly outlines the terms and conditions of your tenancy. Review the contract thoroughly and seek legal advice if needed to ensure you understand all the clauses and obligations.

5. Ask somebody! If something feels off or too good to be true don't hesitate to seek advice from trusted friends, family, university housing services or the International Office at DHBW if you have any doubts or concerns.

If you are not sure if it's a serious offer, please contact us. We may be able to meet the owner and make sure that the room or flat exists and the offer is not a scam.