Living in Bamberg: Information on the Search for Accommodation
The search for accommodation in Bamberg can take a lot of time. It is therefore highly recommended to start with the search for accommodation as early as possible. As soon as you have received your admission letter, you should take action.
Halls of Residence/Student Dormitories
Halls of residence/student dormitories are a popular option for international students as they are often furnished and affordable.
Application and providers
Please note that the university does not manage any halls of residence/student dormitories of its own. Those who wish to apply for a room in a hall of residence/student dormitory must take up direct contact with the respective providers:
- Studierendenwerk Würzburg (largest local provider)
- Collegium Oecumenicum Bamberg (COE)
- Joseph-Stiftung Bamberg
- Baugenossenschaft für den Stadt- und Landkreis Bamberg e.G.
- Stadtbau GmbH Bamberg
- Academic Residence
- Please note: This list is for information purposes only and is not a recommendation.
On-site support: In most halls of residence/student dormitories (especially those operated by the Studierendenwerk and the COE), there are tutors who assist you. They are happy to support you when you arrive and with your initial orientation.
Beginning of Rental Contract and terms
- Beginning of Rental Contract: The date of the beginning of the rental contract is set by the hall of residence owner and is non-negotiable:
- 1 October: for the winter semester
- 1 April: for the summer semester
- Payment obligation: This means that you have to pay the rent even if you arrive in Bamberg later.
- Duration: The rental contract is for a minimum duration of one semester (six months).
- Security deposit: In addition to the monthly rent, each tenant is required to make a security deposit once at the beginning of the rental contract. The deposit can only be refunded in full if the room is handed over in its initial condition. This might mean, for example, that you have to paint the room’s walls when moving out.
Rooms and Furnishings
- Room categories: Options include single apartments as well as double apartments or three-room apartments (the double and three-room apartments have a common entrance with shared kitchen and bathroom but separate internal doors that can be locked individually).
- Basic furnishings: Included in basic furnishings are a wardrobe, desk, bed with mattress, chair, and one bookshelf.
- Not included (must be brought along): Bed linens (bed sheets, duvet covers, pillows, blankets), towels, and kitchen utensils (pots, pans, plates, cutlery).
- Running costs: The rent includes a fixed charge for water and electricity (Betriebskosten). Residents who use more than is covered by this rate have to pay the difference according to the final invoice which is issued when moving out.
- Washing machines: Specific to the use of the washing machines and dryers in halls of residence/dormitories operated by the Studierendenwerk Würzburg: Use is only possible with a University of Bamberg student identity card that has been topped up with money before use.