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Hallo! In this article, we tell you everything you need to know about student residences in Dresden, so you can decide if this is the ideal type of accommodation for you. We explain the advantages and disadvantages, as well as the differences between private and university residences. We also mention how to find affordable alternatives and answer some frequently asked questions about this type of accommodation.
Below we mention the most notable pros and cons of living in this type of housing:
Private student residences in Dresden are located in various areas that provide easy access to academic institutions and places of interest in the city. For example, some are located in the iconic Güntzpalast in the centre of Dresden, while others are in Neustadt, offering a variety of environments to suit students' preferences.
In terms of the types of accommodation they offer, they usually consist of shared flats with one, two or three bedrooms. These accommodations allow for more private space, with a single room and a shared bathroom and kitchen for those living on that floor. They’re usually fully furnished, so there’s no need to worry about anything before moving in.
The communal facilities in these private residences are usually quite modern, encouraging socialisation among residents. These include co-working spaces, gyms, cinema rooms and entertainment rooms. They also have laundry facilities, although each use incurs an extra charge. Some residences even have equipped terraces, offering panoramic views of the city and a space to enjoy the outdoors without leaving the residence.
Heating, electricity, water and security costs are usually included in the rental price. In addition, many properties also include Internet access throughout the building, as well as maintenance of the facilities.
In Dresden, as in most German cities, universities do not manage their own halls of residence; instead, there are organisations that offer public and subsidised student accommodation. In this city, the Studierendenwerk Dresden is responsible for this, with around 27 halls of residence in different parts of the city.
The accommodation options available in these university residences usually vary between single rooms and studio flats. Rooms are usually part of shared flats for two, three or more people, so they have a bathroom, kitchen and a small living room shared by the residents living there.
The common areas tend to be less varied than those offered by private residences. They usually consist of shared kitchens, study rooms, laundry rooms and bicycle storage areas. It’s worth noting that some of the residences run by the Studierendenwerk Dresden have been recently renovated, while others have not. This affects the facilities, which are more modern and welcoming if they have been renovated.
The services included in the rent cover heating, electricity and water, while services such as internet connection may be available depending on the residence. In addition, you should know that they are usually fully furnished, with a bed, wardrobe, desk, table and chair. However, they do not include bedding (duvet, sheets, pillow or towel) or kitchen utensils (crockery, glasses, bowls, cups, pans, etc.). The Studierendenwerk offers kits so that you have these items when you arrive, but there is an extra cost of around €35-45.
An important fact to bear in mind is that, normally, places for the winter semester tend to be in greater demand than those for the summer semester. However, in both cases, it’s advisable to apply for your place as soon as possible.
This institution has agreements with the Studentenwerk Dresden, so you’ll be able to apply for a place in their halls of residence as a student there. However, we recommend that you apply as soon as possible, as this will increase your chances of being accepted.
On the Erasmus Play search engine, you’ll find a variety of verified and private residence, flat, and room options. Our platform allows you to filter by price and features, making it easier to find your ideal affordable accommodation that meets all your preferences.
To live in a hall of residence, you must generally be enrolled at a recognised higher education institution in the city. You must complete an application through the Studentenwerk Dresden or the relevant organisation, providing documents such as your certificate of enrolment. Some accommodations may require proof of income or ability to pay. You may also be required to comply with specific rules of cohabitation and contract terms.
Yes, there are scholarship options for student accommodation in Dresden. The Erasmus+ programme offers financial aid that can partially cover accommodation costs for international students. In addition, the Studentenwerk Dresden receives public subsidies, which allows it to offer more affordable prices compared to private accommodation. Some universities also have specific financial assistance programmes.
In general, a room in a university hall of residence managed by Studentenwerk Dresden is usually cheaper than renting a room in a shared flat, as halls of residence are subsidised and include services. On the other hand, private halls of residence tend to be more expensive due to additional facilities such as gyms or recreation rooms. The cost of a room in a shared flat can vary depending on the location and the terms of the contract. In central neighbourhoods such as Neustadt, flat prices are usually higher.
It’s advisable to book several months in advance, especially for the autumn and winter semesters, when demand is highest. Ideally, you should start the process as soon as you confirm your admission to a university in the city. The Studentenwerk Dresden accepts applications throughout the year, but places are limited and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Applying early increases your chances of securing a place.
In Dresden, student residences managed by the Studentenwerk Dresden are not usually separated by gender; most are mixed and promote inclusive cohabitation among students. However, in specific cases, such as religious or private accommodation, there may be options exclusively for women or men.