Student housing before the semester: Many applicants, few dorm rooms

Affordable rooms are in short supply for students preparing to begin the winter semester in Halle and Magdeburg. The demand at both university locations exceeds the number of available dorm places.

In Halle, the Studentenwerk has received 852 applications for 530 rooms. A total of 309 applicants remain on the waiting list, and those who do not receive a place are due to receive a rejection from September 16. Demand and supply have changed little from the previous year.

The dormitories are especially attractive to students with limited funds. The cheapest room in Halle currently costs €218 a month, while the average total rent is €275. Applications remain open, and the Studentenwerk says applicants can improve their chances by staying flexible about the type of accommodation and the dormitory they choose.

Magdeburg is also experiencing strong demand. The Studentenwerk has received 1,220 applications for a place beginning October 1, although allocation is still under way. So far, 61 new leases have been signed for that date, with further offers possible. Available units in Magdeburg and at the Studentenwerk's second location in Wernigerode are generally fully rented, though individual rooms can become available during the semester when tenants move out.

The shortage has persisted for years, with student organizations reporting far more applications than places. International students often have particular difficulty finding housing on the open market. The state approved nearly €15.6 million late last year for 10 construction and modernization projects, creating a combined 422 places in locations including Halle, Stendal, Möckern, Naumburg and Harzgerode.