Finding Accommodation in Aachen: A Guide for New Students | Daniel Villacís
Finding accommodation is always a bit tricky and can feel overwhelming when you are travelling to a completely new place. As you may already know, Aachen is a student city and has various types of accommodation. Our student Daniel Villacís (MME TIME full-time) has written a blog about finding accommodation and gives some tips and useful information for your upcoming search.
Finding accommodation
Looking for a place to stay in Aachen as you begin your master’s degree can feel overwhelming, but with some early planning, it can be much easier. I remember being in your shoes - navigating the search for the right accommodation in a new city. It wasn’t always simple, but with patience and preparation, it turned into a rewarding experience.
Aachen offers a variety of housing options to suit different needs and preferences. Here's what you need to know:
🏠 Housing Options in Aachen
You have several choices when it comes to accommodation:
- Student Dormitories: Affordable and convenient, but availability can be limited. These are a great option if you’re looking for budget-friendly housing close to campus.
- Shared Apartments (WG): A popular choice for students that allows you to share costs, meet people, and enjoy a communal living experience.
- Private Apartments: Ideal if you value more space and privacy, though they often come with a higher price tag.
Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, so consider what fits your needs and lifestyle best.
⏰ Start Your Search Early
The key to finding the right accommodation is starting early. Housing in Aachen is in high demand, especially before the semester begins. The earlier you start your search, the better your chances of securing a place that suits your needs. Trust me, starting early can make all the difference in reducing stress and ensuring a smooth transition.
🌐 Helpful Resources for Finding Housing
To make your search easier, here are some essential resources:
- RWTH Aachen’s Housing Page: A comprehensive guide to available housing options with practical tips for finding the best place to live. It’s an excellent starting point for your search.
This detailed guide offers in-depth information on accommodation types, costs, and advice on what to look for when choosing a place. It also highlights the best locations for students and provides insights to help you make informed decisions.
💡 Tips for a Smooth Move
- Be proactive: Start your search as soon as possible to avoid last-minute stress.
- Prioritize your needs: Consider what’s most important to you - proximity to campus, transport links, cost, or amenities.
- Stay flexible: Be prepared to adjust your expectations if needed, as finding the perfect place may take time.
🎯 Why Start Early?
Starting your search early gives you more options, reduces stress, and helps you settle into Aachen faster. Once your accommodation is sorted, you’ll have one less thing to worry about, leaving you free to focus on your studies and explore everything Aachen has to offer.
⚠️ Be aware of Housing Scams
5 ways to recognize scams when house-hunting:
- If it looks too good to be true, it probably is!.
- Don’t sign any contract before you’ve seen the place in real life.
- Don’t pay a deposit to “secure” the room/flat.
- Don’t trust a copy of a passport and don’t send yours.
- If they can’t prove they are the owner, they probably aren’t.
If you are not sure whether it is a scam, contact the Housing Office at email hidden; JavaScript is required.
Another advice: Check out the website of the International Office of the RWTH for more tips and a survival guide for international students.
