Student life in Germany: Housing, transportation & culture

Student life in Germany is always attractive thanks to the top education system, multicultural environment and opportunities for new experiences. In addition to studying at quality universities, international students can also explore daily life through choosing accommodation, using modern public transport and integrating into German culture.

I. Is the cost of living in Germany expensive?

1. Average monthly living expenses by region

2. Detailed spending budget table

3. Tips to save living expenses effectively

• Choose smart housing

Dormitories and shared rooms (WG) are always much cheaper than private apartments. Sharing not only saves on rent and electricity, water, and internet costs, but also helps you make friends and integrate more easily into the new environment. This is also a way to avoid feeling lonely when you first arrive in Germany.

• Cook at home instead of eating out

Shopping and cooking for yourself will help you save on meals by only 3–5 EUR, while eating out usually costs 10–15 EUR. If you take advantage of promotions at supermarkets like Aldi, Lidl, Penny, you will save significantly while still ensuring nutrition. In addition, cooking with friends is also an opportunity to share culture and bond more.

• Take advantage of student discounts

The Semesterticket allows unlimited travel within the region without the need to buy additional tickets. In addition, health insurance for students under 30 years old is only about 110–130 EUR/month, much cheaper than the regular package. Thanks to that, you can save money and still be guaranteed the necessary benefits when living in Germany.

• Buy second-hand and hunt for sales

Many second-hand stores, flea markets and apps like eBay Kleinanzeigen or Vinted offer cheap prices on clothes, furniture and school supplies. In addition, German stores often have big seasonal sales, allowing you to buy quality goods at low prices. Taking advantage of second-hand sources also contributes to protecting the environment and living greener.

II. What type of accommodation should you choose in Germany when studying abroad?

When studying in Germany, housing costs are the largest part of an international student’s total monthly expenses. Choosing the right type of accommodation not only helps you save money, but also directly affects your learning experience and ability to integrate. The three most popular types of accommodation for international students in Germany are dormitories (Studentenwohnheim), shared rooms (WG – Wohngemeinschaft) and private apartments (Wohnung).

1. Dormitoryxá (Studentenwohnheim)

Dormitories are considered the most economical option for international students in Germany, with an average cost of 250–400 EUR/month, depending on the city. Dormitories are usually small in size, but fully equipped with basic amenities and are often located close to schools.

The biggest advantages are low costs, convenient location and the opportunity to make international friends. However, due to limited number of rooms, you need to apply early through Studentenwerk - the student support organization in Germany.

2. Shared room (WG - Wohngemeinschaft)

WG is a form of living in a shared apartment with many other people, each person has their own room but shares the living room, kitchen and bathroom. The average cost ranges from 300–500 EUR/month, depending on the city and the size of the apartment. This is a choice that balances savings and comfort.

Living in a WG helps you practice independent living skills, expand your network of friends, and is especially useful for improving your German or English through daily communication. The downside is that you need to be flexible and adaptable when living with many different personalities.

3. Private apartment (Wohnung)

If you want absolute privacy and a comfortable space, a private apartment is the ideal choice. The average rent is 500–700 EUR/month, even higher in big cities like Munich, Frankfurt or Hamburg. In addition to the rent, you will have to pay additional costs such as electricity, water, internet and service fees.

The advantage of living in a private apartment is that you have complete control over your living space, schedule and lifestyle. However, the obvious disadvantage is the high cost, which can easily create financial pressure if you do not have a scholarship or a stable part-time job.

III. Traffic and travel in Germany

1. "Treasure" of International Students: Semesterticket

When studying in Germany, the Semesterticket is an indispensable transport card for international students. This is a ticket issued by the university along with the semester tuition fee, allowing you to travel for free or at a low cost on most public transport in the city or the entire state where you are studying.

With the Semesterticket, international students in Germany can freely use buses, underground trains (U-Bahn), underground trains (S-Bahn) and inter-regional trains (Regionalbahn) without having to worry about daily travel expenses. This is truly a "treasure" that helps save costs and creates maximum convenience when living and studying in Germany.

2. Main public transport

System public transport in GermanyFamous for being modern, punctual and having wide coverage. Popular means include:

• U-Bahn (subway):fast, convenient for moving in big cities
• S-Bahn (skytrain):connecting the center with the suburbs.
• Bus and tram:Suitable for short distances, service at night.
• Regionalbahn (regional train):economical solution when wanting to travel between neighboring cities.

Thanks to the development of German public transport, international students do not need to buy their own car but can still travel easily and economically.

3. Travel and bicycle culture

In addition to public transport, bicycles are also an important part of student life in Germany. Cities such as Berlin, Hamburg, Munich or Leipzig all have their own bicycle lanes, which are safe and convenient. The culture of commuting by bicycle is not only cost-effective, but also environmentally friendly and good for health.

However, international students need to obey German traffic laws, such as driving in the correct lane, using headlights and bells, to avoid being fined. This is also a way to help you quickly integrate into German traffic culture.

IV. Secrets to cultural and community integration in Germany

1. Cultural aspects to note to avoid "Culture Shock"

When first arriving in Germany, many international students experience culture shock due to the significant differences in lifestyle. Germans are known for being punctual, straightforward, and placing a high value on privacy. For example, being late for study group appointments or classes is considered disrespectful.

In addition, the communication culture is quite direct, not as roundabout as in Vietnam. Understanding and accepting this difference will help you reduce culture shock and quickly integrate into life as a student in Germany.

2. Study culture at German universities

German academic culture places a strong emphasis on independence and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to conduct their own research, participate in discussions, and question their instructors. At German universities, you don’t just study for grades, but also develop analytical skills and teamwork.

In addition, the study schedule is usually not too tight, but the amount of self-study is very large, requiring international students to manage their time effectively. Understanding the study culture in Germany will help you adapt faster and achieve better results during your study abroad.

3. Make friends and build international relationships

One of the most valuable experiences of studying in Germany is making international friends. You can meet people from all over the world in your classes, dormitories or student clubs. This is not only an opportunity to practice your foreign languages ​​(German and English), but also helps you broaden your global cultural perspective.

In addition, although Germans may seem reserved at first, once you get to know them, they are extremely sincere and trustworthy. Building international relationships not only enriches your study abroad experience, but also lays the foundation for your future career if you want to work in Europe.

V. Part-time job opportunities and regulations

1. Latest regulations on overtime hours and income limits

When studying in Germany, international students are legally allowed to work part-time but must strictly comply with German part-time employment regulations. According to current law, international students are allowed to work a maximum of 120 full-time days or 240 part-time days in a year. If you want to work more than this number of hours, you need to apply for a special permit from the Employment Agency (Agentur für Arbeit) and the Foreigners' Office (Ausländerbehörde).

In terms of income, the minimum wage in Germany is currently around 12 EUR/hour (latest update). International students can earn an average of 450 EUR - 1,000 EUR/month depending on the workload. However, if your total income exceeds 10,908 EUR/year, you may have to pay additional taxes and social insurance.

2. Popular types of part-time jobs

• Part-time job in restaurant/cafe

This is the most popular job for new students because it does not require a high level of German. You can work as a waiter, busboy, simple bartender or dishwasher. The job brings a stable income, helps you quickly integrate into the living environment, and at the same time practice basic communication skills with German customers.

• Teaching assistant or work at the school library

With good academic achievements, you can apply for a job at the university, assisting lecturers or arranging documents in the library. This is a light job, associated with the academic environment, helping you improve your research ability and accumulate more professional experience. Moreover, you also have the opportunity to expand your relationships with teachers and international friends.

• Jobs in retail stores or supermarkets

Positions such as cashier, sales staff or merchandise arranger are very suitable for students who want to have a fixed shift. The salary is not too high but stable, at the same time you can improve your German skills when regularly communicating with local customers. This is also an environment that helps you practice patience and customer service skills.

• Tutor (Nachhilfe)

If you are good at English, Math, or other subjects, you can tutor students in Germany. This is a job that is flexible in terms of time, has a pretty attractive income, and does not require much travel. In addition, teaching also helps you consolidate your personal knowledge, improve your pedagogical ability, and develop clear and logical presentation skills.

VI. Things to note when studying abroad in Germany in 2025

• Prepare complete documents and papers early

Visa application, admission letter, language certificate and health insurance are all mandatory documents. If you do not prepare them or submit them late, you may have to postpone your studies or lose the opportunity to enroll at your chosen school. Therefore, please check the list of required documents from the German Embassy and the university carefully to avoid mistakes.

• Make a clear financial plan

Although the cost of living in Germany is lower than many other European countries, you still need to prove your finances and have a stable source of income. Open a blocked account (Sperrkonto) in accordance with regulations to ensure visa issuance and to be proactive in your daily life. A reasonable spending plan will help you study with peace of mind without worrying too much about money.

• Adapting to German language and culture

TGerman is the key to your quick integration, from daily communication to finding a part-time job. In addition, learning about German culture in advance will help you avoid “culture shock” and easily build international friendships. Actively participating in language classes and extracurricular activities will help you quickly feel “at home”.

• Balance between study and part-time job

Many international students are often caught up in part-time work to cover expenses, which affects their academic performance. You should prioritize your study schedule, choose a job that fits your schedule and comply with the overtime limit for international students. A good balance will help you earn extra income while ensuring your academic performance.

Conclusion

Studying in Germany is not only a journey of learning but also an opportunity to live and experience a rich culture. From choosing a place to live, getting acquainted with the transportation system to integrating into the community, every experience is a valuable lesson. If you prepare carefully and are ready to accept, life as an international student in Germany will definitely become a memorable part of your youth.