Berlin

The length of stay in a student residence or student apartment depends on the individual housing provider. Many student residences in Berlin issue contracts on a semester or yearly basis. They are required to follow a so-called rotation principle, which is designed to give as many students as possible the chance to secure a place in the residence.

Neon Wood, for example, also offers rental contracts with a duration of one or two semesters—that is, for half a year or a full year. However, tenants have the option to extend their stay at any time by signing a follow-up contract. This makes it possible to live at Neon Wood for the entire duration of one’s studies. Whether for a long-term degree program or just a semester abroad, Neon Wood offers excellent flexibility and adapts to students’ needs.

The process can vary greatly. State-subsidized and therefore cheaper student residences often come with very long waiting times—typically three semesters or more. This means you may end up waiting at least 1.5 years before securing a place. The application process is usually not very digitalized and often involves several manual steps and hurdles.

Private student residences such as Neon Wood usually offer a much more tenant-friendly process with little to no waiting time. With more than 2,000 units across Germany, Neon Wood is among the most experienced and innovative operators of student apartments. The rental process is 100% digital. In just a few steps, the rental agreement can be completed entirely online: the prospective tenant selects their desired apartment on the website, enters their personal data into an online booking tool, and can then read and sign the rental contract directly online.

To rent at Neon Wood, you should be a student—or at least completing a voluntary social year, vocational training, a language course, or an internship.

Don’t have your certificate of enrollment yet? No problem! Simply upload your admission letter, registration, or any other proof you currently have into the booking portal. Your application will be reviewed individually. Since most students don’t have their enrollment certificate in time but still need to apply early for the highly sought-after Neon Wood student housing, this flexibility is crucial. If you don’t end up getting your place at university, you have a special right of termination—meaning there’s no risk for you.

The prices for furnished rooms in Berlin vary significantly depending on location, size, furnishings, and service level. In more affordable, outlying neighborhoods, rents for small micro-apartments start at around €600 per month. Centrally located, modern, fully furnished apartments with a high service level usually cost between €800 and €1,200 per month.

At Neon Wood, all-inclusive rents in Berlin start at €765 per month. The price includes fully furnished apartments, all utilities as a flat rate, high-speed internet, on-site staff, participation in events, and access to all communal areas, which may vary slightly depending on the location. However, every Neon Wood residence features at least a spacious community lobby, study areas, fitness facilities, and a community laundrette with additional amenities. In addition, some Neon Wood properties also offer shared kitchens, cinema rooms, and rooftop terraces for students to enjoy. A true all-round carefree package.

Student residences in Berlin are mainly searched for online. While the international offices of the respective universities also offer assistance, they usually have far too few capacities or reliable partners to help effectively. If you want a place in a state-subsidized residence through the Studierendenwerk, you will need a lot of patience—waiting times are often three semesters (about 1.5 years) or longer.

The process is usually much quicker and far less complicated with private providers of student housing. These apartments can often be found easily online via Google or Bing. They are also frequently listed on online platforms such as Housing Anywhere, Student.com, Spotahome, or Uniplaces. Applications are typically made directly with the provider.

Neon Wood, with more than 2,000 units across Germany, is one of the most experienced and innovative operators of student apartments. The rental process is 100% digital. In just a few steps, the rental agreement can be completed entirely online: the prospective tenant selects their desired apartment on the website, enters their personal details into an online booking tool, and can then read and sign the rental contract directly online.