Student housing shortage in Halle and Magdeburg: More applicants than places

Around a month before the start of the winter semester, many prospective students in Halle and Magdeburg are looking for affordable accommodation. But not everyone is likely to find what they are looking for in one of the cheap student halls of residence. The demand is greater than the supply at both university locations.

So far, 852 applications have been received in Halle for 530 available dormitory places, as the student union announced upon request. There are currently 309 applicants on the waiting list. Anyone who does not receive a place will receive a rejection from September 16th. Demand and the number of available rooms are largely unchanged compared to the previous year.

Dorm rooms from 218 euros

The halls of residence are particularly attractive for students with little money. In Halle, the cheapest place currently costs 218 euros per month, the average total rent is 275 euros. Applications are still possible at any time, explained the student union. Those who are flexible with their type of living and their choice of dormitory improve their chances.

There is also a huge rush in Magdeburg. The Studentenwerk currently has 1,220 applications for a place in a dorm on October 1st. The awarding process is still ongoing: So far, 61 new rental contracts have been concluded with this start date, and further offers could follow.

In principle, the available residential units in Magdeburg as well as at the Studentenwerk's second location in Wernigerode would be fully rented out. However, over the course of the semester, individual rooms could become available again and again as a result of moving out.

More living space planned for students

The problem has existed for a long time. For years, student unions have reported significantly more applications than available places. International students in particular often have difficulty finding accommodation on the open housing market.

The state is therefore promoting the construction and modernization of accommodation for students and trainees. At the end of last year, almost 15.6 million euros were approved for this. The money flows into ten projects with a total of 422 dormitory places, including in Halle, Stendal, Möckern, Naumburg and Harzgerode.