6 Tips to Study in Berlin

Tip #1: Bring cash. Lots of it.

Filippa's first day in Berlin was a quintessential lesson in German practicality – always carry cash.

Berlin is surprisingly traditional when it comes to payments. Don't count on using your credit card everywhere, as many establishments still prefer "Bargeld" (cash).

Always have enough Euros in your wallet for a taxi ride or food.

Tip #2: Put yourself out there

Berlin is one of the most international cities in Europe. People are used to meeting students from all over the world, so don’t let a language barrier hold you back.

English is everywhere, especially among students and young people. So, start a conversation, join that student group, or introduce yourself at an event. Most people will appreciate your openness, and you'll be surprised how quickly connections form.

The more you put yourself out there, the faster you'll build friendships, grow your network, and feel at home in Berlin's student community.

Tip #3: Get ready for the bureaucracy

Paperwork is a big part of life in Germany. When you move to Berlin as an international student, you'll quickly discover that forms, documents, and appointments come with the territory.

Early on, you'll need to:

• Register your address (Anmeldung) at the local citizen's office (Bürgeramt)
• Open a German bank account
• Sign up for health insurance

Every step comes with its own set of forms, required documents (like your passport, visa, and proof of housing), and sometimes, long appointment waiting times.

It might feel overwhelming at first, but if you stay organized, plan ahead, and keep calm, you'll get through it. Consider it your official initiation into Berlin life — and once it’s done, everything gets a whole lot easier.

Tip #4: Learn a bit of German, it’ll take you far

You may be able to 'survive' in Berlin with just English — but learning a few basic German phrases will make your life so much easier (and locals will like you more).

Even small things like greeting shopkeepers or saying thank you in German show respect for the culture and can turn awkward moments into friendly ones.

Here are some common phrases that you can pick up:

• Danke = Thank you
• Entschuldigung = Excuse me
• Guten Tag = Good day/Hello
• Guten Abend/Nacht = Good evening/night
• Bis bald = See you soon
• Tschüss = Goodbye (informal)
• Ich heiße... = My name is...

Tip #5: Plan your shopping - stores close on Sundays

Here’s something that might surprise you when you move to Berlin: almost everything shuts down on Sundays. No grocery runs, no quick trips to the mall — it’s Ruhetag (rest day), and Berlin takes it seriously.

✅ So, make sure to stock up on groceries before Sunday rolls around.

For international students, this might feel like a bit of a shock at first. But honestly? It’s also kind of great. Sundays in Berlin are all about slowing down, relaxing, and enjoying the city in a different way.

It offers a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and explore one of Berlin's charming weekly markets, such as:

• Kollwitzplatz in Prenzlauer Berg
• The Turkish market along the Maybachufer in Neukölln

These markets are not only a source for fresh produce but also a vibrant part of Berlin's community life, where people gather to shop, enjoy delicious food, and sometimes even listen to live music.

💡 Pro tip: You can save a lot of money by using the ISIC, the International Student Identity Card, which offers over 150,000 discounts on food, transportation and leisure activities.

Tip #6: Find accommodation as early as possible

If you're planning to study in Berlin, start looking for a place to live as soon as possible. Here's why:

• Big city problems: Berlin is a popular city for students and workers worldwide. This creates intense competition for housing.
• Paperwork takes time. Renting in Berlin usually involves gathering a bunch of documents — things like proof of income, a SCHUFA (credit report), or a guarantor letter. As an international student, this process can feel extra tricky, so it’s best to give yourself a head start.
• Student dorms fill up fast. While some universities offer student housing, spots are limited and competition is fierce. The earlier you apply, the better your chances.
• Less stress. Sorting out your housing early means one less thing to worry about when you arrive. Instead of scrambling for a last-minute place, you'll be free to focus on your studies, meet new people, and explore the city.e to live.

Berlin attracts students from all over the world — and for good reason. But with its popularity comes tough competition for housing. Get ahead of the crowd, plan early, and set yourself up for a stress-free start to your Berlin adventure.

Conclusion

Studying in Berlin offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and academic excellence but comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities.

To navigate your study experience in Berlin successfully:

• Connect with new people
• Prepare for the bureaucracy by organizing necessary documents
• Learn basic German phrases to show respect for the local culture but also facilitate daily interactions
• Be mindful of the stores closing on Sundays, and plan your purchases accordingly
• Secure accommodation in advance due to high demand and the bureaucratic rental process

Read more about studying abroad in Germany

• Study in Germany: A Complete Guide for International Students
• University programs in Germany
• Advice for Studying Abroad in Germany