An expat students’ guide to Berlin

Berlin might be a city rich in history, but it’s definitely young at heart. With an eclectic creative scene, a vibrant multicultural community, and a year-round calendar of events – not to mention a legendary party scene – it’s no wonder Berlin is such a popular destination for expat students.

So, if you’re considering studying abroad in Berlin, you’ve come to the right place. Here is your ultimate guide to living in Berlin as a student, with tips from expat students that currently call this awesome city home.

1. Firstly, why Berlin?

It’s not only Berlin’s thriving social scene that makes it such an appealing place to students, it’s also a great city to make business connections to grow professionally after your studies. For student Andrés, who came from Ecuador to study human-computer interaction at Technische Universität Berlin, it’s the combination of culture, business opportunities and social life that make the city so special. “I find Berlin a chill, international environment with a mix of history, party and start-up scene,” he says. “It’s a cool place to spend some time during your life.”

2. Registering in Berlin and making the move

If you’ve already done some research on moving to Berlin, chances are you’ve heard of the registration process (Anmeldung). You aren’t considered as an official resident in the city until you register, and the time it takes to get your paperwork completed and processed can take weeks. But don’t let that deter you! Ask officials as many questions as you need to and join some Facebook Groups or online forums where you can ask about the experiences of students that have done it before.

Be as organised as you can before your arrival to make settling in as smooth and speedy as possible. That means having all the paperwork ready to go for registration, as well as a clear budget in mind to guide your search for a place to live. Many student expats choose to go through the rental market as solo tenants or as part of a house-share to save money. Whatever you decide to do, it’s a good idea to research neighbourhoods and attractions before you arrive so you have an idea of places that appeal to your vibe.

3. Making friends

Although Berlin is a haven for students and young creatives, it can feel daunting to make new friends in a new city. HWR Berlin marketing student Fleur says that the important thing to remember is that there are many students who are or have been in the same position, so you’ll find that international students and locals alike are generally super friendly and happy to help you out. “Berlin is the least German-speaking city you will visit in the country, this makes it very easy to connect with the people who live here and to make a lot of new friends,” she says. “There are a lot of internationals who would like to meet new people and make new friends. My top tip is to join a Facebook group – sounds cringe at first, but is definitely a good way to meet new people.”

Diego, a student at Gisma Business School, arrived in Berlin from Mexico with friends, and he loves the fact that his circle has expanded (with a little help from The Social Hub!) “We started as a group of five and now we are a group of almost 12! We’ve met people from all over the world,” he explains. “When you live at a place like The Social Hub, it’s way easier to meet new people and hang out with them.”

Discover life at The Social Hub Berlin!

4. Exploring the city

Berlin has so much to see and do, and it’s easy to get around. “You can go out with your bike, take a bus, a U-Banh, an S-Bahn or just walk and you´ll get to most central places in minutes,” says Andres. For Fleur, a bike was the best way for her to acclimatise to the city quickly. “It is really important to get familiar with the city so you can eventually live your best life here,” she says. “If you want to settle down even easier just take a bike and explore everything.”

“And don´t panic if you feel like you still get lost on the U-Bahn or are not very familiar with German, or whatever it is that still makes you feel like a tourist,” adds Diego. “Eventually you will be able to say that you are a Berliner.”

5. Living like a local

Berliners are a very welcoming bunch, so we’re sure you’ll feel like a local in no time at all. While it’s possible to get by on English here, knowing a few common greetings and phrases will help. Hey, it can’t hurt to pick up a new language while you’re in town, right? “Most of the locals really appreciate it when you speak their language,” says Fleur. “Even some basic words and sentences are enough to make the best out of your stay.”

If you arrive in Berlin in the summer, make the most of the sunshine at one of the city’s many parks. “You´ll always feel like a local after going for a beer at a Späti or just hanging out at one of the many parks that Berlin has,” says Andres. “Mauerpark and Viktoriapark are my favourites. And always save time for a day trip to Wannsee.”

Another fun and easy way to get to know Berlin is through its food. And no one knows the best meal deals in town quite like Berlin’s students. “You must try a pizza at Pomodorino, the pulled pork sandwich at Chicago BBQ Williams, have brunch at Father Carpenter, a coffee at The Greens, and a beer at the BRLO Biergarten,” says Andres. For dessert, Fleur says it’s hard to pass on the ice cream at Duo near East Side Gallery. “They have the best Italian gelato and a lot of vegan options as well. But if you’re going on a Sunday morning, prepare yourself for a long line!”

Whenever you arrive, wherever you live and whatever you do during your time as a student in Berlin, be curious and be yourself!

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