Every October, Munich welcomes a new generation of students to its world-class universities — Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU), Technical University of Munich (TUM), and Munich University of Applied Sciences (HM).
While the start of university life brings excitement, it also presents challenges: high rents, complex transport systems, and the search for community in one of Germany’s largest cities.
The winter semester 2025/26 at the University of Applied Sciences began on October 1, while lectures at LMU and TUM start on October 13.
With campuses spread across the entire city — from Garching in the north to Sendlinger Tor in the centre — students quickly learn that public transport and bicycles are the most practical options.
Munich’s transport company MVG offers a discounted Deutschlandticket for students at €38 per month, available with proof of enrolment.
It covers local and regional transport throughout Germany, making commuting both affordable and convenient.
Finding affordable housing in Munich
The housing crisis is perhaps the biggest obstacle for newcomers. Rent prices in Munich remain among the highest in Germany, and the competition for rooms is fierce.
The Student Union Munich Upper Bavaria (Studierendenwerk) manages several residence halls, where rooms typically cost around €360 per month. Students can also apply for short-term accommodation or seek privately managed dorms.
Those searching on the open market should prepare for high prices and potential scams.
Legitimate offers can be found on portals such as:
- wohnungsboerse.muenchen.de
- wg-gesucht.de
- friendsquarters.de
- sueddeutsche.de
- abendzeitung-muenchen.de
⚠️ Important tip: Never transfer deposits or rent payments before signing a verified rental contract. Scammers often post fake listings on Facebook or housing portals.
For emergency situations, the Studierendenwerk also offers temporary housing options and maintains a list of regional newspapers and private housing agencies that regularly publish verified listings.
Money matters: Bafög, student loans and part-time jobs
Many students in Munich rely on a mix of parental support, part-time jobs or government aid to make ends meet.
The main form of financial assistance is BAföG, the Federal Education and Training Assistance Act, which combines a grant and an interest-free loan. Eligibility depends on the applicant’s income and family situation.
Students who do not qualify for BAföG can apply for a KfW student loan, offering up to €650 per month, independent of income. However, the effective annual interest rate currently stands at 6.04%.
For those who prefer to work, both LMU and TUM host online job boards listing opportunities for student assistants, tutors and research aides.
Under German law, international students can work 20 hours per week during term and up to 40 hours during holidays.
Classic part-time jobs — from tutoring to hospitality — also remain popular among Munich’s student community.
Enjoying student life: parks, sports, and free culture
Despite its reputation as Germany’s most expensive city, Munich offers countless free or low-cost experiences.
The Englischer Garten and the Isar riverbanks are perfect for relaxing, jogging, or picnicking with friends. During summer, people gather to sunbathe, play volleyball or even surf the famous Eisbach wave.
Sports enthusiasts can join Zentraler Hochschulsport München (ZHS) — the central university sports network — for just €12 per semester, gaining access to hundreds of courses, from climbing and swimming to martial arts and skiing.
Those preferring to stay outdoors can also enjoy the Hermann-von-Siemens-Sportpark, which offers basketball, beach volleyball, and fitness areas completely free of charge.
Culture for one euro — or even free
Students under 30 can experience Munich’s cultural scene at reduced rates:
- Bavarian State Opera and Munich Kammerspiele offer €10 tickets, available on the first Monday of each month.
- Munich Philharmonic Orchestra tickets start at just €11 for those under 29 — including public transport.
- Movie discounts apply every Monday or Tuesday in most cinemas, with tickets around €7–8.50.
Many museums open their doors for €1 every Sunday, including:
- All Pinakothek museums
- Museum Brandhorst
- Museum Fünf Kontinente
- Egyptian Museum
- Glyptothek
- Bavarian National Museum
Free entry is available at:
- Rathausgalerie
- NS Documentation Center
- ESO Supernova Exhibition
- Museum of Casts of Classical Statues
The city also hosts numerous free festivals, such as Theatron, Isarinselfest, and Free & Easy at the Backstage venue.
Eating well on a student budget
Munich’s food scene may be famous for luxury dining, but students can still enjoy traditional Bavarian meals affordably.
At beer gardens, bringing your own food is allowed in the self-service area — only drinks must be purchased.
A classic Weißwurst breakfast can cost as little as €5, and some venues even offer it for €1 during Carnival Monday.
University canteens run by the Studierendenwerk serve balanced meals at student prices.
For a change of scenery, smaller international restaurants and student cafés across Maxvorstadt, Schwabing, and Giesing offer plenty of affordable options.
Making friends and building community
Beyond lectures and exams, university life in Munich is also about meeting people and creating connections.
Orientation weeks and departmental events are great starting points. Students can also join student councils, choirs, orchestras, or university magazines.
Online platforms such as Bumble for Friends, Facebook groups, and the Munich Social Club on Reddit make it easier for newcomers to find like-minded people.
Especially during the first few weeks of the semester, many students are in the same situation — so being open, proactive, and curious goes a long way.
