Apply for WBS for Students: Tenant Help Germany

Many students in Germany look for affordable housing and wonder if they can apply for a Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS). As a tenant it is important to know which income limits, proofs and deadlines apply, how the application process works and which authorities are responsible. This guide explains clearly which documents students need, where to find forms and how to speed up the process. It is aimed at tenants in Germany seeking socially subsidised housing and gives concrete steps, official laws and practical tips to prepare the application. The explanation avoids legal jargon and shows when to contact the office, local housing authorities or the local court. This helps tenants keep track of their rights and increase the chances of a quick decision.

What is a WBS?

The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) is a certificate that entitles eligible persons to rent subsidised or socially bound housing. The legal basis is the Housing Promotion Act (Wohnraumförderungsgesetz, WoFG).^[2] The WBS itself is not a lease but a proof of entitlement towards landlords.

Who is eligible?

• Students with low incomes who do not exceed the income limits applicable in their region.
• Household size and special life situations (e.g. single parents) affect eligibility.
• Some municipal regulations include additional criteria; check with the responsible housing office.

What documents do you need?

• Identity card or residence documents as proof of identity.
• Certificate of enrolment from the university and current student status certificate.
• Income statements for all household members (pay slips, BAföG notice).
• Lease agreement or property description if already available.

How does the procedure work?

The application is submitted to the municipality or the responsible housing office of your city. Many cities offer online forms or downloadable application forms; an example for a municipal WBS information page is the Berlin service portal. Serviceportal Berlin. After review you will receive a decision; in case of rejection there are objection and legal appeal routes. For tenancy-related questions, the provisions of the BGB (e.g. obligations of landlords and tenants' rights) apply additionally.^[1]

FAQ

Who can apply for a WBS?

Students with correspondingly low income and appropriate household size can apply for a WBS; exact limits differ regionally.

How long does it take to decide on the application?

Processing time varies by municipality; typically expect a few weeks, in urgent cases ask for an accelerated procedure.

Do I have to renew the WBS every year?

That depends on the specific decision; many certificates have a validity period, after which a new application is required if circumstances have changed.

How-To

1. Find out at the responsible housing office about regional requirements.
2. Gather all required documents: ID, enrolment certificate, income proofs.
3. Complete the application form online or on paper and attach copies of the proofs.
4. Submit the application and note the date and contact; request an acknowledgement of receipt.
5. If delayed, inquire in writing about the processing status or file an objection if necessary.

Help and Support / Resources

• Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) - gesetze-im-internet.de
• Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) §§535–580a - gesetze-im-internet.de
• Local courts — Justizportal of the Federal and State Governments

1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB) — gesetze-im-internet.de
2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) — gesetze-im-internet.de
3. [3] Amtsgerichte — Justizportal des Bundes und der Länder