WBS Extension: Students & Tenants in Germany

Social Housing & Housing Entitlement Certificate 3 min read · published September 07, 2025

Many students and tenants in big cities struggle with renewing the Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) on time. This guide explains in plain language which documents are needed, which deadlines apply and which common mistakes can delay or prevent renewal. I provide practical steps for submitting the application, name official forms and authorities, and explain how to respond if an application is rejected or questions arise. The advice is specifically aimed at Germany and helps you keep legal deadlines in view and document evidence properly to secure your claim to social housing. I also describe a sample cover letter for renewal, give deadline examples and explain when legal advice is sensible. At the end you will find an FAQ, a step-by-step guide and official links to forms and authorities.

WBS in Germany: Who is covered?

The Wohnberechtigungsschein (WBS) grants access to subsidised housing. Eligibility and deadlines are derived from the Housing Promotion Act (WoFG) and the tenancy rules in the German Civil Code (BGB).[2][1] Check your eligibility early and contact the responsible authority if your study status, income or household changes.

In many cities the WBS is time-limited and must be actively renewed.

Common mistakes when renewing the WBS

  • Missing deadlines (within), submitting the application too late.
  • Incomplete documents (form), missing landlord certificate or income proofs.
  • Missing evidence (evidence), poor or unclear copies of documents.
  • Wrong submission method (by), e.g. no verifiable dispatch at deadline.
  • No registration with the office (record) after moving or address change.
Always submit documents on time and in a verifiable way to avoid refusals.

Forms and templates

For renewal you usually need the WBS application from your municipality, a landlord certificate and proofs of study and income. The legal bases are in the WoFG and the BGB.[2][1] Example: For Berlin use the official form from the City of Berlin. WBS form Berlin[3]

  • The municipality's WBS application (form): fill in, sign, attach landlord certificate.
  • Landlord certificate (document): with signature and rent amount.
  • Proof of study or training (evidence): current enrolment certificate.
  • Deadline information (within): submit the application according to municipal rules.
A short cover sheet with a checklist makes it easier for the authority to review your application.

What to do if rejected or delayed?

If the authority rejects or requests more information, reply quickly and fully. For judicial clarification the local court (Amtsgericht) is competent.[4] Request a written justification and check deadlines for appeal or reapplication. Authorities must follow procedural rules; for formal mistakes a short deadline to submit missing documents may be possible. If you need legally binding advice, contact the responsible legal office or consumer advice service.

Document every submission with a receipt or by registered mail.

FAQ

Can I renew the WBS as a student?
Yes, students can renew the WBS if the eligibility conditions continue to be met; provide current enrolment and income proofs.
How long before must I apply for renewal?
That depends on the municipality; submit the application according to local rules and check deadlines on the form.
What if the landlord refuses the landlord certificate?
Request the certificate in writing and document the request; if refused, seek legal advice or report the issue to the authority.

Guide: WBS renewal step by step

  1. Check your eligibility and deadlines (within), read your municipality's requirements.
  2. Gather proofs (evidence): landlord certificate, income proofs, enrolment certificate.
  3. Complete the WBS form (form), sign it and attach copies.
  4. Send the application on time (by) and keep dispatch or receipt confirmations.
  5. For queries: contact the responsible authority (contact) and submit missing documents.
  6. If rejected, check appeal deadlines and consider legal advice.

Key notes

  • Check deadlines immediately after receiving a notice.
  • Keep proofs complete and legible.
  • Use official municipal forms and templates.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Bürgerliches Gesetzbuch (BGB), §535 ff. - gesetze-im-internet.de
  2. [2] Wohnraumförderungsgesetz (WoFG) - gesetze-im-internet.de
  3. [3] Formular WBS - service.berlin.de
  4. [4] Informationen zu Amtsgerichten - justiz.de

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Germany

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.

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