In Germany, the number of university dormitory places falls short by more than 200 000, according to calculations from the German Economic Institute (IW) released on Monday. The Institute projects that the population of young people aged 18 to 25 will rise from 8.5 million to nine million by 2040, even as the overall population ages. Today’s 241 000 existing dormitory spots cover only about half of the calculated demand.
To estimate the required capacity, the IW used population forecasts from the Federal Statistical Office, multiplying that figure by a projected occupancy rate. The calculation assumes a modest improvement of the rate to 15 percent.
“The gap in supply can only be closed by creating more dormitory places. The investment required is enormous, and cannot be met without state support” said IW economist Philipp Deschermeier. Around €2.8 billion would be needed solely for renovations. According to the Institute, many German dormitories are in need of modernization, particularly in North Rhine‑Westphalia, where a quarter of all students’ housing is affected.