HUMBOLDT UNIVERSITY OF BERLIN

Humboldt University of Berlin (Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin) is one of Germany’s most prestigious and historic public research universities, located in the heart of Berlin. Founded in 1810 by Wilhelm von Humboldt, it pioneered the modern research university model, integrating teaching and research—a concept that has influenced higher education worldwide.

On-Campus Infrastructure at Humboldt University

1. Jacob-und-Wilhelm-Grimm-Zentrum (Main Library)

• Working Hours:
  • Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
  • Closed on Sundays
• Cost: Free for HU students. Non-students may need to pay a fee or obtain a temporary pass.
• Distance from Main Campus: Located just a 5-minute walk from the main building.
• How to Get There: Walking from the main Humboldt University campus (Unter den Linden 6).

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 Transportation

1. S-Bahn and U-Bahn Stations (Friedrichstraße Station)

• Working Hours:
  • Trains operate from 4:30 AM to 1:00 AM (next day) for S-Bahn and U-Bahn.
• Cost:
  • A single ticket (AB zone) costs about €3.80 (one-way).
  • Monthly passes (AB zone) start from €86.
• Distance from Humboldt University:
  • Friedrichstraße Station is about a 5-minute walk from the university.
• How to Get There:
  • From the main campus, walk 3-5 minutes to the station.
  • U-Bahn U6 at Französische Straße (directly close to campus).

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  Facilities & Services

• Working Hours:
  • Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.
• Cost:
  • Rent: Approximately €300 – €450 per month (depending on location and room type).
• Distance:
  • Studierendenwerk has several dorms spread across Berlin, with many within a 20-minute commute from HU.
• How to Get There:
  • Offices are accessible via S-Bahn or U-Bahn from Humboldt University.

2. Healthcare (HU Health Service)

• Working Hours:
  • Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
• Cost:
  • Usually free for HU students, but check the specific details for international students.
• Distance:
  • HU’s Health Service is on-campus or nearby (within walking distance).
• How to Get There:
  • Walk from the main Humboldt University building.

3. Charité University Hospital

• Working Hours:
  • 24 hours (Emergency) / Regular outpatient clinics: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Cost:
  • Emergency visits: around €10-€50 (depending on the treatment and insurance status).
  • Non-emergency consultations may vary; check with your health insurance provider for exact coverage.
• Distance from HU:
  • Charité is about 15-20 minutes away by public transport.
• How to Get There:
  • Take the S-Bahn from Friedrichstraße to Charité station (about 10-15 minutes).

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 Student Support

1. International Office at HU

• Working Hours:
  • Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
• Cost:
  • Services are usually free for students.
• Distance:
  • Located in the same building as the main administrative offices, within walking distance from the university.
• How to Get There:
  • Walk directly from the main Humboldt campus to the International Office.

2. Career Service

• Working Hours:
  • Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Cost:
  • Free for students of HU Berlin.
• Distance:
  • Located on campus or close by (a few minutes’ walk).
• How to Get There:
  • Walking from the main university building.

3. Language Center (Sprachenzentrum)

• Working Hours:
  • Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Cost:
  • Course fees range from €100 to €250 depending on the type and duration of the course.
• Distance:
  • Located a 10-minute walk from the main campus.
• How to Get There:
  • Walk from the main campus to Sprachenzentrum (or check HU campus maps).

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 Cultural & Recreational Infrastructure

1. Museum Island (Museumsinsel)

• Working Hours:
  • Most museums: Daily from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (extended hours on Thursdays).
• Cost:
  • Museum Pass: €29 (3 days, includes 5 museums).
  • Single tickets: ~€10-€15 per museum.
• Distance from HU:
  • About a 10-minute walk to Museum Island.
• How to Get There:
  • Walk across the Spree River from Unter den Linden.

2. Parks (Lustgarten, Monbijoupark)

• Working Hours:
  • Open 24 hours for general access.
  • Park cafes usually open 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Cost:
  • Free entry.
• Distance from HU:
  • Lustgarten is immediately next to the Humboldt campus, about a 5-minute walk.
• How to Get There:
  • Walk directly to Lustgarten from the university’s main entrance.

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Cafés and Restaurants

1. Cafés around Humboldt University

• Working Hours:
  • Typically 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM.
• Cost:
  • Average prices: Coffee €2 – €4, Sandwiches €3 – €6.
• Distance:
  • Many cafés are within a 5-minute walk from HU.
• How to Get There:
  • Walk around the Unter den Linden area to find various local cafés.

6 CHURCHES NEAR HUMBOLDT UNIVERSITY OF BERLIN

1. St. Hedwig’s Cathedral https://www.hedwigs-kathedrale.de/

• Denomination: Roman Catholic
• Distance from HU Berlin: ~3-minute walk (250 meters)
• Service Times:
  • Monday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  • Sunday: 1:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Address: Hinter der Katholischen Kirche 3, 10117
• Service Language: Primarily German, with occasional English translations.
• How to get there: From Humboldt University, walk east along Unter den Linden, then turn right onto Bebelplatz.

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 2. Berlin Cathedral (Berliner Dom) https://www.berlinerdom.de/

• Denomination: Protestant (Evangelical)
• Distance from HU Berlin: ~5-minute walk (450 meters)
• Service Times:
  • Monday to Saturday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
  • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM (also has evening services on Sundays)
  • Vespers: 6:00 PM (Monday to Saturday)
• Address: Am Lustgarten, 10178 Berlin
• Service Language: Primarily German but with international services available.
• How to get there: Head east from HU Berlin towards Museum Island. The Cathedral is directly ahead, past the river.

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 3. Miracle Centre Church Berlin https://mccberlin.org/de/

• Denomination: Pentecostal/Charismatic
• Distance from HU Berlin: ~3.2 km (~15 minutes by tram)
• Service Times:
  • Sunday Service: 11:00 AM
  • School of the Holy Spirit: Friday at 7:00 PM
  • Revival Night: Once a month at 7:00 PM
• Address: GLS Campus, Kastanienallee 82, 10435 Berlin
• Service Language: English and German
• How to get there:

• Take Tram M1 or M12 from Friedrichstraße to Schwedter Straße.
• Walk for 3 minutes to the church.

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4. Community Church Berlin https://berlin.church/

• Denomination: Non-denominational
• Distance from HU Berlin: ~3.2 km (same location as Miracle Centre)
• Service Times:
  • Worship Gatherings: 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month at 11:00 AM
  • Small Groups: 2nd and 4th Sundays at 11:00 AM
• Address: GLS Campus, Kastanienallee 82, 10435 Berlin
• Service Language: English
• How to get there: Same directions as Miracle Centre Church.

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 5. American Church in Berlin (ACB) https://americanchurchberlin.de/

• Denomination: Ecumenical with Lutheran roots
• Distance from HU Berlin: ~6.5 km (~20–25 minutes by U-Bahn)
• Service Times:
  • Sunday Service: 11:00 AM
  • Bible Study: Wednesday at 7:00 PM
• Address: Luther Church, Dennewitzplatz 1, 10783 Berlin
• Service Language: English
• How to get there:

• Take the U2 subway line from Hausvogteiplatz (near HU) to Bülowstraße.
• Walk for 3 minutes to Dennewitzplatz.

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 6. Berliner Stadtmission (Berlin City Mission) http://www.berliner-stadtmission.de/

• Denomination: Protestant (Evangelical)
• Distance from HU Berlin: ~2 km (10-12 minutes by tram)
• Service Times:
  • Sunday Services: 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM
  • Children’s Service: Sundays at 10:00 AM
• Address: Alt-Berliner Str. 9, 10119 Berlin
• Service Language: Primarily German, with some international events
• How to get there:

• Take the Tram M8 from Friedrichstraße to Münzstraße.
• Walk for 5 minutes to the church.

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 Tips for Kenyan Students:

• Language: Many churches offer services in English, and Pentecostal or international churches are often more flexible with languages.
• Engagement: Many of these churches have international student groups, so you can connect with others and make new friends.
• Community: Consider joining church groups or Bible studies, as they are a great way to bond with others and grow in faith.

ACCOMODITION FOR STUDENTS IN AND AROUND HUMBOLDT UNIVERSITY OF BERLIN

For a Kenyan student planning to study at Humboldt University of Berlin, here is a detailed guide to the accommodation options, their costs, features, and everything you need to know to help you make an informed decision:

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1. Student Dormitories (Managed by StudierendenWERK Berlin)https://www.habyt.com/room/germany/berlin

Cost:

€250–€400/month (including utilities)

Features:

• Furnished Rooms: Basic furnishings such as a bed, desk, chair, and wardrobe.
• Shared Kitchens: Most dorms have communal kitchens for cooking.
• Communal Spaces: Common areas like lounges, study rooms, and sometimes a laundry room.
• Location: Located throughout Berlin, often with good transport links to Humboldt University.
• Wi-Fi: Available in some dorms, but not guaranteed in all. Check with the specific dorm.
• Student Support: Managed by StudierendenWERK, which also provides social events, counseling, and other student services.

Application Process:

• Highly Competitive: Apply at least 6 months before your arrival. You will need your admission letter and proof of financial resources.
• How to Apply: Use the StudierendenWERK website (StudierendenWERK Berlin) for details and application forms.

Important Information for Kenyan Students:

• Language: Some dorms may require communication in German, but many student dorms offer support in English.
• Cultural Adaptation: Dormitories offer a great environment to meet other international students, making the transition to life in Berlin easier.

2. Shared Flats (Wohngemeinschaften – WGs)

Cost:

• €400–€700/month (excluding utilities)

Features:

• Private Room: You get your own bedroom, while sharing the kitchen, bathroom, and sometimes a living room with other flatmates.
• Utilities: Utilities (electricity, heating, water, etc.) are usually shared between all flatmates and may add an extra €50–€100/month to the rent.
• Location: WGs are available in various districts across Berlin, including close to Humboldt University (such as Mitte, Prenzlauer Berg, Friedrichshain).
• Wi-Fi: Usually included in the rent, but double-check with the landlord.
• Flexible Lease: Some WGs offer short-term leases, which may be helpful for international students.

2. Application Process:

• Online Platforms: Websites like WG-Gesucht (www.wg-gesucht.de) are popular for finding shared flats in Berlin.
• Interviews: Typically, you will have to meet with the current tenants or landlord for a “flat viewing” or video interview.

Important Information for Kenyan Students:

• Multicultural Environment: Sharing a flat with others, especially Germans or fellow international students, can provide a unique opportunity to integrate into German culture.
• Cultural Awareness: Understanding the norms around shared living, such as cleanliness and noise, is important.

3. Private Apartments

Cost:

• €600–€1,200/month (d
• Entire Apartment: You’ll have your own space, including a private kitchen and bathroom.
• Utilities: Utilities are often not included and can cost an additional €100–€200/month, depending on the apartment’s size.
• Furnishing: Many apartments are unfurnished, but you can find furnished apartments, especially for short-term rentals.
• Location: You can find apartments in the city center or surrounding areas. The further you go from Humboldt University, the cheaper the rent may be.
• Long-term Lease: Private apartments are usually rented on a 12-month lease or longer

Average utilitiescost in WG per Month :

• Heating and Hot water – 30 – 60 Euros
• Electricity (Strom) – 20 – 40 Euros
• Internet and TV – 5 – 15 Euros
• Water – 10- 25 Euros
• Waste disposal – 5 -10 Euros

Application Process:

• Property Listings: Use platforms like ImmobilienScout24 (www.immobilienscout24.de) to find available private apartments.
• Documents Needed: A rental reference, proof of income or financial support, and sometimes a SCHUFA (credit score) might be required.

Important Information for Kenyan Students:

• Higher Cost: Private apartments are generally more expensive and require a higher budget.
• Legalities: Understanding the rental contract is essential; make sure you know your rights and responsibilities, especially regarding deposits and lease terms.

4. Co-Living Spaces

Cost:

• €600–€1,000/month (including utilities)

Features:

• Furnished Rooms: Co-living spaces offer fully furnished rooms with shared living areas like kitchens, lounges, and sometimes coworking spaces.
• All-Inclusive Rent: The rent usually includes utilities, internet, and sometimes even cleaning services.
• Community Events: Co-living spaces often organize social events and gatherings, which can be a great way to meet people and integrate into the community.
• Flexible Lease: Some co-living spaces offer more flexible lease terms, making them ideal for international students.

Examples:

• THE FIZZ: Offers modern, student-friendly living with social events and amenities like a gym and study rooms.
• KUMMUNI: Another popular co-living option offering a balance between privacy and community living.

Important Information for Kenyan Students:

• Social Atmosphere: Co-living spaces can be perfect for students looking for a social living environment.
• Community Integration: These spaces cater to international students, and English is commonly spoken.

5. Temporary Accommodation/Hostels (Before You Find Long-term Housing)

Cost:

• €20–€40/night (for a hostel or temporary room)

Features:

• Short-Term Stay: These are great options for the first few days or weeks before you secure a permanent place.
• Shared Facilities: Most hostels offer shared bathrooms, kitchens, and social spaces.
• Location: Hostels are usually located in central Berlin or near major transport hubs.

Important Information for Kenyan Students:

• Affordable Start: This is a budget-friendly option for the first part of your stay in Berlin.
• Temporary Stay: Make sure to secure your long-term accommodation early.

General Tips for Kenyan Students in Berlin:

• Cultural Adjustment: Germany can be quite different culturally. Be prepared for things like punctuality, recycling, and the importance of quiet times in residential areas.
• Language: While many Germans speak English, knowing some basic German phrases can be helpful, especially for dealing with landlords or signing contracts.
• Deposit: Most landlords will ask for a deposit of 1–3 months’ rent, which you will get back if the apartment is in good condition at the end of the lease.
• Insurance: Consider getting renters’ insurance (Haftpflichtversicherung) to cover any damages you might be responsible for during your stay.
• Public Transport: Berlin has an excellent public transport system (U-Bahn, S-Bahn, buses), making it easy to commute to university from most accommodations.

RATHAUS NEAR THE UNIVERSITY

Humboldt University of Berlin (HU Berlin) is centrally located in the Mitte district, offering excellent access to various transportation infrastructures. Here’s an overview of key transport hubs and their proximity to the university:

1. Airports

Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) ber.berlin-airport.de

• Distance: Approximately 30 km (road distance: 25.7 km) from HU Berlin.
  • Travel Time:
    • Train: Direct trains from Flughafen BER to Berlin Friedrichstraße station take about 30 minutes.
    • Taxi: Approximately 27 minutes, costing €55–€70.

 2. Railway Stations

Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Main Station)

• Distance: Approximately 2.5 km from HU Berlin.
• Travel Time: Around 10 minutes via S-Bahn lines S3, S5, S7, or S75.
• Features: Germany’s largest train station, offering national and international connections.Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin

Friedrichstraße Station

• Distance: Approximately 500 meters from HU Berlin.
• Travel Time: About 5 minutes on foot.
• Features: Serves S-Bahn, U-Bahn, regional trains, and trams, providing excellent connectivity.Rome2Rio+2Rome2Rio+2Moovit+2

3. Bus and Tram Stops

• Staatsoper Bus Stop
  • Distance: Approximately 400 meters from HU Berlin.
  • Bus Lines: 100, 147, 300, N5, N6, 245. Moovit

• Am Kupfergraben Tram Stop
• Universitätsstraße Tram StopTram Lines: 12, M5.Moovit

Humboldt University, located in the heart of Berlin, is one of Germany’s most prestigious institutions, renowned for its academic excellence and rich historical legacy. Offering a wide range of programs, it fosters an environment of research, innovation, and critical thinking. If you’re looking for educational opportunities with a focus on academic rigor and global engagement, consider exploring Sanifu College https://sanifucollege.comfor more information on how it complements Humboldt’s approach to higher learning.

PLACES YOU CAN FIND OTHER KENYANS AS A STUDENT IN BERLIN

1. African Cultural & Community Centers

Close to Humboldt University (Berlin-Mitte area):

• Afrika-Haus Berlin
  -Bochumer Straße 25, 10555 Berlin
  – Hosts discussions, music, and cultural events involving the Kenyan and broader African diaspora.
  🌐 afrika-haus-berlin.de
• Haus der Kulturen der Welt (HKW)
• -John-Foster-Dulles-Allee 10, 10557 Berlin
• Hosts international African events, film screenings, and panels where Kenyan artists and

2. Kenyan Student & Youth Meetups

• Humboldt University African Students Association
  – Ask at the university’s international student office or check bulletin boards – many Kenyan students gather through these student clubs.
• Events by the Kenyan Embassy in Berlin (sometimes hosted near universities)
  🌐 kenyaembassyberlin.de

3. Churches with African/Kenyan Congregations

Many Kenyans in Berlin attend vibrant African diaspora churches. Try:

• International Christian Fellowship Berlin (ICF)
  -Kleiststraße 18-20, 10787 Berlin
   Often attended by Kenyans and other East Africans.
• Victory Christian Fellowship International (VCFI Berlin)
  -Leibnizstraße 66, 10625 Berlin
  Kenyan community members often worship here.

 4. Shops & Restaurants with East African Goods

• AfroShop Berlin
  -Wedding or Neukölln areas
  Sell Kenyan food items like unga, chapati flour, ndengu, etc. You’ll often find Kenyans shopping or chatting there.
• Swahili Street Food / African Kitchen
  – While there’s no 100% Kenyan restaurant yet, some East African food spots feature Kenyan dishes occasionally — explore the food markets in Neukölln, Wedding, or Kreuzberg.

 5. Events & Festivals

• Kenako Afrika Festival (Usually in July, Alexanderplatz)
   Expect Kenyan music, stalls, clothing, and community meetups.
• Diaspora Day Berlin / Kenyan Independence Day events
   Hosted annually — check with the Kenyan Embassy or Facebook diaspora groups.

 6. Where to Connect Online First

• Facebook Groups:
• WhatsApp Groups:
  Ask around at Kenyan events or use Facebook groups to get added.

RESTAURANTS THAT SERVE KENYAN FOOD

Here are three East African restaurants in Berlin that Kenyan students at Humboldt University might find appealing.

Tembo African Restaurant and Bar

• Address: Danckelmannstraße 20, 14059 Berlin (Charlottenburg)
• Opening Hours:
  • Friday–Saturday: 12:00 PM – 2:00 AM
  • Other days: Hours may vary; it’s advisable to call ahead.
• Contact: +49 30 2358 5046
• Distance from Humboldt University: Approximately 7 km (about 30 minutes by public transport)
• How to Get There:Take the U8 U-Bahn line from Alexanderplatz to Blaschkoallee.
• The restaurant is a short walk from the station.Facebook+1Facebook+1Restaurant Guru

Afro-Base Interl. Kitchen Berlin

• Address: Greifswalder Straße 26, 10405 Berlin (Prenzlauer Berg)
• Opening Hours:
  • Monday–Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM
  • Friday–Saturday: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Sunday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Contact: +49 30 5480 5418
• Distance from Humboldt University: Approximately 3 km (about 15 minutes by public transport)
• How to Get There:From Alexanderplatz, take the M4 tram to Am Friedrichshain.
• The restaurant is a short walk from the tram stop.Yelp+3Menuweb – Restaurant & Menus+3HappyCow+3Joint Chiefs of Staff

Tips for Visiting:

• Payment: Some establishments may accept only cash; it’s advisable to carry some euros with you.
• Reservations: For Tembo, especially during weekends or events, consider calling ahead to reserve a table.
• Menu Offerings: While these restaurants offer East African dishes, menus may vary; checking their websites or social media pages for the latest offerings is recommended.Menuweb – Restaurant & Menus+2Menuweb – Restaurant & Menus+2Facebook+2