^ abSince the winners of the 2016–17 DFB-Pokal, Borussia Dortmund, qualified for the Champions League based on league position, the Europa League group stage spot was passed to the sixth-placed team, Hertha BSC; and the Europa League third qualifying round spot was passed to the seventh-placed team, SC Freiburg.
^On 10 March 2017, VfR Aalen was deducted nine points for filing in for insolvency.[5] On 15 March 2017, Aalen objected the decision.[6] The DFB rejected the appeal on 24 March 2017.[7] After Aalen again appealed the decision, it was rejected once more on 11 April 2017.[8] On 4 May 2017, the DFB rejected the next appeal from Aalen.[9] It was again denied on 18 May 2017.[10]
^SC Paderborn were originally relegated from the 2016–17 3. Liga after finishing 18th. However, 1860 Munich, who were relegated from the 2016–17 2. Bundesliga, were unable to obtain a license for the 2017–18 3. Liga. Therefore, SC Paderborn, who submitted a 3. Liga license application, remained in the league for the 2017–18 season.[11][12]
^On 24 April 2017, FSV Frankfurt was deducted nine points for filing in for insolvency.[13] Frankfurt appealed on 27 April 2017.[14] On 4 May 2017, the appeal was rejected from the DFB.[15] Another appeal was turned down on 10 May 2017.[16] Frankfurt accepted the penalty on 17 May 2017.[17]