Studying and learning
Arriving and Getting Started
The first step is often the hardest. To make things a bit easier, we’ve put together all the information you need to get your studies off to a good start.
We’ll explain what studying at the University of Vienna involves, how to find your way around, and who’s there to help if you have any questions.
Studying – what does that mean?
Starting your degree programme brings with it many new freedoms – you can shape your studies actively and according to your own preferences:
- You organise your semester yourself.
- You keep track of your studies.
- You are responsible for your own study progress.
Don’t worry: you’ll settle into life as a student step by step.
Getting to know the university
Student ID number, student record sheet, curriculum – there are lots of new terms you will come across at the start of your studies. To help you find your way around, we explain them in our ABC of terminology.
Orientation courses will help you settle in during your first semester. Studienstart Plus rounds off the range of services we offer.
Looking for support and a chance to chat? The introductory and orientation period (STEOP) mentoring programme will help you build your first network at university.
I want...
The Admission Office is your point of contact for application, the entrance exam/aptitude test procedure, and tuition fee/Students' Union fee.
If you have any questions, you can contact the Admission Office via the contact form or by telephone.
You would like to apply for admission to a degree programme but are having problems with your application on u:space? Please contact the Technical Support of the Admission Office.
The StudiesServiceCentres (SSC) and StudiesServiceUnits (SSS) are your first point of contact for any questions you may have about your studies – from registering for courses and examinations right through to completing your degree programme.
If you have any questions about IT services such as the u:account, software, Wi-Fi or computer rooms, the ZID Helpdesk is here to help.
Peer Point is an advice centre run by students for students. You can drop in at any time to ask questions, simply and on an equal footing, about academic reading, writing and research, as well as about studying and organising your studies.
The students' representatives (STV) for your degree programme can help with any questions you may have about your study plan and examinations, and will mediate in the event of conflicts.
The Students Union of the University of Vienna (ÖH Uni Wien) is the statutory body representing students’ interests and offers them advice on various aspects of their studies.
The Vienna University Library (UB) and the 33 specialised libraries are here to help with any queries you may have about library services and research. Simply contact the UB Helpdesk!
A stay abroad is a great opportunity to get to know new countries, cultures, languages and people. The International Office is happy to advise you on student mobility programmes such as Erasmus+ or Circle.U.
What makes for a respectful and safe learning environment at the University of Vienna? On our page on studying and learning together, you’ll find all the key information about our values and guidelines – from studying safely and our Code of Conduct to your rights and responsibilities as a student.
Learning and Studying
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My semester checklist
This is on my to-do list at the start of every semester:
🗹 pay my tuition/Students' Union fee
🗹 validate my student ID card, the u:card
🗹 plan my semester
🗹 keep an eye on the minimum number of credits
🗹 register for courses and exams
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Planning my semester
There is no fixed timetable at the University of Vienna. You plan your own semester. The following resources are available to help you:
- the semester planner and the record of examinations in u:space
- the curriculum for your degree programme
You can find all the information you need about semester planning and registering for courses and examinations at the StudiesServiceCenter (SSC) or the StudiesServiceUnit (SSS) of your degree programme.
Accessible studying at the University of Vienna
The University of Vienna supports you in accessible studying – from advice to adjustments of exams or courses.
The Team Barrierefrei has created a list of all the services available and will be happy to help you with your enquiry.
Living and Connecting
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Communities
Is music or sport your passion? Join our communities – there’s something for everyone!
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Health during your studies
A healthy balance is also key to studying successfully. We’re here to support you with a wide range of services centred on health!
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Learning languages
Would you like to learn a language? Take advantage of what the Language Center has to offer and broaden your horizons!
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Living and working
How do I find a flat in Vienna, can I work whilst studying, and how do I organise my daily life in my new surroundings?
Working at the department
As a tutor, teaching assistant or e-multiplier, you will be directly involved in teaching, research or administration and will support the departments in their day-to-day work.
You will receive comprehensive training from the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) for your role as a student assistant.
Please note: These positions are advertised directly by the relevant directorate of studies (SPL) or the relevant StudiesServiceCenter (SSC) in your faculty – it is best to keep an eye on their websites or speak to lecturers or the SPL directly.
Sharing knowledge
As a STEOP mentor, you help first-year students get off to a good start in their studies. You share your personal tips on everyday university life and guide new students through the introductory and orientation period.
As a writing mentor , you’ll support and guide students in planning their first academic papers in a structured way and writing them successfully.
You’ll receive training for your role as a mentor at the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL). You’ll also receive ECTS credits and a certificate to add to your CV. Afterwards, you can apply to become a writing or learning assistant at the CTL.
Supporting international students
For anyone looking to build an international network, volunteering as an Erasmus Buddy is a great option. In this role, you’ll help exchange students find their feet at university and in their new city, whilst making friends from all over the world.
Representing students
As a students' representatives (STV), you’ll be working at the grassroots level to support your own degree programme. As the first point of contact for your fellow students’ questions and concerns, you’ll help resolve issues and play an active role in shaping the curriculum.
Elections are held every two years.
