International
Student Guide

🩺 Medical On-Call (non-life-threatening)
Phone: 116 117
For medical issues outside regular doctor hours.
Mon, Tue & Thu: 18:00–08:00 (next day) · Wed & Fri: 13:00–08:00 (next day) · Sat, Sun & public holidays: 08:00–08:00 (next day)

🚑 Medical Patient Transport (non-emergency)
Phone: +49 521 51-2301

🚔 Police Bielefeld (Non-Emergency)
Phone: +49 521 545-0
Address: August-Bebel-Straße 5, 33602 Bielefeld

🏥 Emergency Practice for Adults (Notfallpraxis für Erwachsene)
For all emergency treatments outside regular consultation hours that you would normally see your doctor for.
Address: Teutoburger Str. 50, 33604 Bielefeld
Mon, Tue & Thu: 19:00–22:00 · Wed & Fri: 15:00–22:00 · Sat, Sun & public holidays: 09:00–22:00

🦷 Dental Emergency Service (Zahnärztlicher Notdienst)
Information portal to find the on-call dentist in your area.

🎗️ AIDS-Hilfe Bielefeld e.V.
Address: Ehlentruper Weg 45a, Bielefeld
Phone: +49 521 133388
Nationwide counseling hotline: 0180 33 19411

Frauenhaus Bielefeld
24-hour emergency shelter for women and children fleeing domestic violence.
Phone: +49 521 177 376 (24/7 emergency hotline)

AWO Frauenhaus
Alternative women's shelter operated by Arbeiterwohlfahrt.
Phone: +49 521 5 21 36 36

Mädchenhaus Bielefeld e.V.
Counselling, refuge and support for girls and young women (aged 12+) with and without disabilities who have experienced sexualized, physical or psychological violence, or forced marriage.

National Domestic Violence Hotline (Hilfetelefon)
Phone: 08000 116 016 (24/7, free, anonymous, multilingual)

🏥 Clinic for Psychiatry and Psychotherapy (Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie Bethel)
Gilead III: +49 521 772 77109
Gilead IV: +49 521 772 77115

👨 Man-o-Mann Männerberatung
Counseling service for men in crisis situations.
Address: Teutoburger Str. 106, 33607 Bielefeld
Phone: +49 521 68676

🧑‍⚕️ Psychological Counseling Service (Psychologischer Beratungsdienst)
Also offers online counseling.
Address: Marktstr. 2–4, Bielefeld
Phone: +49 521 132415
Email: beratungsdienst@gfs-bielefeld.de

🏛️ Social Psychiatric Service (Sozialpsychiatrischer Dienst)
On-call service: +49 521 51-2581

📞 TelefonSeelsorge Bielefeld-OWL
Phone: 0800 111 0 111 · 0800 111 0 222
(24/7, free, anonymous)

🌙 Nightline e.V. Bielefeld
Student-run telephone counseling service by and for students.
Anonymous listening service for study-related problems, personal crises, and everyday concerns.
English available every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month.
Phone: +49 521 106 30 48 (Available during term time evenings)

🎓 ZSB Psychological Counselling (Psychologische Beratung)
Confidential counselling for exam anxiety, personal crises, stress, procrastination, and other psychological challenges during your studies. Also offers group workshops.
Location: B2 level, UHG B2-116, Bielefeld University

The International Office provides support for international students, doctoral candidates and international researchers with matters such as enrolment, accommodation, visas, counselling, exchange coordination, allocation of scholarships, and German summer courses. Among many other things they also advise students, who are planning to go abroad. They should be one of your first points of contact!

The International Office also runs the International Mentoring Programme, which matches international students with mentors, who will be able to help with all sorts of matters regarding you settling at Bielefeld university.

AK Asyl is an independent organization that supports refugees and other people with a migration background. They cooperate with the AStA but are not part of it.

Counseling at University (Beratungscafé): AK Asyl offers residence permit counseling at the AStA's Beratungscafé on Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in room S1-212 at Bielefeld University. This is their main point of contact for students.

Main Office Services (Friedenstraße): AK Asyl's main office is located at Friedenstraße 4, 33602 Bielefeld, where they provide comprehensive counseling services:

• Social and Residence Law Counseling
• Asylum Proceedings Counseling
• Psychosocial Counseling for Survivors of Trauma, Displacement and Torture
• Counseling for Unaccompanied Minor Refugees (UMF)
• Medical Aid for Refugees (Medizinische Flüchtlingshilfe)

The AStA (Allgemeiner Studierendenausschuss) is the elected student government at Bielefeld University and represents the interests of all students. It advocates for students in university committees, supports political participation, and works to improve study conditions.

AStA offers various services including social and legal counselling, support with BAföG and financing questions, guidance for international students, and help with administrative issues. It also manages the semester ticket framework, supports student initiatives, organizes events, and provides information on student rights and campus life.

The Career Service helps you figure out where you want to go in life professionally. While the ZSB helps you navigate what you can do within your studies (switching programmes, requirements, etc.), the Career Service focuses on the bigger picture: discovering your strengths, developing career perspectives, reviewing application materials, and connecting you with employers through workshops and events like the "Woche der Berufsorientierung" (Career Orientation Week).

Homepage Counselling Workshops & Events Job Portal

ESN Bielefeld (Erasmus Student Network) is a student-run organization that supports international students and promotes intercultural exchange. ESN organizes events, trips, meetups, and community activities to help students connect, make friends, and experience student life in Bielefeld and beyond. ESN works on a volunteer basis and is part of the international ESN network with sections across Europe.

The Language Centre (FSZ) is a central institution supporting your language and communication skills in your field of study. Learn more on the FSZ website. Contact: fsz-sekretariat@uni-bielefeld.de, Tel: +49 521 106-67962.

How to Register for Courses: Simply add FSZ courses to your personal timetable in the eKVV course catalog. For French and Spanish at intermediate levels and above, you'll need to take a C-Test placement test to be assigned to the correct course level. However, you can always start at A1.1 (beginner level) without any prior knowledge. Courses follow the CEFR framework (A1, A2, B1, B2, C1, C2), with some levels subdivided into .1 and .2. You can register for as many courses per semester as you like, but note that A1 courses are extremely popular and spaces are limited and automatically allocated. Starting from B1 level, you can usually expect to get a place. However, if you register for multiple A1 courses in Spanish or French, you might only get one or even none. Higher levels generally have sufficient capacity. If you need a course for ECTS credits or to prepare for a semester abroad, you can request priority. Ask the coordinators or instructors directly. Pro tip: Talk directly to the instructors, either before the course starts or on the first day of class. Many students don't show up to the first session or drop out after the first week, so spaces often become available. If you really want to take a specific popular language like Spanish, consider self-studying to A1/A2 level first, then applying for a higher-level course where spaces are more likely available.

Earn UNIcert® certificates to officially document your language proficiency. Connect with language partners using the Tandem Board. Ellipsis offers free English writing consultations for academic work via Zoom or email (ellipsis@uni-bielefeld.de).

For HSBI Students: If you're a student at Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences, check the separate HSBI course offering.

The Hochschulsport (University Sports) offers a wide range of sports courses, most of them free of charge. You can sign up weekly or, for some courses, at the start of the semester for the whole term.

There is also a gym on campus. If you are an international student, especially one who is only at Bielefeld University for a short period (e.g. as an exchange student), it is worth asking directly. You may be able to get a spot more quickly than regular students.

Browse all courses and register here: Sports Programme & Registration.

PunktUm is the German language centre of Bielefeld University. It offers free German language courses and counselling for international students and employees at all levels. They can also help you with texts you need to write in German, such as motivation letters, CVs, reports or other documents.

Contact:
Office: N4-113
Tel: +49 (0) 521 106 3616
Email: punktum@uni-bielefeld.de

Office hours:
Tuesday, 11:00 am–1:00 pm
Thursday, 11:00 am–1:00 pm
In person (N4-113) or online via Zoom. Initial feedback on texts (e.g. motivation letters, reports) is also possible during office hours.

Course registration is done via eKVV.

ViSiB (Association for the Support of International Students in Bielefeld) is a non-profit association dedicated to supporting international students and visiting academics at Bielefeld University and Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences (HSBI).

Emergency Financial Support: If you find yourself in financial distress, ViSiB provides emergency support for registered international students. This assistance helps bridge temporary financial gaps during your studies, ensuring you can continue your academic journey without disruption.

ViSiB-Böllhoff Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to outstanding international students at Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences (HSBI) who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and social commitment. The scholarship recognizes students who excel both academically and contribute to their community.

Graduation Scholarship: These scholarships are available for international students who are about to complete their BA/MA degree or state examination at both universities. These scholarships support students in their final academic phase. Application periods are advertised annually by the universities' International Offices.

ViSiB Award: Each year, ViSiB honors international students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and social or intercultural commitment with an annual award of €750. One award is given per university: one for Bielefeld University and one for HSBI. Candidates can be nominated by teaching staff or lecturers. The awards are presented at ViSiB's summer party during a special ceremony.

Company Tours & Networking: ViSiB organizes company tours that connect international students with regional businesses and employers in the Bielefeld area. These tours provide valuable insights into local career opportunities and help you build professional networks. You'll be informed about upcoming tours via email, and they're excellent opportunities for networking with both local companies and fellow international students.

The ZAB (Accessibility Services) is the central point of contact at Bielefeld University for students with disabilities, chronic or mental illnesses. They offer counselling, help with disadvantage compensation (e.g. extended exam time, alternative formats), accessible workspaces, assistive technologies, and peer mentoring. About 25% of students at Bielefeld University are affected.

Email: zab@uni-bielefeld.de
Phone: +49 521 106-12600

Homepage Student Portal Barrier-Free Campus

The ZSB (General Student Advisory Service) is the first point of contact for student counselling, study orientation, and psychological support at Bielefeld University. They offer open counselling hours (no appointment needed), help with choosing or changing your degree, study doubts, exam anxiety, stress, and personal crises. Located on the B2 level (room UHG B2-116).

Email: zsb@uni-bielefeld.de
Phone: +49 521 106-3017

Homepage Student Counselling Psychological Counselling

Student Service Centre (SSC)
The Infopunkt and Infopunkt International are the first points of contact for all questions about studying and the campus.

Student Advising and Counselling (ZSB)
Advice on choosing a course, organisation and financing before and during your studies.

International Office
Advice on all questions relating to international study programmes.

Student Secretariat (Studierendensekretariat)
Advice on application and study formalities.

Accessibility Services (ZAB)
Contact point for accessibility and active participation of people with disabilities or chronic illnesses.

Bielefeld School of Education (BiSEd)
Advice on general questions about the teacher training programme.

Academic Advisor (Fachberatung)
Advice from teaching staff on the courses offered and content of the respective degree programme.

Student Counselling Service (Studentische Studienberatung)
Counselling by students of the respective subject area.

Fachschaft (Departmental Student Committee)
Advice on course content, examinations, timetables and organisational issues in the subject.

BITS Consultancy
Advice on questions relating to the university's central IT services.

Campus Support
Help pages and support hotline for campus management applications (e.g. eKVV).

Library Service Centre (BDZ)
Information, training and advice on using the library, digital services, interlibrary loans and library cards.

AStA Counselling Café (Beratungscafé)
Advice on BAföG, housing benefit, and student finance.

BAföG Office
Advice on applications and responsible for processing applications and notifications.

Family Service
Contact point for family-related concerns with comprehensive and confidential counselling.

Campus in Balance
Offers and information on physical, mental and social health.

ZSB – Psychological Counselling
Counselling sessions, group offers and workshops for psychological support.

SKILLS
Free offers for overcoming study challenges and discovering talents.

Writing Centre (Schreiblabor)
Information, tips and exchange on writing projects.

Career Service
Counselling on career orientation and career planning.

GrACe – Graduate Centre
Contact point for doctoral candidates, doctoral students and postdocs with offers for interdisciplinary qualification, counselling and networking.

Learning Spaces and Recreational Facilities on Campus
Overview of available learning and recreational spaces on the university campus.

The orientation programme is designed for all international members of Bielefeld University. This includes international degree seekers (BA and MA), double degree students, Erasmus/cooperation students, international doctoral students, visiting scholars, interns, as well as refugees/internationals preparing the application.

Download current programme

At Bielefeld University, your certificate of enrolment (Semesterbescheinigung) is provided online as a PDF document. You can find it on the Application and Status Portal. If you enrolled through this portal, it should already be familiar to you. You should have received your login credentials as part of the enrolment process.

On this portal, you can also view the amount and bank details for transferring your semester fee (Semesterbeitrag). Once the semester fee for the upcoming semester has been processed, the certificate of enrolment will be available for download shortly after.

Bielefeld University is one large interconnected building. Finding your way around can be confusing at first, but the room numbering system follows a clear logic once you know it.

How room numbers work: A room number like B2-144 breaks down as follows:

• B: the section (Gebäudeteil) of the main building
• 2: the floor (Etage); floor 0 is the ground floor
• 144: the room number on that floor

Note: 01 and 02 are not the first and second floors. They are the basement levels below floor 0.

There are two relevant Wi-Fi networks on campus: eduroam and BI-free. Eduroam is intended for students and university staff. BI-free is the free public Wi-Fi provided by the City of Bielefeld.

For setting up eduroam on Windows, macOS or Linux, BITS (the university's IT service) provides a step-by-step guide. The same page also includes instructions for Android and iOS. You can find it here: BITS – WLAN Setup Guide.

The UniCard is the latest version of the student ID card at Bielefeld University. It also serves as your library card and as a means of payment on campus, e.g. at the Mensa, the Sowis-Cafeteria or Cafeteria X. All card-based services at the university are bundled through it.

To apply for your UniCard, use this link: UniCard Application. You will find instructions there (PDF and video) if needed. Otherwise, you can go directly to the photo upload and request your UniCard.

You can get your semester ticket for buses and trains through the OWL Mobil app. This also serves as your Deutschlandticket, meaning you can use public transport across all of Germany around the clock. Simply download the app, tap the "Tickets" tab, then select "Deutschlandsemesterticket". Log in with your university credentials and you are all set!

Important: The ticket is only valid together with a photo ID!

A successful degree also requires you to plan your studies independently. An overview of your entire programme can be found by selecting your degree on the eKVV study information pages. After selecting your programme, you will find a page with general information about your studies and links to more specific content, including:

• Examination and Study Regulations (Prüfungs- und Studienordnung): These outline the legal provisions for all degree programmes at Bielefeld University, covering the formal aspects of structure, progression, and exams.
• Subject-Specific Regulations (Fächerspezifische Bestimmungen, FsB): A list of the modules relevant to your programme, detailing the type and number of assessments you need to complete.
• Module Descriptions (Modulliste): A detailed description of each module, including the intended learning outcomes, specific teaching content, and the type and scope of courses offered.
• Course Catalogue (Lehrangebot im eKVV): A listing of all courses offered for your programme in the upcoming semester.

Don't worry! This mountain of information is manageable. If you ever feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out to your Fachschaft (student council), the orientation tutors, or the Zentrale Studienberatung (ZSB) for guidance.

General Information

Depending on your status (e.g. employee, scholarship holder, EU citizen/non-EU citizen), your age and your previous health insurance, you can join the public health insurance (gesetzliche Krankenversicherung) or you can join a private health insurance (private Krankenversicherung).

If you are from the EU/EEA, you generally do not need additional health insurance as long as you have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). However, your EHIC must still be verified by a German statutory insurance provider for enrolment (e.g. Techniker Krankenkasse). If you are privately insured or covered through family insurance, your case must be reviewed individually. Compare the conditions of different insurance companies before choosing.

If you are from outside the EU, you will usually need to register with a German public health insurance provider. In some cases, insurance from your home country may be accepted, but only if it is officially confirmed as equivalent by a German statutory provider (bring your insurance policy).

In any case, inform your health insurance company that you need to be registered at the university and ask for the "M10" notification for Bielefeld University (relevant for students).

Please note:

• The insurance is only valid from the official start of the semester.
• Students who participate in a pre-orientation and language program must have health insurance for the period between departure and the start of the semester, e.g. through (travel) health insurance in their home country.
• BA, MA and PhD students over the age of 30 and students who have studied for more than 14 semesters are no longer eligible for public student health insurance. Options are: voluntary public insurance or private insurance.

Public Health Insurance (Gesetzliche Krankenversicherung)

• Pays directly for any services you need to use. Necessary health treatments will be covered no matter what they cost.
• Will be accepted for enrolment, no matter which provider you choose.

Private Health Insurance (Private Krankenversicherung)

• Will only be accepted for enrolment if their policy is comparable to public health insurance.
• May not pay for necessary treatments in every case, or they may refuse payment past a certain sum.
• You have to pay for any doctor's visits first and then apply to the insurance company for reimbursement.
• Once you take out a private health insurance, you cannot revert to public health insurance (there are only some exceptions).
• Read carefully all terms and conditions.

If you injure somebody or damage somebody's property, it is your responsibility to pay compensation for the caused damage. It is therefore common practice to take out third-party liability insurance, which covers unintentional damages or accidents caused by you or a member of your family, including children, pets, and even the loss of your office key.

Although this insurance is not compulsory in Germany, it is held by a majority of the German population. It is easily affordable, typically ranging from around 6 to 10 Euros per month.

University staff and students are covered by statutory accident insurance under certain conditions. See: Accident insurance - Bielefeld University.

In addition, private accident insurance can cover the gap between health insurance and statutory accident insurance, particularly if you have an accident and face long-term health-related costs.

If you bring your car to Germany, you are required to have car insurance. It covers your vehicle in case of an accident or other damage. This insurance is mandatory if you come with a vehicle.

• Partial coverage (Teilkasko): Covers damage from external events such as theft, fire, hail, or flooding.
• Fully comprehensive coverage (Vollkasko): Also covers damage you cause yourself, including accidents where you are at fault.

• Approximately 344,000 inhabitants.
• Districts: Brackwede, Dornberg, Gadderbaum, Heepen, Jöllenbeck, Mitte, Schildesche, Senne, Sennestadt, Stieghorst.
• Good transport network: Siggi bikes, e-scooters; university easily accessible by tram and bus.
• Approx. 10 minutes from Bielefeld Central Station to the university by train.

• Base rent (Kaltmiete): approx. 5.78–10.30 € per m² based on the rent index.
• Operating/ancillary costs to landlord: Approx. 2.17 € per m² (e.g. rubbish collection, water, caretaker, garden maintenance, council tax, stairwell cleaning, sewage, heating).
• Additional costs (not payable to landlord): broadcasting licence fee, electricity, gas, internet.

Accommodation options are usually either a room in a shared flat or your own flat.

In a shared flat (WG), you have your own room and share the common areas (bathroom, kitchen, living room) with other flatmates. Shared flats are very common in Bielefeld. They are an affordable option and allow you to quickly get in touch with other people.

Rooms/flats can be unfurnished, partially furnished or furnished. In Bielefeld, rooms/flats are usually unfurnished or partially furnished. You will therefore probably need to buy furniture.

Flats are offered by private landlords, commercial providers or non-profit organisations (e.g. Studierendenwerk).

If you pay the semester fee at Bielefeld University and are registered as a student/doctoral candidate, you can apply for a place in a student dormitory. You may even do so before you arrive in Germany. As proof of matriculation, you can upload your letter of admission or letter of invitation to the website of the student dormitory.

The following student dormitories are available in Bielefeld:

• Studierendenwerk
• BGW
• Campus Westend
• Rotunda Westfalica
• Hollensiek
• Studentenwohnen

You can find current private rental offers in Bielefeld on the following commercial and external search portals:

• WG-Gesucht
• Neue Westfälische
• Westfalen Blatt
• ImmobilienScout24
• Wohnungsbörse.de
• Kleinanzeigen
• Studenten-WG.de
• WG-Liste.de

If your studies or research stay in Bielefeld is limited in time or you only want to book short-term accommodation for the first few weeks of your arrival, the following guest apartments are available for international academics on the campus of Bielefeld University:

• Boarding House Campus
• ZiF (Center for Interdisciplinary Research Guest Apartments)

Reservation requests and bookings for guest apartments in the ZiF are made via the host institution/AG and via the ZiF. The ZiF apartments are not available to employees of Bielefeld University.

Additionally, the following hotels, hostels and holiday apartments are available in Bielefeld:

• Hotels
• Jugendherberge
• Ferienwohnung
• Airbnb
• Immoscout (filter "befristet" and "zur Zwischenmiete")
• WG-Gesucht (filter "befristet" and "zur Zwischenmiete")

A housing association is a legal entity and usually owns several properties. They do not operate profit oriented. As a tenant, you become a member of the housing association, acquire shares, can voice your own ideas and help shape processes in various areas at meetings. Housing associations have waiting lists for apartments. Therefore, you should register as a person interested in renting at a housing association as soon as you arrive in Germany.

The following housing associations exist in Bielefeld:

• Freie Scholle
• BGW
• LEG
• GSWG Senne
• GBB Brackwede

• Accept the offer from the shared apartment/landlord as soon as possible.
• Arrange an appointment with the landlord and, if needed, the previous tenant to sign the tenancy agreement, receive the key, and obtain the landlord’s confirmation (Wohnungsgeberbestätigung).
• Pay the deposit and set up a monthly standing order from your account to pay the rent.
• Register electricity, gas, and internet with external suppliers (you can directly ask neighbours and/or previous tenants about possible suppliers).
• Register/change your new address at the registration office within 14 days after moving in.
• Inform all institutions about your new address (e.g., university, banks, insurance companies).
• Consider whether you need furniture or other household items and, if so, buy them.
• Ask friends and colleagues for help with the move.

In Bielefeld, in addition to traditional shops, there are also many opportunities to buy furniture and other household items second-hand and thus at a lower price:

• Recyclingbörse
• Brockensammlung Bethel
• Flea markets
• Kleinanzeigen (ehem. eBay Kleinanzeigen)

If you are buying a large piece of furniture, you can ask the seller if they can deliver it to you for a fee. If delivery isn’t available, renting a van is another option.

IKEA Bielefeld offers a wide selection of affordable furniture and household items. You can reach IKEA by taking bus line 44, which operates in a circular route. The line is accessible from the central hub at Brackwede Kirche station, which you can reach by train. When planning your journey on mobiel.de, search for the stop IKEA.

Tenancy law is very complicated. If you have any problems when or while renting an apartment, you can get legal advice. Possible examples of problems that may arise include:

• You do not receive a service charge statement (Nebenkostenabrechnung) or it is incorrect.
• Your rent increases.
• Your tenancy contract has been cancelled.
• Your deposit is not returned.
• You have mold in your apartment.

It is therefore important that you get legal advice and find out about your options:

• AStA Bielefeld (General Students’ Committee)
• Verbraucherzentrale (Consumer Advice Centre)
• Private lawyers for tenant law
• Mieterschutzbund / Mieterbund OWL (tenants' association); membership against a monthly fee gives you information and legal support.

• Private landlords and roommates in Bielefeld usually want to meet prospective tenants in person. Finding an apartment from abroad is often difficult or impossible; consider booking a hostel, hotel or holiday apartment for your first month.
• Meeting a landlord: be professional, polite, punctual and prepared (bring documents).
• WG-Casting (meeting possible future roommates): be yourself, friendly and laid-back; try not to oversell yourself, but appear reliable, responsible and tidy.
• Beware of online scams; never transfer money before you have seen or inspected the apartment.
• Consider liability insurance and/or household insurance; they cover damage to the flat and your belongings.
• Landlords care what you’re doing in Bielefeld and how you’ll finance the rent; include a brief self-introduction.
• If you have a tenancy agreement, pay rent on time; for defects, inform the landlord and allow repairs—don’t just withhold rent, or you risk termination.
• Most buildings have house rules (quiet hours, cleaning of common areas); read them early and ask your landlord or neighbours if unsure.
• Parties/barbecues may be fine depending on the neighbourhood; for larger, potentially noisy parties, notify neighbours in advance to avoid issues.

Signing up for the International Mentoring Programme will provide you with a student at Bielefeld University as a mentor, who may help you with the process of finding accommodation, picking up your keys, meeting your landlord, inspecting possible apartments, etc.

You may also always contact the International Office and the ISR for further help and information.

Most housing websites are in German; use a browser add-on to translate pages into English. For emails to landlords, consider writing in German with tools such as DeepL.

It may also be advisable to look for housing in the areas and cities around Bielefeld.

Living in student accommodation can also be an attractive option for students with children. At Wertherstraße 148, a hall of residence run by the Studierendenwerk, single parents with children are given priority.

If you are looking for a nursery, there are three nurseries run by the Studierendenwerk in the immediate vicinity of the university and the Studierendenwerk halls of residence.

Contact: Family Service.

Several student residences run by the Studierendenwerk Bielefeld have barrier-free flats or apartments.

If you would like to apply for a barrier-free place in a student residence, we recommend contacting the Studierendenwerk's housing and room agency in advance to clarify your personal needs and possible available options.

Halls of residence run by other providers and the general housing market also offer barrier-free housing options. If you already have a flat and need to make adjustments, you can contact the housing advice service at Bielefeld City Council for support.

Qualification and Scholarship Programmes
Scholarships and study funding programmes promoted by the International Office for qualified students.

Graduation Scholarship (Bielefeld University)
Financial support for students in the final phase of their studies at Bielefeld University.

DAAD Scholarships
Government-funded scholarships for international students, researchers and graduates to study or conduct research in Germany.

Deutschlandstipendium / Germany Scholarship
Merit-based scholarship providing €300 per month, awarded by German universities to high-performing students, including internationals.

Social Scholarship (University-based)
Financial support for students in social or economic hardship, offered directly by universities or student services.

University Society Scholarships
Scholarships funded by university support associations or alumni networks for enrolled students.

Protestant Student Community (ESG)
Local scholarships and emergency funds for students active in Protestant student communities.

Catholic Student Community (KHG)
Financial support and small scholarships for students involved in Catholic student communities.

Scholarships for Students with Refugee Background
Targeted funding programs for students with refugee status studying at German universities.

ViSiB Emergency Aid
Short-term financial assistance for international students in acute financial emergencies.

ViSiB Short-Term Scholarships
Temporary scholarships for international students facing unexpected financial difficulties.

Financial Support from Studierendenwerk
Emergency funds and social support programs offered by local student service organizations.

More information coming soon.

Arbeitsrechtsberatung (S1-208): Beratung zu Arbeitsverträgen, Kündigung, Lohn, Minijobs und studentischer Beschäftigung.
Öffnungszeiten: Mittwoch 11–16 Uhr

Allgemeine Rechtsberatung (S1-208): The AStA offers general legal counseling on a wide range of topics. The areas covered may vary, so it's best to reach out directly to find out whether they can help with your specific issue. Contact the AStA-Sekretariat (S1-204, Tel: 0521 – 106 3436) to inquire about current consultation hours.

Aufenthaltsrechtliche Beratung (Residence Law Counseling): For residence permit and immigration law counseling, see AK Asyl below.

Counseling at University (Beratungscafé): AK Asyl offers residence permit counseling at the AStA's Beratungscafé on Mondays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in room S1-212 at Bielefeld University. This is their main point of contact for students.

Main Office Services (Friedenstraße): AK Asyl's main office is located at Friedenstraße 4, 33602 Bielefeld, where they provide comprehensive counseling services:

• Social and Residence Law Counseling
• Asylum Proceedings Counseling
• Psychosocial Counseling for Survivors of Trauma, Displacement and Torture
• Counseling for Unaccompanied Minor Refugees (UMF)
• Medical Aid for Refugees (Medizinische Flüchtlingshilfe)

Studentische Rechtsberatung Bielefeld provides free legal counseling to students and staff of Bielefeld University by law students under the supervision of experienced attorneys. Room: S3-206, Tel: 0521 – 106 3173, Email: studentische.rechtsberatung@uni-bielefeld.de.

They offer legal advice in many areas of law, so simply reach out and ask whether your case is covered. However, they do not advise on tax law and cannot take up cases against Bielefeld University. The service is free of charge and strictly confidential. Consultations are in-person only (no phone or written advice). No court representation is provided. The maximum case value is €2,000.

How it works: Submit your request by email or contact form. The team will then review whether your case can be accepted. If accepted, two law students together with a supervising attorney will handle your case. In the first meeting, the facts of your case are gathered. In the second meeting, you receive a written legal assessment.

To get started, send an email to studentische.rechtsberatung@uni-bielefeld.de or use the contact form.

Unlike in party-based political systems, university governance in NRW is organised by institutional role, not by political party. Every member of the university belongs to one of four legally defined status groups:

• Professors (Hochschullehrer*innen)
• Academic Staff (Akademische Mitarbeiter*innen)
• Technical & Administrative Staff (Mitarbeiter*innen in Technik und Verwaltung)
• Students (Studierende)

Elections are held separately by group, and seats in governing bodies are allocated based on group membership. In purely academic matters (like exam regulations or degree programmes), professors are legally required to hold a majority. This structure shapes every governance decision at the university.

University governance operates through three types of structures:

Organs (Organe) are the legally established governing authorities with formal decision-making power. The main ones are: the Executive Board (Rektorat), the Rector (Rektorin), the University Council (Hochschulrat), the Senate (Senat), and the University Election Assembly (Hochschulwahlversammlung).

Collegial Bodies (Gremien) are multi-person groups that make or advise on decisions, for example the Senate, Faculty Councils (Fachbereichsräte), and the University Election Assembly. Some are also organs; others are sub-structures.

Committees (Ausschüsse) are sub-bodies created by a parent body for specific tasks. They may have delegated decision-making powers. Examples include the Budget Committee (Haushaltsausschuss) and Appointment Committees (Berufungskommissionen).

Advisory Commissions (Kommissionen) are usually advisory only. They prepare decisions but have no independent authority of their own.

The Executive Board (Rektorat) is the central executive authority of the university, comparable to the university's government. It manages all matters not explicitly assigned elsewhere by law. In practice, it is the strongest operational authority.

It consists of the Rector (Rektor*in) as chair, the Chancellor (Kanzler*in), and one or more Vice-Rectors (Prorektor*innen).

Key responsibilities:

• Strategic development of the university
• Budget management and financial administration
• Structural and personnel decisions
• Implementing decisions of the Senate and University Council
• Legal oversight over faculties
• Annual accountability reporting

The Rector represents the university externally, exercises domiciliary authority, and oversees academic obligations. The Chancellor heads the administration and can raise a suspensive veto against financially problematic decisions.

How are they elected? The Rector and Chancellor are elected by the University Election Assembly (Hochschulwahlversammlung). Vice-Rectors are elected on the proposal of the Rector.

The Senate is the central academic self-governing body, comparable to an internal academic parliament. It represents all four status groups and is where major academic decisions are made or prepared.

Key responsibilities include:

• Adopting and amending the university constitution (Grundordnung)
• Issuing and amending regulations, e.g. exam regulations (Prüfungsordnungen)
• Issuing framework regulations for studies and exams
• Issuing statements on the Development Plan, Economic Plan, and budget distribution principles
• Approving planning principles and structural decisions
• Participating in the University Election Assembly (Hochschulwahlversammlung)

In key academic matters, professors are legally required to hold a majority within the Senate.

The University Council (Hochschulrat) is an external supervisory and advisory body. Unlike other university bodies, its members are predominantly external, coming from fields such as business, academia, and civil society.

Key responsibilities include:

• Advising the Executive Board on strategic matters
• Approving the university's Economic Plan (Wirtschaftsplan)
• Discharging the annual financial statements (Jahresabschluss)
• Participating in the election of the university's leadership

The University Council provides strategic oversight but does not manage the university operationally.

The University Election Assembly (Hochschulwahlversammlung) is a joint body made up of the members of the Senate and the University Council. It has one crucial function: electing and dismissing the Rector and the Chancellor.

This makes it one of the most powerful instruments in university governance, as it determines who leads the institution.

Faculties are the decentralised level of university governance, each responsible for a specific academic field.

Each faculty has two key organs:

• The Dean (Dekan*in) leads the faculty and is responsible for teaching, personnel, and budget at the faculty level.
• The Faculty Council (Fakultätsrat) is the faculty's governing body. It decides on degree programmes, exam regulations, and internal faculty matters. Like the Senate, it is composed of all four status groups.

Every enrolled student automatically becomes part of the Student Body (Studierendenschaft). This is not just a symbolic membership. It is a legally recognised, financially autonomous, self-governing entity. The Student Body represents student interests both within the university and in society at large, promotes political education, and supports the social, cultural, and economic interests of students.

OmU (Original mit Untertiteln): Original version with German subtitles.

OV (Originalversion): Original version (no subtitles).

Arthouse Kinos Bielefeld

Arthouse Kinos Bielefeld operates two independent cinemas in Bielefeld: Kamera Cinema and Lichthaus Cinema. Both cinemas regularly show films in OmU (original with German subtitles) in various languages including English, French, Italian, and many others, making them ideal for students wanting to watch international films. Check the programme table to find current showings filtered by OmU.

Cinemaxx Bielefeld

Cinemaxx Bielefeld is a multiplex cinema with a variety of films. English-language films are shown here as well, but they're relatively rare (usually only a few per week). To find movies in English, go to "Alle Zeiten" (All Times) and filter by "Sprache Englisch" (Language English) in the filter options.

🎬 UniKino