Studying in Graz

Informationfor foreign students

Graz July 2004 H Uni Graz

AAI Graz

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Table of Contents

Table of Contents............................................................................ 0 About the Booklet .......................................................................... 3

About the addresses and phone numbers ..................................... 3 The focus on gender sensitivity and gender neutrality................. 4 Authorship and Support ............................................................... 4

General Hints on Living in Graz .................................................... 5 The City of Graz .......................................................................... 5 The University of Graz ................................................................ 5 Life in Graz - Some hints and general information...................... 6 Mobility in Graz........................................................................... 7

Studying in Graz............................................................................. 9 Possibilities .................................................................................. 9 Terms and Abbreviations............................................................ 12 The Admission Procedure .......................................................... 16 Admission Regulations .............................................................. 18 Student fees ................................................................................ 25 Recognition of foreign degrees (Nostrifizierung) ...................... 26

Residence permit and Meldewesen........................................... 28 General Information ................................................................... 28 Erstaufenthaltserlaubnis First steps ..................................... 28 Prolonging the residence permit................................................. 30 Registration Meldewesen .................................................... 31

Housing ........................................................................................ 33 Provisional Housing................................................................... 33 Dorms......................................................................................... 33 Sharing apartments, subcontracting, apartments........................ 33 Housing Office ........................................................................... 33 Free advice for tenants ............................................................... 34 Important Facts .......................................................................... 35

Working in Austria ....................................................................... 37 General Issues ............................................................................ 37 Exceptions to the Law on the Employment of Aliens................ 37

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EU citizens from new members (entry on May 1st 2004) .......... 38 Working with a student visa ....................................................... 38 Further types of work permits .................................................... 40

The Insurance Issue...................................................................... 42 Health Insurance - Krankenversicherung................................... 42 Free Insurance ............................................................................ 43 H Accident and Liability Insurance......................................... 44 Auerordentliche Studierende - non-degree students ................ 44

Financial Support ......................................................................... 45 Studienbeihilfe ........................................................................... 45 Familienbeihilfe (Family Support)............................................. 46

Students.................................................................................... 47 Addresses supplement .................................................................. 53

Consultations on student issues.................................................. 53 Universities in Graz ................................................................... 54 Dekanate (the Deans offices) of the Karl-Franzens-Uni Graz.. 55 Specialized Colleges in Graz ..................................................... 55 German Courses in Graz ............................................................ 56 Working in Austria ..................................................................... 57 Finding a residence in Graz / dormitories .................................. 58 Health Issues .............................................................................. 60 Counceling Services on Social Affairs....................................... 61 Federal Ministries ...................................................................... 63 Consulates in Graz ..................................................................... 64 Foreign Cultural Institutes ......................................................... 65 Religious communities............................................................... 65 Christian students support in Graz ............................................ 65 Christian Churches ..................................................................... 66 The Opera und Theaters of Graz................................................ 67 Cinemas...................................................................................... 67 Students Cafeteria ..................................................................... 68

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About the Booklet

This booklet was created by the Studienreferenten (person in charge of students support) at the

African-Asian Institute, committed foreign students and some members of the H (sterreichische

Hochschlerschaft, students union) at the University of Graz, partly in their free time. Its accuracy

was checked by several experts (especially the chapter on admissions, which was looked over by

the head of the Studien- und Prfungsabteilung (registrars office at the university) as well as the

chapter on working in Graz, which was looked over by the head of the department for employment

of foreigners at the AMS (Arbeitsmarktservice, labour market service) Graz.

The booklet contains information on topics relevant to studying in Graz, especially an overview on

the complex topic on admissions to Austrian universities as well as other topics of concern for

foreign students in Graz: jobs, dorms and apartments, insurance, financial support, as well as other

hints and useful addresses.

The creator is open for any suggestions and thankful for any hints concerning mistakes and

questions in order constantly to improve the booklet.

Contact:

Tristan Aichinger, Studienreferent des

Afro-Asiatischen Instituts Graz

Leechgasse 22, 8010 Graz

Tel.: 0316 / 32 44 34

www.aai-graz.at

About the addresses and phone numbers

The authors cannot be held liable for any possible mistakes in the addresses and phone numbers

mentioned. Remember that the area code is 0316, if you want to place an international call you have

to predial 0043 (Austria)-316.

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The focus on gender sensitivity and gender neutrality

The authors of this booklet used gender-neutral terms as far as possible while creating the text.

Given the goal of readability however, we had to abandon the constant use of gender sensitive

terms.

Authorship and Support

The following people cooperated in creating this booklet:

Authors:

Aichinger Tristan, Primorac Zrinka, Raji Kristina, Riepl Edith, Schnberger Jochen

Proof-readers:

Gollob Helga, Mindler Ursula, Steiner Anna, Szeberniy Andreas, Wagner Peter, Stephan Maier

The project was sponsored by the H at the University of Graz.

Special thanks to the Studien- und Prfungsabteilung (registrars office at university) of the

University of Innsbruck, the Federal Students Union (H) and the International Office of the Karl-

Franzens-University Graz who gave their permission to use text from some of their brochures in

this booklet. The chapter Admission Regulations used parts of the information brochure in

German Das Studium an der Universitt Innsbruck - Informationen fr Studienbewerber mit

auslndischem Reifezeugnis" of the University of Innsbruck and parts of the booklet Studieren in

sterreich by the H. The chapter General Hints on Living in Graz is largely based on the

Welcome Guide of the international office, which is designed for exchange students. Check:

http://www.kfunigraz.ac.at/bibwww/welcome/studierende.html

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General Hints on Living in Graz

The City of Graz

Graz, capital of the province of Styria, is the second largest city of Austria and due to its

geographical position, an important turntable for the greater South-East European region as well as

a center for science, culture and economic activities. The historic center of Graz was awarded the

UNESCO title of world cultural heritage due to its Renaissance-style buildings, Baroque churches,

its small alleys, and inviting squares. Graz used the year it had the honor of being the European

Cultural Capital to present both those of its qualities that had been growing over the centuries as

well as those that were newly created to an international audience.

The variety of culture offered is strongly influenced be student participation. Some 37.000

University students and an additional 2.000 students at work-oriented colleges enjoy the student

infrastructure, great libraries, comfortable restaurants, sponsored Mensa-dishes, affordable living

quarters as well as the general atmosphere of the city with its many parks and biking opportunities.

Information concerning the sites of Graz and the surrounding area are obtainable at the

Tourismusbro:

Herrengasse 16, 8010 Graz

Tel.: 0316 / 8075-0

Or check: http://www.graztourismus.at/

The University of Graz

The University of Graz has been a cornerstone of both the life in and the appearance of Graz for

more than 400 years. Famous scientists have conducted research and achieved revolutionary

breakthroughs. The historicism-style main building in the center of the campus close to the historic

inner city is symbolic of the rich history of the university. The innovative new buildings, many of

them created by famous architects from Graz, symbolise dynamism and growth.

Pictures and further information are obtainable at:

http://www.kfunigraz.ac.at/onlinetour/

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The following link will show you a current academic calendar:

http://www.uni-graz.at/zvwww/studinfo.html

Life in Graz - Some hints and general information

The cost of living in Graz primarily depend on what kind of residence you pick and on whether you

go out to eat or cook for yourself (which is what most Austrian students do). We recommend to

expect expenditures of at least 580 each month for living and personal affairs.

There are plenty of reductions in Graz and all around the county if you are a student. You get a

great deal on a good meal in the UNI-Mensa, in the RESOWI-center and in the Catholic Mensa

(addresses are attached). The courses offered by the sports institute of the university (USI) are an

additional plus (additional must; another offer) for students. Application fees are low, ranging

mostly from about 8-12 per class. The application procedure starts a little earlier than the semester

in the main building of the university.

As a student, you can also relax by travelling using of the BB (sterreichische Bundesbahnen,

Federal train system). If you are under the age of 26, you can obtain a Vorteilskarte (discount card),

which will allow you to travel for half the regular price in all of Austria. You can get this special

card at the main train station of Graz (you will need a passport-style picture and a student ID); it

will cost you around 20 and is valid for a year.

Moreover, you can get cheaper student prices at cinemas, theatres or the opera with your student

ID. If you want to subscribe to a newspaper your student ID will also help to save money.

If you plan to spend the summer, you have to get a special vaccination because of the high number

of ticks in the area, which can transmit Meningitis. For an effective immunisation you will need two

injections, one in March and a second one 3-4 weeks later. The costs depend on whether you will

have GKK-insurance (see chapter Insurance).

If you have to take prescript drugs, you should bring along the prescription from your doctor with

proper explanations for their use. That way it will be easier to get the drugs in Austria. You can get

both prescription drugs and normal drugs in local pharmacies. Drugs and prescription drugs can be

bought in the pharmacy.

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Electricity voltage is 220 volts, power outlets are to be used with two-phase sockets. So if you plan

to use electric devices that do not comply with what was said before you should buy an adaptor.

In Austria, every household in which a radio or TV is in use has to pay a monthly broadcasting fee

(Rundfunkgebhr). The office responsible for this is the GIS (Gebhreninformationsservice, fee

information service) of the ORF (sterreichischer Rundfunk, Austrian Public Broadcasting

company). For a radio alone, the fee is some 6-7; for both radio and TV the fee amounts to about

22 each month. Because of considerable punishments in the event of proven unauthorised use of a

TV or radio, it is a good idea to report yours. The forms you need for proper registration of your

radio or TV are obtainable at Post Offices or the GIS service offices.

GIS Gebhreninfoservice

Grieskai 10, 8020 Graz

Tel.: 0810 00 10 80

http://www.orf-gis.at/

Mobility in Graz

Bus and tram stations are marked by yellow signs with a green H (for Haltestelle). Timetables

and the direction of the trams are placed under the sign. The heart of public transport is the

Jakominiplatz (Jakomini square), where most bus and tramlines cross. One-hour tickets cost about

1,70 and you can get them in the bus/tram (ask the driver, do not wait for controls). Within that

hour you can change busses or trams as you wish, and the GVB (Grazer Verkehrsbetriebe, Service

Center of the Public Transport Company) of Graz offers detailed information on all tram and bus

lines.

Here is a general overview of the fares:

Einfache Fahrt Standard ticket

1,70 1 Stunde gltig, fr 1 Zone Valid for one hour, 1 zone

Tageskarte Ticket for the day

3,40 24 Stunden gltig, fr 1 Zone Valid for 24 hours, 1 zone

Wochenkarte Ticket for a week

8,20 1 Woche gltig, fr 1 Zone 1 week, 1 zone

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Monatskarte Ticket for a month

28,30 1 Monat gltig, fr 1 Zone 1 month, 1 zone

Jahreskarte Ticket for one year

271,00 12 Monate gltig, Foto erforderlich, 1

Zone 12 months, picture required, 1 zone

10-Zonenkarte

(Zehner-

Block) 10-zone ticket

13,00 gltig innerhalb von Graz Works within Graz

For additional information, check:

http://www.gvb.at

Every new ticked needs to be stamped in an orange device, which you will easily recognise. If you

should encounter a ticket controller without a valid ticked, you will not only pay the normal fee but

also a considerable fine. Unfortunately, there is no general reduction for students at the GVB, there

is an excemption only for recipients of family support.

Many students in Graz use the bicycle as an easy and cheap means of transportation. It therefore

can be a good idea to consider acquiring one for your stay in Graz.

Graz has a number of different cab companies. There are several spots where you will find several

cabs at every given moment, like on Hauptplatz (Main Square), in front of the main building of the

University, at the train station and at many other central spots. Naturally, you can always just call a

cab. The minimal fee for a cab is identical for all cab companies in Graz ( 4). Using a cab to get

from Hauptplatz to the university will cost about 5 to 6, depending on traffic and the time of your

trip. A trip from the airport to the university will cost you around 17. Here are some of the phone

numbers of bigger cab companies: 0316 / 878, 0316 / 889, 0316 / 222, 0316 / 444, 0316 / 555 or

0316 / 2801.

There are other ways to get to Graz from the airport of Vienna. Arriving at the airport in Vienna,

you can use the Shuttle-Bus to get to the Southern train station of Vienna. Once you are there, you

can obtain a ticket to get to Graz for about 27 (one way). A train leaves for Graz every hour, one

out of two of those go to Graz directly, without you having to change trains. Arriving at Graz

airport, you can take the Shuttle-Bus to the main train station, from where you can proceed by tram

or bus.

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Studying in Graz

Possibilities

Graz actually has four Universities: The Karl-Franzens-University, the University of Technology,

the University for Music and Art and the Medical University. Information on studying at those

universities can be found on the respective homepages and on those of the student organizations.

Apart from those universities there are several Fachhochschulen (colleges of higher education).

Those focus on practical education, offer a narrow number of study possibilities and have special

application and acceptance procedures (and semester fees). In Graz there are the Johanneum

college, the Campus02 college education. This brochure gives information on studying at

universities only, info on colleges of higher education can be found at http://www.fh-joanneum.at

and http://www.campus02.at .

Universities in Graz

Karl-Franzens-University Graz (KF-Uni, Uni Graz) Universittsplatz 3, 8010 Graz Tel.: 0316 / 380-0 http://www.kfunigraz.ac.at Technische Universitt Graz (University of Technology, TU) Rechbauerstrae 12, 8010 Graz Tel.: 0316 / 873-0 http://www.tugraz.at Universitt fr Musik und darstellende Kunst Graz (University of Music and Performing Arts, Musik-Uni, Kunst-Uni, KUG) Leonhardstrae 15, 8010 Graz Tel.: 0316 / 389-0 http://www.kug.ac.at Medizinische Universitt Graz (The Medical University, Med-Uni) Universittsstrae 3, 8010 Graz Tel.: 0316 / 380-4000 bis -4015 http://www.meduni-graz.at

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The offered studies can be categorized in different groups, according to structure and the degree.

Following that system, university education can be offered as a bachelor, master, diploma, or

Lehramt (see explanation below) program.

The Diplomstudium (which in its classic form could be compared to a combined bachelor and

masters program) is divided in two or three parts and generally lasts about 8 semesters, but can take

significantly longer in several programs.

The Lehramtsstudium (which entitles the successful student to teach at higher and middle schools

in Austria) can generally be compared to the Diplomstudium, but includes several courses on

educational theory. Diplomstudien are offered as programs on one general subject, but there are

exceptions: If you pick the program on translation and interpreting you also have to pick two

languages and if you pick the Lehramtsstudium, you have to pick two subjects to teach later on. In

both programs, you will be awarded the title of magister/magistra upon completion.

Due to an enhanced focus on comparability of degrees in the EU, an ever-increasing number of

programs are transformed into bachelor and magister/master studies. A bachelor program lasts 6

semesters. It takes two major papers and in some cases a special exam to get a bachelors degree.

Upon completion of the bachelors program or a comparable degree there is the option to go for the

Magisterstudium (masters program), which usually takes four semesters.

PhD (or MD, JD, Doktorat) programs take at least 2 semesters, most of them however last 4

semesters, and all of them require a Magister or a comparable degree. These programs generally

focus on a major paper, the Dissertation, but also contain several courses.

Beyond the options mentioned there also are Universittslehrgnge, which serve the purpose of

additional education for academics and take two to four semesters. Often, they are postgraduate

programs. Some of them (postgraduate Master programs) lead to degrees. Generally there are high

course and exam fees to consider. Moreover, in most cases there are strict criteria of admission and

a limited number of places. As participant in an Universtittslehrgang one is enrolled as

extraordinary student. Information about content, costs and terms of admission are available at the

Lehrgangs-secretariates. For information about the offered Universittslehrgnge, check:

http://www.kfunigraz.ac.at/weiterbildung/programm/index.html

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Another possibility of defining studies is the division into Studienrichtungen (branches or

subjects), like Mathematics, Pharmacy, Business Administration (BWL) or Law

(Rechtswissenschaften). For a general overview of all of the 62 branches (subjects) offered by the

Karl-Franzens-University (including information on whether they are offered as bachelors, masters

or Diploma programs) check:

http://www.kfunigraz.ac.at/4students/indexangebote.html

or:

http://www.kfunigraz.ac.at/ainst/services&produkte/srf/index.html

Another option is to get the free H-booklet Studienfhrerin, in which all branches are listed. In

order to get to know the exact content of each of the branches, one can check the Studienplan

(study guide) of the branch of your choice, in which all mandatory courses and exams for that

branch are summarized. You can also download all study guides at:

http://www.uni-graz.at/zvwww/studplan/alphabet.html

Moreover, there is a Studienleitfaden for each branch (subject), in which students compiled

useful hints and explanations. Those Studienleidfden are obtainable at the H-building,

Schubertstrae 6a.

A hint: Most branches (subjects) are organized in a way that there are no fixed courses each

semester. Instead, a student can pick from a variety of offered courses in that subject. This might be

a big challenge for beginners, but there are great advantages: While you have to follow certain

guidelines, you often will be able to decide which courses you wish to pick. However, in order to

extend your title of residence as a foreign student (see chapter on residence permit and

Meldewesen) or to get family support (see chapter on financial support), you have to pass a

certain number of credit hours (each course or exam is worth a certain amount of hours).

For an overview of the offered lectures, you can either buy the Verzeichnis der

Lehrveranstaltungen, or check: http://lv-online.uni-graz.at

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Terms and Abbreviations

In the beginning all the university terms and abbreviations might confuse you. Here comes a short

overview of the most important terms to help beginners find their way.

WS und SS: The university year is organised in a winter semester (WS) and a summer semester

(SS). Courses in the winter semester last from October until the end of February, the ones in the

summer semester from March to early July. The equivalent to summer semester is spring term and

to winter semester it is fall or autumn term.

Semesterwochenstunde / ECTS

The system of Semesterwochenstunden (roughly translated credit hours) serves to determine the

extent of a course. The system is quite easy, once you are used to it: If a course of two credit hours

is offered, the class will take place during one semester for two 45 minutes lessons a week

(normally 15 times). It is also possible that a class wont be held each week but in sessions of one

or several days. In addition to the credit-hour-system there is the ECTS (European Credit Transfer

System), points system, which gives an overview on how much time a class takes and how much

work it is to take the class. 30 credits are normally taken each semester. Within the next few years

the university system will start working exclusively with the ECTS system. At the moment the

credit hour system is still predominant.

The organizational structure of the University

Rektorat: University management, one Rektor and four Vizerektoren (vice principals).

Fakultt (faculty/department): Organizational unit in which all Studienrichtungen (see above) of

one area are united. Head of the department is the Dekan (dean). However, many decisions

concerning courses and exams fall within the responsibility of the Studiendekan (roughly: dean for

student affairs). For example, he is the one who takes care of the recognition of exams taken

abroad.

The Karl-Franzens-University Graz has 5 departments:

SOWI Sozial- und Wirtschaftswissenschaftliche Fakult

Faculty for Social Sciences and Business School

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REWI Rechtswissenschaftliche Fakultt

Law School

GEWI Geisteswissenschaftliche Fakult

Humanities Department

NAWI Naturwissenschaftliche Fakult

Department for (Natural) Science

THEO Katholisch-Theologische Fakult

Catholic-theological Department

Institut (institute): organizational unit of a branch of studies

Organisationseinheit einer Studienrichtung

Lehrveranstaltungen (courses, lectures)

Since there are different types of lectures in the different Studienrichtungen (branches of studies),

you wont find detailed information in here. You can always check with the students

representatives of your Studienrichtung (branch of studies) or look into the respective study guide

(see above) to find out the meaning of all the different abbreviations for the lectures.

There are two different types of lectures: Lectures with constant examinations, where the

performance is assessed during the semester through participation, midterms, presentations, projects

and papers. The number of students in those lectures is generally limited, which is why you

normally have to register for them. In each Studienrichtung (branch of studies), some types of

lecture are especially widespread. Typical lectures with constant examinations are Seminare

(seminars) or Kurse (courses).

Then there are those lectures without constant examinations, where the performance of the student

is assessed after the lecture itself. The main type of this model is the Vorlesung (VO). A Vorlesung

means the professor practically giving a speech in front of the students and there is typically very

little interaction between the professor and the students. You do not have to register for this kind of

lecture, and anybody can come and listen to the Vorlesung.

Tutorium: This type does not count as a lecture type, which you have to pass to earn a degree, but

still it is a good idea to participate. In a Tutorium more experienced students help with questions

concerning your studies and even give you a chance to train or repeat what you have learned in

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lectures or what you may have neglected. A Tutorium usually takes place once or twice a week.

Services offered at the university

(addresses listed at the end of the booklet)

BIB Bro fr Internationale Beziehungen (Office for International Relations), the office which

takes care of incoming as well as outgoing exchange students.

UB Universittsbibliothek (University Library), structured in the Hauptbibliothek (Main Library)

und Fachbibliotheken (specialized libraries)

Hauptbibliothek (Main Library) located in the main building, often called UB, most of

its books can be ordered though the Aleph computer system, it has a big reading room and a

section with current magazines on a broad range of scientific topics.

FB (Fachbibliotheken, specialized libraries) Libraries of the institute or groups of

institutes, therefore also called IB (Institutsbibliotheken - libraries of the institutes), placed at

various different locations.

USI Universittssportinstitut (University Institute for Sports), a special USI-booklet informs on

the wide range of cheap courses, registration at the start of the semester in the sub floor of the main

building (Universittsstrae 3)

Studien- und Prfungsabteilung (Department for University Studies and Exams, registrars

office) StPA, main registrars office at the university, responsible for the administration of student

data (like admission, Inskription, student success reports, etc.)

ZID Zentraler Informatikdienst (Central Computing Services), administers all computer

installations of the university, including the computer accounts of the students

Career Center an institution which is co-funded by the university. Its goal is to help students

start their professional life. For example, they offer help on how to write applications or how to get

access to job data networks.

Treffpunkt Sprachen (meeting place languages) The International Language Center of the

University of Graz, offering cheap language programs which are under high demand.

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H sterreichische Hochschlerschaft (Austrian National Union of Students): Students

representation and advice service by students for students

H-Servicecenter: Selling scripts, office supplies, copy cards, bookbinding, copying opportunities

AD sterreichischer Austauschdienst (Austrian Exchange Service). Society with far-ranging

responsibilities concerning the organization of and care for education and mobility programs (e.g.

looking for a place to live for exchange students).

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The Admission Procedure

This part of the booklet describes the general admission procedure. Detailed Information on which

documents and in which form those are needed can be found in the part on admission regulations.

In order to be able to study at an Austrian university, you have to fill in an application for

admission to the university and hand it in at the proper Studien- und Prfungsabteilung (registrars

office at university) with all necessary documents attached. In some fields of study you also have to

pass an entry exam. The application does not have to be handed in personally. Direct contact to the

Studien- und Prfungsabteilung (registrars office) can however be helpful in most cases in order to

find out which documents are needed for each case.

The Studien- und Prfungsabteilung (registrars office) then checks the application and the attached

documents. In some cases it is necessary to verify the documents or to ask for further documents

from the applicant. Because of this the duration of the admission procedure can last a little longer.

Normally it takes the office between several weeks and months, and according to the law it does not

have to be finished before 6 months are out.

You also have to consider that foreign applicants only get admitted according to open places. At the

Karl-Franzens-University, only a limited number of students get admitted to the studies of

pharmacy.

If the decision on the application is positive, the applicant will get a reply which confirms the basic

admission, sometimes prescribes some additional exams (see German skills) and tells the

applicant which documents to bring along at the enrolment.

With the reply and a valid passport the path once again leads to the Studien- und Prfungsabteilung

(registrars office), where the inscription (registration with the university system) is conducted. If a

German test or some additional exam is prescribed, this registration will be conducted in the Bro

des Vorstudienlehrganges (see German skills). After the registration you get your student ID and

a paying-inslip for the student and H fees. As soon as that money appears in the university bank

account, you are finally admitted.

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After about two weeks the Studienbuchblatt (an official document with information about your

branch of studies), the confirmation of admission and information on your student account will be

sent to you by mail.

Studien- und Prfungsabteilung (registrars office) of the Karl-Franzens-University Graz

Universittsplatz 3, 8010 Graz

(Hauptgebude 1. Stock)

www.uni-graz.at/stpawww/index.html

Your contact: Helga Gollob

phone: 0316 / 380-2192

e-mail: stpa.zv@uni-graz.at

Monday Friday 9 a.m.-12 a.m.

During the admission period, also: Tuesday und Thursday 2 p.m. - 4 p.m.

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Admission Regulations

The regulation concerning the admission to an Austrian university is a complex area, since different

regulations apply to different groups of people. Moreover the basic idea is that only those persons

shall be admitted to the university who can prove general as well as specific maturity for the

university. To decide this, the system in Austria looks at the regulations in the country of origin.

Deadlines: For the winter semester (starts October 1st) the application needs to be handed in

before September 1st

For the winter semester (starts March 1st), the date is February 1st

If that date should be a Saturday or Sunday, the next regular week day becomes the last day to hand

in the application.

You can pick up the application for admission form in the Studien- und Prfungsabteilung

(registrars office) or download it at:

www.kfunigraz.ac.at/stpawww/formulare.htm

Do not forget to attach the following documents (exceptions: see below):

1 Matura: Secondary school leaving certificate. In Germany called Abitur. The final

examination at the end of the Gymnasium (roughly translated the branch of high school that

prepares for higher education). The grades of each of the completed subjects must be on the

document (the same goes for a different proof of your maturity for the university).

2 Zulassungsnachweis: Proof of your current right to enter the university in your country

of origin. Note: If there is no comparable branch of studies in the county where your

certification of maturity for the university was issued, you have to prove that you would be

admitted to the field of studies which comes closest to the branch of studies (the subject)

you wish to pursue in Austria. This proof has to be an official document proving your right

to enter the university in the country of origin as a normal student and it needs to be still

valid (recently issued and valid for the semester you plan to start your studies in Graz). If

there are no exceptions according to the regulations for Inlndergleistellung (equalization to

Austrian citizens concerning the rules, see below), the proof always has to be from the

country where you obtained your Matura (or equal proof of your maturity for university

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studies).

3 If you have any: proof of your German skills (see below chapter on German skills).

Accreditations and Translations (see below)

For EU citizens the general deadlines for admissions apply (winter semester: end of October, plus

extension period: 30.11. and summer semester Sommersemester: end of March plus extension

period: 30.4.). This means that an application can be handed in until the end of the extension period.

However, you should keep in mind that within the extension period the student fees are increased. It

is a good idea to apply before the start of the semester, because you might otherwise have a

problem getting into lectures with limited numbers of admission. Concerning other regulations,

especially the required proof of admission by the country in which your final high school

examination was issued; the regulations mentioned earlier apply as long as there are no other

exceptions.

Some groups enjoy Inlndergleichstellung (equal status with Austrian citizens), which means that

there is no need for a proof of admission to a university in the country where the Matura (see

above) was issued. Even the special application deadline and the limitations to enter certain

programs do not apply to those persons. But even they have to attach a Matura certificate and have

to take additional exams before being admitted if certain subjects are required to enter a certain

branch of studies and do not appear or do not properly appear on the Matura certificate.

Favoured by those exceptions are:

1. People who enjoy privileges and immunities in Austria due to the law or state treaties as

well as people who are out of the country in the service of the Republic while earning their

Matura and enjoy privileges and immunities due to the law or state treaties of that country as

well as their wives/husbands and their children. (A legitimation card of the Ministry of Foreign

Affairs serves as proof)

2. Foreign correspondents who are accredited and work in Austria as well as their

wives/husbands and their children. (A certified accreditation serves as proof)

3. Persons whose center of interest in their lives has been in Austria for at least five years and

without interruption or who are obliged to pay maintenance to at least one person to which this

applies. (In order to prove this, you need either a certification of your work or your insurance of

the last five years as well as the Meldebesttigung (registration certificate) - if you are proving

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that you paid maintenance as described above you also need the birth certificate or the marriage

certificate.)

4. Recipients of a scholarship for the studies they strive for either due to the provisions of state

contracts or by an Austrian territorial authority which, according to the financial provisions of

those territorial authorities are specifically reserved for scholarships. (The scholarship

notification serves as proof.)

5. Owners of a Matura of Austrian schools in foreign countries

6. Refugees according to the Convention on the legal status of refugees (you can prove this

either through your notification that you are a refugee according to the Geneva Convention or

through your refugee ID)

7. People from Sdtirol, Lichtenstein and Luxemburg

Hint: The proof of equal status has to be filed together with the application for admission!

In order to find out whether the regulations on equal status with citizens apply on a specific case,

you should check with the Studien- und Prfungsabteilung (registrars office) of your university.

Limited Admission

Students who successfully passed the first part of their studies at a foreign university can get a

limited admission for the duration of two semesters. This is a good option for any students who plan

to spend only limited time in Austria. The application for limited admission can be handed in until

the end of the admissions period (including the late period, until November 30th in the winter

semester or April 30th in the summer semester), other than that it works according to general

admission criteria for foreign students.

Continuing your studies in Austria

If someone has already started his university studies in another country and wants to continue them

in Austria, there are two options:

1. You have a university degree comparable to a degree in the university program of your

choice in Austria.

2. You have completed several exams but have not yet earned a degree, which is comparable to

a degree in Austria.

If the comparability of the degree is doubtful, it has to be looked into by the Studien- und

21

Prfungsabteilung (registrars office).

1. Comparable degree:

If you have a bachelors degree and want to proceed to the masters program in the same area, these

are the regulations in place:

Instead of the Matura certificate you have to attach your authenticated bachelors certificates and a

certified translation to your application. You furthermore need the current proof of admission from

the state where you obtained your degree for the field of studies that you wish to proceed with in

Austria (exceptions see Inlndergleichstellung).

2. No comparable university degree:

If you cannot prove that you have a comparable degree, the regulations for beginners apply (see

above). Only after a successful admission to the program of your choice you can apply for

recognition of the studies and exams that you already completed at a foreign university.

The Studien- und Prfungsabteilung (registrars office) is not responsible for giving you

information on what exams will be recognized or at which level they will be recognized. The ones

responsible for that are the Dekanat (deans offices) of each faculty, but they can only act on

questions of recognition after your successful admission. The form necessary for the recognition of

exams can be downloaded at:

www.uni-graz.ac.at/zvwww/formulare/anerkennung-pruefungen-1-2.doc

Studying without the Matura

Normally the Matura (secondary school leaving certificate, further explanations see above) is a

prerequisite to enter an Austrian university. There is an option for adults to get the Matura in

special Matura schools using the Zweiten Bildungsweg (second or alternative education path).

There also is the option to take the Studienberechtigungsprfung (roughly translated: university

qualification exam) for one or several similar branches of studies. There is a special booklet of the

Ministry of Education, Science and Culture in German, which you can get in the Studien- und

Prfungsabteilung (registrars office). However, you should be aware that the preparation for the

Studiumberechtigungsprfung costs a lot of time, energy and especially good German skills.

German skills

22

The basic rule is that for a normal studies program at an Austrian university proper German skills

are a prerequisite. In case an applicant cannot prove those, the university can grant admission under

the condition that the student has to pass a German exam within three semesters. One way to prove

your German skills is a Matura certificate, which shows that the teachings were being conducted in

German.

The normal situation is that you apply for admission to a normal studies program and, if approved,

get a reply that you have to pass the German exam at the Vorstudienlehrgang (courses that prepare

you for the university). Depending on your language skills, you can take the exam at the end of the

vacation period or the beginning of the semester or register for a course. As long as you are

preparing for your language exam, your status is that of an auerordentlicher Studierender (non-

degree student). During this time, you do not have to pay student fees, only the H fees (fee for the

students union, about 15) and the course fee, which adds up to some 350 each semester. You

cannot take university exams, but can listen to lectures.

Vorstudienlehrgang of the Universities of Graz

Burgring 8, 8010 Graz

Tel.: 0316 / 83 14 96 11

www.vgu.at

The proof of language skills can be waived for anyone who applies for a doctorate, if German skills

are not required regarding the structure of the doctors program.

Accreditations and Translations

Normally all documents have to be filed accredited and with an accredited translation, as long as

there is no exception. English documents are accepted without translation, for other exceptions see

below. The accreditation of a document serves to confirm the authenticity of signatures and seals.

Therefore documents even have to be accredited if you hand in the original. The Ministry of

Education, Science and Culture laid down the conditions for accreditation for each country. For

further information, check with the NARIC (National Academic Recognition Information Center)

Austria.

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Contact: NARIC AUSTRIA

Bundesministerium fr Bildung, Wissenschaft und Kultur Abteilung VII/11

Teinfaltstrae 8, 1014 Wien

http://www.bmbwk.gv.at/universitaeten/naric/index.xml

1. The accreditation procedure in Austria: Confirmation of the document by the ministry of

education and the ministry of foreign affairs of the country that issued it and final

accreditation by the responsible Austrian representative agency.

2. The accreditation procedure outside of Austria: Confirmation of the document by the

responsible representative agency of the country which issued it and final accreditation by

the legalization office of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Contact: Minoritenplatz 9, 1014

Wien)

Translations

All documents that were not issued in German or English have to be translated into German by an

accredited translator. Note that all accreditation comments need to be translated and that the

signature of the accredited translator needs to be accredited by the responsible authority (like the

Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Translations by Austrian court-affirmed translators need no further

accreditation.

Generally there are administrative fees for accreditations. Prepare for high costs for accreditations

and translations!

Exceptions

No Accreditation: Because of bilateral agreements, documents of the following countries need no

accreditation as long as you hand in the original (with an official seal and stamp).

Bosnia-Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Germany, Finland, Italy, Croatia, Liechtenstein, Macedonia,

Norway, Poland, Romania, Serbia und Montenegro, Sweden, Schwitzerland, Slovakia, Slovenia, the

Czech Republic, Hungary

Accreditation by Apostille: Because of an agreement, documents of the following countries do not

need a full accreditation but rather a final accreditation (Apostille) by the responsible agency of the

country where the document was issued:

24

Andorra, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belarusian,

Belize, Botswana, Brunei, El Salvador, Estonia, Fidschi, Grenada, Greece, Great Britain and

Northern Ireland, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Japan, Kazakhstan, Columbia, Lesotho, Latvia,

Liberia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao, Malawi, Malta, Marshall-Island, Mauritius, Mexico,

Monaco, Namibia, New Zeeland, Niue, Panama, Portugal, Russia, Samoa, San Marino, Zimbabwe,

The Seychelles, Spain, St. Kitts und Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent/Grenadine, Switzerland, South

Africa, Suriname, Swaziland, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, Ukraine, Venezuela, USA,

Cyprus

The Apostille has to be attached to the original document and looks like this:

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Student fees

The student fees vary according to the country of origin of the foreign student. Normally foreign

students pay twice the fee Austrian students have to pay (= 726, 72). Citizens of the European

Union pay the same fee Austrians do, and students from least developed countries do not have to

pay at all. Because new rules are currently being drafted, this booklet cannot inform in detail about

this question. For current information, check the following homepage or contact the Studien- und

Prfungsabteilung (registrars office):

http://www.uni-graz.at/studienbeitrag/

26

Recognition of foreign degrees (Nostrifizierung)

The Nostrifizierung is the recognition of a foreign degree (by the office responsible for university

studies), which makes it equal to an Austrian bachelors, masters, or doctoral degree or a Diploma. It

means that it is completely equal in status to an Austrian degree, which is connected to the right to

apply for a job to which a degree is the prerequisite in Austria.

Application for a Nostrifizierung Generally the right to apply for a Nostrifizierung is reserved for those who prove that they have a

compelling interest in order to continue their studies or proceed with their professional life. In other

words the applicant has to prove that the Nostrifizierung is a necessary prerequisite for the activities

he strives for. In all other cases the assessment of the foreign degree is up to your employer. It is

therefore not possible simply to convert your foreign degree into an Austrian degree in order to

complete another degree in Austria. The Nostrifizierung is unnecessary and therefore not possible

for the admission to an Austrian doctors program.

EU-Regulation Inside the European Union or the EEC as well as Switzerland the admission to a couple of

academic professions is regulated in special Directions, which allow the members of those states

direct access to those jobs. In those cases a Nostrifizierung is unnecessary and therefore impossible.

Offices responsible You can apply for Nostrifizierung at any Austrian university, which offers a comparable Austrian

degree. Therefore, you can normally choose between several Austrian universities, indeed you can

pick your university. The important thing is that the Nostrifizierung is being taken care of by the

office of the Studiendekan who is responsible for the degree in question. Keep in mind that the

application for Nostrifizierung can only be handed in at one university and cant be handed in at

another university later on.

Required Documents 1. Passport

2. Proof concerning the status of the foreign university or other higher educational

institution

3. Detailed documents on the foreign studies, like exams, study guides, scientific papers...

4. Documents proving the completion of your studies and your degree

5. Information on the professional activities the applicant strives for

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Translation and accreditation of documents in a foreign language

Basically, the rules are like those concerning admissions (see admissions regulations). Therefore,

you can either hand in the original documents or accredited copies, documents issued in a foreign

language need to have accredited translations attached. All foreign documents need to be properly

accredited. The degree documents always need to be the original version.

Costs The fee for the Nostrifizierung is around 150 and has to be paid in advance. Also consider the

student fees ( 726, 72) for each semester, which you have to be registered as a student in order to

satisfy eventual conditions necessary to show that your studies are of equal value to an Austrian

degree.

The procedure of the Nostrifizierung The procedure is intended to clarify whether the content, extent and standards of the foreign degree

is similar enough to the Austrian degree in question. If the conditions are not met, you can still

satisfy them as extraordinary student.

All conditions, which you have to meet, are stated in a notice sent to the person applying prescribed

by the reply. If the applicant has met all additional conditions or no further conditions are

prescribed, the notice will grant the Nostrifizierung. The notice will also lay down which Austrian

degree is the equivalent of the foreign degree.

Alternative Possibilities in case of a negative reply If a Nostrifizierung is not possible because the differences between the degrees are too large, you

can apply for admission to an Austrian university program and then, after your admission, apply for

the recognition of single exams you completed in order to earn your foreign degree. Then you can

continue and complete the program and this way earn an Austrian degree.

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Residence permit and Meldewesen

General Information

The following information relates to the Austrian Foreigners Law in its current form and contain

the most important facts concerning the conditions of residence for students whose purpose of stay

is education.

Note: Students who are EU or Swiss citizens do not need a permission to stay in Austria; they only

have to register (see Meldewesen).

Asylum seekers and refugees are normally subject to different regulations.

All other groups of foreign students, who want to start or continue their studies in Austria, need a

residence permit.

Erstaufenthaltserlaubnis First steps

Foreign students get an Erstaufenthaltserlaubnis (roughly translated: first residence permit), if their

stay serves exclusively for the purpose of ordinary or extraordinary studies and the study time there

is not exclusively dedicated to studying German. This means that your stay in Austria has to be

exclusively dedicated to getting a university degree. Taking classes at the Vorstudienlehrgang

(course before starting to study) in German language is generally accepted and in nearly all cases

justified by the Zulassungsbescheid (noticing granting acceptance) issued by the respective

university.

Application for first residence permit

One has to bring the first application for a residence permit while one is still in ones home country

and not already staying in Austria. This means of course that one has to think about getting the

notice of acceptance to a university at the same time since the notice is a prerequisite to the

residence permit! The application papers are available at the relevant authority representing Austria

or on the homepage of the Austrian federal printing office (Staatsdruckerei) (click on download). If

your are applying for a student visa tick 7 Abs. 4 Z 1 RG: http://www.staatsdruckerei.at/

Necessary Documents

29

1. Completed application for residence

2. picture(s)

3. passport (or a copy)

4. birth certificate

5. certification of conduct issued by the police in your homecountry (not issued earlier than

4 weeks before application is handed in)

6. health certificate (also for students!)

7. Certificate that one has the minimum maintenance money to live in Austria: one has to

prove that he or she disposes of a minimum of 5.000 either in an Austrian bank account,

traveller-check or student grant from somewhere)

Furthermore one has to give ones future living address.

All documents that were issued in a language other than German have to be presented with

accredited German translation!!!

Relevant authority for issuing a residence permit 1. Austrian Authority representing Austria in another state (embassy, consulate). There the

permit is also issued if application can be granted!

2. Respectable authority in Austria (documents have to be sent by mail)

3. Respectable authority in Austria by a representative person already staying in Austria

4. The respective university (send by mail, university proceeds application to respectable

immunity)

For 2.) to 4.): At the authority it has to be declared to which embassy or other Austrian

representative the residence permit is to be sent, since the person applying for it has to pick it

up.

Furthermore it is possible to order the residence permit directly when applying for admission

to the university.

Those applying for the universities of art (in Graz the university for music and art) have to take

an entrance exam and therefore have to come to Austria before the start of classes. Therefore

they can apply for a Visa D while at the same time applying for a residence permit if proof of

the date of the exam is proceeded. If you come to Austra with the Visa D and pass the exam the

residence permit will be issued in Austria once you show the acknowledgement of the exam!

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It applies that:

1 Notice is given only at the time the permit is given.

2 The first residence permit issued will be good for 6 months.

Prolonging the residence permit

Application for prolongation can be submitted in Austria at the relevant authority of the Austrian

federal police, which is the Fremdenpolizei (police department section for aliens) of the federal

police department in Graz (see address below). The prolongation has to be applied for before the

first permit expires. Until a decision on a further permit is made one is permitted to stay in Austria

until notice is given. This applies even though one may not have a permit in the time the authority is

considering it.

The application paper for prolongation is available at the respectable Fremdenpolizei (address see

below). It can also be downloaded at the homepage of the Austrian federal printing office under

http://www.staatsdruckerei.at/ .

Generally prolongation is granted for a six month to two years period. The exact time depends on

the proof of financial resources and on-time study results, depending on the individual course taken.

Prolongation costs between 55 und 150, depending on the number of copies that have to be

made and the demands of the relevant application.

Documents needed

Generally all documents not issued in German language have to be submitted in an accredited

German version.

1. Completed application form,

2. your picture (recently taken)

3. passport (copy)

4. Meldezettel (certificate of registration) (copy)

5. Proof of Housing (lease contract)

6. Proof of Austrian Health Insurance

7. Proof of financial resources enabling you to stay (copy of bank account, checks)

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8. For proof of financial ressources: scholarship certificate

9. Certificate of further enrollemt

10. certificate that at least 8 Semesterwochenstunden (credit hours i.e. 16 ECTS) were

successfully passed per year

Concerning 10.): This condition is new and is a Kann-Bestimmung: This means that prolongation

frequently is granted only if the person proves reasons outside his influence or due to inevitable or

unforeseen events he could not meet that requirement. It is therefore up to the relevant authorities to

believe in the reason stated in an individual case or not!

Bundespolizeidirektion Graz Fremdenpolizei (Federal Department of Austrian Police-Police on

Alien Matters)

Parkring 4, 8010 Graz

Tel: 0316 / 888-3414 or -3419

Mo Fr. 8 a.m. 1 p.m.

Registration Meldewesen

If staying in Austria notice has to be given within three days to the authority responsible for

registration (Meldebehrde)! This notice has to be given in addition to the application for a

residence permit!

To give notice one has to fill out a Meldezettel (registration form) which is available at the authority

responsible for registration (Meldebehrde) also in English, Bosnian, and Croatian-Serbian, and

Turkish languages) or on the internet (only in German though):

http://www.graz.at/meldeservice/download.htm.

This form has to be signed by the landlord. With this signed form and your passport you then need

to go to the Meldebehrde again. This form should be kept safely since it will be needed when

contacting other authorities. It is necessary that you go through the same procedure every time you

change your apartment. This procedure is a must but is free though.

32

Zentrale Meldebehrde of the city of Graz

Beethovenstrae 9, 8010 Graz

0316 / 872-5151

Mo.: 7 a.m. 6 p.m.

Tue. Fr.: 7 a.m. 2 p.m.

33

Housing

Provisional Housing

If you cannot stay at the home of friends or relatives in the beginning, you could stay at a youth

hostel. With an international youth hostel pass, which you can buy there also (foto, about 15

depending on age, valid 1 year) spending one night costs about 20. If you do not stay longer than

three nights additional 3 have to be paid.

Jugendgstehaus

Idlhofgasse 74, 8020 Graz

Telefon: 0316 / 71 48 76

http://www.jgh.at/graz.php

E-Mail: jgh.graz@jgh.at

Dorms

The cheapest housing in Graz would be the dorms (Studierendenheime). The rent and prerequisites

for getting in depends upon in which one you stay at. Frequently there are many applicants,

therefore you need to apply early (for the winter semester in march). For more information check:

http://www.studieren.at/wohnen_graz.shtml

Sharing apartments, subcontracting, apartments

Cheap single apartments are hard to find in Graz. Many students share apartments, or subcontract.

In a shared apartment each student has his own room - bathroom, toilet and kitchen are shared.

Costs are decided in different ways. Subcontracting generally means that one single room is rented

in an apartment of for instance a family or a person living by himself.

Housing Office

Information on free rooms can be achieved in different manners. At the H (students union)

service centers of the departments you can find leaflets with free rooms, which were put there by

people renting rooms or former students looking for new students to rent their former room. The

Studentische Wohnungsservice (SWS, room service for students) offers a homepage on which you

34

can look for free rooms by typing in various criteria such as location. The SWS also has an office

were you can get information (see above). Also the Katholische Hochschulgemeinde (KHG) offers

a housing service. At the secretaries office booklets are offered. Furthermore information can be

found in newspapers such as the Kleine Zeitung, Steirische Fundgrube und Basar.

Studentisches Wohnungsservice (SWS)

Rechbauerstrae 4a, 8010 Graz

Tel.: 0316 / 81 69 32

http://www.sws.or.at

E-Mail: office@sws.or.at

Wohnungsservice der Katholischen Hochschulgemeinde (KHG)

Leechgasse 24, 8010 Graz

Tel.: 0316 / 32 26 28

E-Mail: khg@khg-graz.at

sterreichische Hochschlerschaft (H)

At the Karl-Franzens-University: Schubertstrae 6a, 8010 Graz

At the University of Technology: Rechbauerstrae 12, 8010 Graz

At the University for Music and Applied Arts: Leonhardstrae 15, 8010 Graz

Free advice for tenants

Amt fr Wohnungsangelegenheiten der Steiermrkischen Landesregierung

Dietrichsteinplatz 15, 8011 Graz

Tel.: 0316 / 877-3718 or -3719

Wohnungsinformationsstelle der Stadt Graz Tummelplatz 9, 2. Stock, 8010 Graz Tel.: 0316 / 872-5451 Mieterschutzverband sterreichs

Sparbersbachgasse 61, 8010 Graz

Tel: 0316 / 384830

35

Mo, Wed, Fr: 14:30 - 17:30

Advice, advice on legal matters, representation in court and at the Schlichtungsamt (membership

required)

Important Facts

Miete/Mietzins (rent): The rent is composed of the fee for using the apartment and the operating

costs (water, insurance, taxes). Electricity and heating costs are generally not included. In most

cases the rent has to be paid at the start of each month for the following month.

Mietvertrag (the contract): Usually the contract is in writing and signed by the tenant and the

landlord. There is the Hauptmietvertrag (contract between the tenant and the landlord) and the

Untermietvertrag (subcontract between the tenant and someone living in/in a part of his

apartment/house). In any case it is a good idea to let the contract be looked over by a

Mieterberatung (tenant counceling).

Mietanbot/Vorvertrag (provisional agreement): Some landlords ask for a provisional agreement

before signing the contract. That way you place an obligation on yourself really to take the room.

Therefore you should only sign when you are sure that you want to rent the place.

Kaution (security deposit): The landlord can ask for a security deposit up to the amount of the rent

for three months when signing the contract. With the deposit the landlord can pay for eventual

damage the tenant might cause. The tenant has a right to get his deposit back, if there are no

damages to the apartment and the rent has been paid. We recommend getting a written confirmation

that you had to place a security deposit, preferably on the contract itself.

Ablse (roughly: transfer fee): In some cases, the landlord or the previous tenant of an apartment

or room demands a certain amount of money for the furniture left in the apartment or for other

investments in the room/apartment. Beware! The Ablse are only legal if you get an appropriate

benefit in return. In many cases, you can negotiate on the conditions. A written contract is a good

idea.

Makler (real estate dealers): Makler are persons who will arrange a room for you in exchange for

a fee. This fee must not exceed the amount of the rent of three months (main rent + operating costs

+ tax). In some cases you might be able to convince the Makler that as a student you only have to

36

pay a reduced fee (like paying the equivalent of the rent of two instead of three months).

37

Working in Austria

General Issues

The current Austrian law on the employment of aliens was implemented on January 1st 2003. The

law regulates the conditions under which aliens can work in Austria.

A Beschftigungsbewilligung (employment licence) gives you the right legally to work in Austria.

The condition for such a license to be granted is a valid residence permit (like a student visa). With

such a regulated residence an application for a Beschftigungsbewilligung at the AMS

(Arbeitsmarktservice / the Labor Market Service) becomes possible. The application needs to be

filed by your employer. A commission decides, according to the current state of the job market,

whether a licence will be granted. The commission also has to consider the highest possible number

of licences given out by the federal and the provincial governments. The idea of that model is that

the number of foreign employees and foreigners on the dole does not exceed 8% of the number of

Austrian employees. The commission is composed of representatives of the GB (sterreichischer

Gewerkschaftsbund, the unions), the AK (Arbeiterkammer / workers chamber) and the

Wirtschaftskammer (chamber of commerce). For addresses of the AMS Graz look at the end of this

chapter.

Additional employment licences (for seasonal work) can only be granted if there is heightened need

for additional labour sources in a certain area of commerce, a certain profession or a region. In this

case, a general executive order by the ministry of labour and economy needs to be issued.

Exceptions to the Law on the Employment of Aliens

Some groups do not fall under the provisions of this law. Just as a foreigner with a proof of residence

they have unlimited access to the entire Austrian job market.

1. EEC and EU citizens (except citizens of the new members Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania,

Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Hungary and the Czech Republic)

2. Swiss citizens (after June 1st, 2004)

3. A husband/wife or child of EEC or EU citizens or of Swiss citizens

4. A husband/wife or child of Austrians with a valid right of residence

5. Recognized refugees (but not asylum seekers)

38

6. Teachers and scientists at the universities or scientific installations

EU citizens from new members (entry on May 1st 2004)

The new EU-citizens can live in Austria without a permit as of May 1st 2004. Still they have to apply

for a Beschftigungsbewilligung (employment licence), except for those new citizens from Cypress

or Malta. There is a seven-year provisional regulation for EU citizens from Estonia, Latvia,

Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, the Czech Republic, and Hungary (the 2+3+2 years model).

The provisional regulation is in place since May 1st 2004. According to this regulation, there is first a

two-year period in which the regulations of the Auslnderbeschftigungsgesetzes (foreigner

employment law) still applies. But since the new EU citizens no longer need permission to live in

Austria, all they need is a Beschftigungsbewilligung (permission to work in Austria). That way they

do have easier access to the Austrian Labour market. Moreover, there no longer is an income limit

for this group anymore.

After this first phase (two years) the EU Council will check whether this transitional regulation will

be extended for an additional three years (phase two). In 2009, the Council will decide whether to

extend the period for another two years (phase three). That way, even in a worst-case scenario for

new members, they will have the full right freely to reside and work in Austria within seven years.

Working with a student visa

The regulations from the Auslnderbeschftigungsgesetz (foreigner employment law) generally also

apply for foreign students.

Attention: An Aufenthaltstitel zwecks Ausbildung (specific type of certificate of residence, often

called Studentenvisum - student visa) does not give you the right to make a living mainly through

work in Austria. The upper limit of legal gross income is around 316 each month.

Based on this regulation, students who entered Austria with a student visa can only be granted a

Beschftigungsbewilligung (employment permit). If they could be awarded an Arbeitserlaubnis

(working permit) or a Befreiungsschein (another type of work permit, see below) this might result in

a problem due to the laws for foreigners, because a substantial amount of the income would be

earned through the job.

39

3 Ways to work in Austria with a students visa

1. Beschftigungsbewilligung (employment permit) bound to certain conditions

An employment permit makes it possible legally to work in Austria in a specifically

mentioned working place in Austria. The permit is valid for a maximum period of one year

and can be prolonged when applied for. Alien students can work on a minimum time basis

only, meaning that they are not allowed to earn more than 316 each month. Only between 1

July and 31 august can more money be earned.

Attention:

- If you change your job (either keeping your employer or changing the employer) you have

to apply for a new Beschftigungsbewilligung (employment permit).

- Consider the principle of Inlndervorrang (preferred treatment of citizens), which means

that the AMS is obliged by law to check whether a citizen or resident alien looking for a job

is suitable for the job in question, based on his qualifications and former employments.

However, this principle is of lesser importance concerning minor employments.

How to get a Beschftigungsbewilligung (employment permit)

1. Find an employer

2. The employer applies for a Beschftigungsbewilligung (employment permit) for the

employee

3. The AMS-Kommission checks the application (valid visa, the preferred treatment of

citizens principle and so on)

4. and finally decides whether to issue the permit.

The procedure is rather complicated and a Beschftigungsbewilligung (employment permit)

is hard to get and far from guaranteed. Since you have to prove that you will be able to

finance your stay in Austria for the student visa the AMS will assume that there exists no

financial necessity to get a job. It can be useful in some cases to state on your application

why your social and financial state has changed since your student visa was issued.

Currently the chances to get a permit are best if the job you apply for has some connection

with your area of studies. The connection between your studies and the job should be

stated on your application (e.g. if you study a language and want to work as a translator).

40

It can also be helpful to mention in your application the reason why the employer insists on

employing this specific employee (like special language skills)

The chances of getting a permit for a job in the area of cleaning are much better than in other

branches because in this area replacements are hard to find.

2. Independent work based on a Werkvertrag Whoever produces an ordered work (like a translation, presentation, et cetera) normally does

that based on a Werkvertrag (contract for work with special conditions) for which normally no

Gewerbeberechtigung (business licence) is required.

A person working on a contract basis (neuer Selbstndiger, new self-employed worker)

gives an opus for payment, but is not part of the employers organizational working unit.

Furthermore the focus is on the outcome of the work done: one has to bring the opus or another

certain result. No personal and economical dependence on the employer may be given. The

contractual relationship ends when the opus is brought. Therefore the opus brought or the result

achieved automatically ends the employment relationship. Contractual relationships are found

for instance with interpreters, experts and scientists. Attention: Working on a contractual basis

may need a permit if the working relationship is comparable to one of a regular worker. If you

are not sure about the situation in your specific case you had better ask the AMS.

3. Seasonal work

There are quotas for short time and temporary extra labour for tourism, agriculture and

forestry. The Bundesministerium fr Wirtschaft und Arbeit (Austrian ministry of economy and

labour) sets those quota by passing decrees also in other branches. Time limit: Working

permits for seasonal work last a maximum of six months and cannot be prolonged. With a

respectable decree existing, a permit can be issued for a two to six month period also.

Further types of work permits

The Beschftigungsbewilligung (working permit) can be transformed into an Arbeitserlaubnis

(labour permit), which is issued for the province in which you were last employed. In order for this

to happen, the foreign employee has to file an application with the AMS. The Arbeitserlaubnis

(labour permit) is issued for a maximum period of two years, but can be prolonged. With this permit

you can look for a job without requesting a Beschftigungsbewilligung at the AMS.

A Befreiungsschein also gives you the right to work without a Beschftigungsbewilligung. A

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Befreiungsschein is normally issued if you can prove that you were a registered employee for five of

the eight years prior to your request. Under certain conditions children, whose parents have been

legally living in Austria for at least five years, have the right to get the Befreiungsschein. Special

regulations also apply for Turkish citizens according to the Association Treaty between the EU and

Turkey, ( check http://www.migrant.at/de4.html).

The relevant AMS office is the one which is responsible for the area in which the main residence of

the applicant lies. The Befreiungsschein then is good for all of Austria and the foreigner has the

same rights as Austrians have rights when looking for a job.

Aliens with a Niederlassungsnachweis (those who have permanently lived in Austria for five years,

have a regular income as a result of a legal job and have fulfilled the Integrationsvereinbarung

(integration agreement) also have an unlimited right to work. The Niederlassungsnachweis is issued

for a period of ten years.

AMS The Graz Office Niesenbergergasse 67-69, 8020 Graz

Phone 0316 / 7080-0

http://www.ams.or.at

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The Insurance Issue

Health Insurance - Krankenversicherung

In order to get medical services for free in Austria, you have to file for health insurance. In Austria

local insurance agencies and private insurance companies offer health insurance. To get health

insurance not only saves you a lot of trouble but is necessary for your right of residence as a foreign

student.

Austria has signed cooperation agreements in the field of social insurance with several countries

(even outside the EEC). In those cases you only need a Betreuungsschein (roughly translated

welfare document) from your home country. Austrian students, students from a country with a

cooperation treaty in the field of social insurance, recognized refugees, as well as students whose

parents have to pay Austrian income tax since at least 5 years are also insured against accidents

according to the ASVG (Allgemeines Sozialversicherungsgesetz, The General Social Insurance

Law). There has to be a connection concerning time, place, and causality of the accident with your

studies. A list of countries with a cooperation treaty with Austria can be obtained at foreigners

office of the H on the Karl-Franzens-University and can be downloaded at:

http://www.wahlinfo-bmaa.at/up-media/681tabelle_soz.vers.abkommen_01.07.2003.doc

The cheapest way to get insured depends on the specific case. Here are some options:

If you

1. Are an Austrian resident (proof is the Meldezettel)

2. Have not yet earned a university degree (except if you continue those studies to get a

higher degree, like entering the Masters program after earning the bachelor)

3. Your income does not exceed 5.814 a year

4. Have not changed your Studienrichtung (branch of studies) more than twice, or have not

changed it after the third semester

5. Have not exceeded the intended time of your studies plus 1 semester. Here is an

example: If you are going for a bachelor in business administration (BWL), the intended

time upon completion is 6 semesters, insurance is possible for 11 semesters.

then the student insurance of the GKK (Gebietskrankenkassa, the local insurance agency) is the best

option, with costs of 20.38 each month. (address of the GKK see end of chapter). If students do not meet the conditions mentioned above, the H (students union) made a special

43

deal with the Merkur-Versicherung for students that are

1. Students of the university of Graz

2. Not older than 34 years

3. And do not suffer from any special illnesses (for detailed information, ask the H office

for social affairs.

This insurance costs 38,95 each month.

Free Insurance

Mitversicherung (Participation in the insurance of others)

If the parents, the wife or husband or the partner (the last option works only if you have shared the

same official address for at least 10 months), you can participate with their insurance until your

27th birthday. In this case you do not have to pay for the insurance and get the Krankenschein

(health insurance certificate) through the one insured. At each insurance agency there are certain

conditions (like bringing proof of your success at the university each semester).

Asylum Seekers

Asylum Seekers are automatically insured with the local insurance agency as long as they are under

Federal protection.

Recipients of an orphan pension, childcare support or Karenzgeld (money you receive while

being away from work for reasons of child care) are automatically insured with the local insurance

agency.

If none of the options mentioned above fits, the allgemeine Selbstversicherung (general self-

insurance) is a possibility. Depending on income, insurance agency and services the insurance fee

should be in the area between 72 and 292.

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H Accident and Liability Insurance

In Austria, every university student automatically is a member of the sterreichischen

Hochschlerschaft (H, students union). With your H-fee (contribution), which you have to pay

each semester, you finance among other things an accident and liability insurance with the Wiener

Stdtische insurance. Thanks to this insurance, the costs of accidents up to 2,500 will be

refunded by the insurance company. Also, if you are permanently hospitalised for an uninterrupted

period of at least three weeks you can get your student fee back. The insurance works for all

university buildings, and can extend beyond that if there is a direct connection between the accident

and university activities.

The insurance also covers accidents on H-events, in dorms, at university sports activities and

generally those happening during an exchange year. A typical case would be a bicycle accident on

your way to the university. However the insurance does not cover cases of willing destruction or

severe negligence. If there should be doubt if something is covered, check with the H office for

social affairs.

Auerordentliche Studierende - non-degree students

For those students which are admitted to the Studienberechtigungsprfung (university entrance

exam) and take preparation classes on those exams and for the future university course to be taken

(for instance German class at the Vorstudienlehrgang (see above) the same applies as mentioned

above.

Gebietskrankenkasse (GKK, the local insurance agency) Steiermark

Josef-Pongratz-Platz 1, 8010 Graz

0316 / 80 35-0

Sozialreferat der H at the Karl-Franzens-University Graz

Schubertstrae 6a, 8010 Graz

0316 / 380-2950

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Financial Support

Studienbeihilfe

Studienbeihilfe is the state support for students who meet certain conditions. Those normally are:

Austrian citizenship (exceptions: see below), social need (depending on the own income, the

income of the parents, siblings etc.), success as a student (studying within the regular time, no

change of your area of studies after the second semester, a certain number of

Semesterwochenstunden (credit hours, explanation see chapter on studying in Graz), not passing the

age limit (30 years, no earned degree, except if a subsequent higher degree is pursued). Following

those criteria, not all Austrian students get this financial support.

The upper limit for support (according to the area of residence) is between 400 and 600 each

month. Foreign students can claim this form of state support under the following conditions:

1. EEC citizen: Students with EEC citizenship who (or whose parents) have worked in

Austria for at least two years as long as they live and study in Austria.

2. Students with another citizenship: Students who were under the obligation to pay

Austrian income tax unlimited and uninterrupted for five years or students, who have a

parent to whom this applies.

3. Recognized Refugees, but not asylum seekers.

The Studienfrderungsgesetz is a complex law, which is why we cannot go into detail. You can

either check with the office for social affairs of the H or directly with the Studienbeihilfenbehrde

(the office in charge of student support).

Studienbeihilfenbehrde (Stip-Stelle)

Metahofgasse 30, 8010 Graz

Tel.: 0316 / 81 33 88-0

For further information, check: http://www.stipendium.at/

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Familienbeihilfe (Family Support)

The Familienbeihilfe is a state support for parents, to help them support their children. As long as

certain conditions (like the completion of a certain number of credit hours) are met, this support can

be claimed for children up to their 27th birthday who study at the university. The family support is

paid directly to the parents, but you can apply to the Finanzamt (internal revenue service) for the

support to be paid directly to the student.

Except for Austrian citizens the following groups of foreign students have a claim to family

support:

1. Foreign student, whose partner is an Austrian citizen

2. Students lacking any citizenship and recognized refugees (not asylum seekers)

3. Foreign students who live in Austria for an uninterrupted period of five years

4. Foreign students who have a job in Austria for at least three months

Note that there are many exceptions and additional provisions, moreover changes occur frequently.

It is always a good idea to check with your local Finanzamt (office of the internal revenue service).

Finanzamt (internal revenue service) Graz-Stadt

Conrad von Htzendorf-Strae 14-18, 8010 Graz

Tel.: 0316 / 881-0

Scholarships and other sources of support

Abbreviations see below!

Assistance Programme Assistance Directed at Deadlines Conditions Contact

Beihilfen, Frderungen

H AuslnderInnenreferat

(Sponsored by the City of

Graz)

Mensabons

(2975 /

year,

The entire

amount)

Regular foreign

students at the

KF Uni Graz

Mid-

October

or

Mid-March

Inskriptionsbest. Need,

Primarily students without a

Niederlassungsbew.

Inlndergleichstellung, ...

H at Uni Graz,

Schubertstrae 6a

8010 Graz,

0316 / 380-2962

H AuslnderInnenreferat

(Money from private

funds)

GVB-tickets

(900 / year,

The entire

amount)

Regular foreign

students at the

KF Uni Graz

Mid-

October

Like the Mensa-support, of

additional importance: residence

distant from the university

H at Uni Graz

Schubertstrae 6a,

second floor

8010 Graz,

0316 / 380-2962

H Sozialreferat Living s