Student counseling at the state universities, universities of applied sciences/technical colleges and art colleges is provided by central counseling offices as well as by student counseling at the department level. The universities also have a representative for students with disabilities. He or she is available as a contact person for prospective students and students with disabilities, is involved in advising students in preparation for their studies, during their studies and in preparation for their careers, and, if necessary, works to compensate for disadvantages in the studies and examinations of students with disabilities.
The central counseling offices perform the following tasks:
- Information about general study conditions and study opportunities at the university, especially about study contents, duration of studies, degrees, examination matters, admission requirements and restrictions;
- Pre-study orientation in schools that grant eligibility for university studies;
- Counseling in personal matters (psychological counseling);
- Counseling in social matters and financial aid issues.
From time to time, career counselors from the employment agencies are also available in the rooms of the central counseling centers for instruction on career-relevant aspects of an academic education.
The academic advising service is aimed specifically at students in a given department throughout the course of their studies. Their responsibilities include advising on study options and study techniques in the particular field. Selection and enrollment of courses (curriculum design), study success checks, exam preparation, possibilities of advanced and supplementary studies.
Foreign students are comprehensively supported and advised by the International Offices at the universities.