Starting your studies

We are pleased that you have decided to begin a degree programme. With this guide, we would like to help you find your way into this new phase of your life and outline what to expect before and after you start your chosen field of study. We hope that with this information you will be well equipped for the start.

A disability or a chronic illness only becomes apparent in social contexts in non-accessible environments. The Disability & Diversity Office is committed to ensuring accessible study conditions. Studying with a disability also means taking different paths, and the Disability & Diversity Office will be happy to support you along the way.

The spectrum of disabilities and chronic illnesses is of course very broad. It ranges from paraplegia to psychosocial disabilities such as depression, ADHD or dyslexia. That’s why it is important to be sure what applies to you and what could help your situation. We will highlight some general points here. If you are unsure or do not find the information you are looking for in this guide, please do not hesitate to contact us.

The road to enrolment does not begin one month before, but much earlier. This means that you should research thoroughly and organise yourself well in advance. Our many years of experience have shown us that for people with disabilities who rush into applying are often left disappointed and frustrated. Students should try to get in touch with Disability & Diversity at least half a year before enrolment. This leaves enough time for counselling, good, comprehensive planning and organisation.

To choose the right degree programme for you, you should first ask yourself the following questions (all people interested in studying should ask themselves these questions, regardless of their health situation):

  • Why do I want to go to university?
  • What is my goal?
  • Which degree programme is suitable for me based on my strengths, resilience and interests?
  • Which skills do I already have and which do I still need to acquire in order to be able to complete my studies?

Once you have answered these questions yourself, discuss your thoughts with your family, friends and other supportive people. The Disability & Diversity Office can also help you answer questions or discuss the start of your studies.

Do some research on the internet on the university’s website and get information on the following topics:

  • Information on the degree programme
  • Degree programmes
  • Information points at the university
  • Events for prospective students
  • Possibly required entrance exams
  • Enrolment date
  • Support facilities for people with disabilities / chronic illnesses: at the University of Salzburg this is the Disability & Diversity Office