As a student of the University of Bonn, you have access to many University facilities and services. In addition, you can benefit from the University´s regional and international networks.
We would like to give you an overview of the different opportunities to get involved in the University community and to find the right support for your specific concerns.
Bonn, the region and the University offer many opportunities to attend events, play sports and visit theatres and museums among many other activities. If you will be staying for an extended period there are additional bureaucratic requirements, such as notifying the Citizens Service Center of your new address (‘Ummeldung’) when you are moving house within the city. Please find information on recreation and leisure, available German courses, events and much more in Bonn, providing practical tips for everyday situations, here.
Finding an affordable housing can be challenging for new students in Bonn, particularly for international students who may not yet be fluent in German. You can find helpful information here.
Traveling through Bonn and its environs
Getting around Bonn is easy with its well-connected public transportation system and bike and car sharing offers. For detailed information on mobility options please visit here.
Financial support
The financial support for the doctoral student is usually provided by the research group of the supervisor in which the doctoral thesis is being carried out. Salaries may vary. Details should be discussed with the supervisor. Contracts are concluded in consultation with the supervisor and the organisation to which the supervisor belongs (i.e. university, DZNE).
Further information on „How to finance your PhD“ can be found on the DAAD website.
Registration and tuition fees
Germany’s public universities generally charge no tuition. Students must pay a semester fee each semester and receive a student identification card. This student ID card serves as a ticket for free use of local public transportation and allows students reduced admission to the dining hall and many other facilities such as cinemas, theaters, swimming pools, museums, etc. There is also the possibility of accommodation in student halls of residence. There are no tuition fees for students to participate in the Bonn International Graduate School of Neuroscience.
Housing and living
Your expenses for housing and living in Bonn depend on your lifestyle and personal preferences. Please see here for an overview of costs, financing and funding opportunities for international students.
Transportation & Student ID card
Students with a student ID can use public transportation, including buses, trams, and trains, free of charge with the Deutschlandsemesterticket.
Until they receive their student ID, non-student employees can purchase a Deutschlandticket for local and regional public transport.
Libraries
Bonn University Library supplies scholars, researchers and students with the books, publications and information needed for university studies, teaching, research and continuing education.
Support for international students
The International Office works to address all the aspects of internationalization, from the provision of advice services to students and staff at the University of Bonn and those from our partner institutions visiting the University. This ranges from the provision of German courses to advice on funding and exchange programmes and on strategic questions pertaining to the development of international mobility and cooperation.
Support for families
The point of contact for staff and students with family responsibilities is the Office of Family Services. The Office contributes to a better compatibility of science/career/studies and family and provides advice to employees and students of the University of Bonn around the topics of childcare, maternity protection, parental leave, care of relatives and more.
Counseling and Support Services
Help in conflict situations
In the course of your doctorate, you may encounter various obstacles that need to be overcome. These may be difficulties with your scientific progress, conflicts with your PI, with other members of your research group or problems in your private life. A confidant with whom you can discuss such problems can help you find constructive solutions.
Counseling services for students
Coaching and psychological support
Advice and support for students on equality issues
The Equal Opportunity Officer can be the point of contact for these types of issues and problems: Problems in the workplace, e.g. with co-workers or supervisors, job application situations, bullying or sexual harassment.
Against Sexualized Discrimination and Violence at the University of Bonn
Policies for Protection Against Sexualized Discrimination and Violance
After graduation: Transitioning to a Professional Career
At the beginning of your career, it is essential to build a strong professional foundation while gaining specialized expertise. Our structured graduate programmes enables you to leverage your academic achievements and make a significant impact in your field. Many new graduates lack a clear understanding of working life after graduation. Conducting a careful assessment of your current individual strengths, skills, personal qualities, interests, working styles, and financial needs is a crucial and often underestimated step in planning your various career paths. The University of Bonn supports students and graduates in their transition from university to career by offering assistance throughout their studies. This support includes advisory sessions, workshops, and various career-focused events.
Alumni
The University of Bonn also offers a great alumni-networking opportunity: Not registered yet? (Please note that only alumni, students and staff of the University of Bonn are authorized to access this page and that your identity will be verified before access is granted.)
Stay connected! You can follow us on our LinkedIn account.