For Incomings
The International Guide for student teachers in Würzburg
In this guide we have gathered information that we hope is useful for you as an international student teacher who either intend to study at the University of Würzburg and for you who have already begun your studies.
A glimpse of the University of Würzburg, a partner of the global network for teacher education
Würzburg: a young city, driven by its students
Würzburg is located in the heart of Germany’s Franconia region, surrounded by vineyards and beautiful river landscapes. The climate is mild, with warm summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters — perfect for enjoying each season to the fullest. In addition, the central location allows you to easily explore other German cities such as Frankfurt, Nuremberg or Munich.
With over 25,000 students, Würzburg’s social scene is vibrant and diverse, offering countless cafés, bars, festivals, and student events throughout the year. Meeting new people is easy, whether at university gatherings or in the city’s cozy old town.
Würzburg is rich in culture and history, home to the UNESCO-listed Residence Palace, numerous churches, and various museums. Students can enjoy concerts, theatre performances that bring the city to life. Enjoy different local wine or other (traditional) festivals in spring and summer or warm up in winter with a mug of Glühwein/Punsch at the Christmas market, e.g. at the Wein am Stein, Kiliani Volksfest, U&D, Campuslichter, Mozartfest or Africa Festival – just to name a few.
Study related information (focus on teaching degree)
The academic year is divided into winter and summer semesters, with lecture periods and breaks in between. Major lecture-free periods are around Christmas/New Year, Easter, and in summer from August until October; public holidays vary by state with – regarding the number – Bavaria taking the top spot.
Teacher education at the University of Würzburg combines simultaneously subject knowledge with pedagogical training and practical school placements. In Bavaria, teacher education is subdivided according to the different types of school. This means that there are curricula for primary, vocationally oriented secondary (Mittelschule), professionally oriented secondary (Realschule) and university-preparatory secondary (Gymnasium) school teacher education as well as for special education. We, the Professional School of Education (PSE), are the university's central office for all questions and concerns related to teacher education. Don’t hesitate to contact us prior or during your stay!
WueStudy is the central platform for course registration, grades, and timetables. WueCampus is the university’s online learning platform, where students access lecture materials, submit assignments, and connect with classmates and lecturers.
The University of Würzburg is open to all suitable applicants. In order to take into account the needs of students with disabilities and chronic illnesses and to enable them to study at an academic college or university, the Bavarian Higher Education Act requires all universities to appoint a representative for this group of students. More information can be found at the Kontakt- und Informationsstelle für Studierende mit Behinderung und chronischer Erkrankung (KIS) and the Studierendenwerk Würzburg.
Housing, budget and student offers
The Studierendenwerk Würzburg guarantees accommodation for all the exchange students coming to Würzburg with partnership programs (deadline for the application: 15th January for the summer semester and 15th June for the winter semester, no guaranteed accommodation for freemovers). The offered rooms and apartments are affordable and close to campus. More information can be found here.
In Germany it’s common that many students live in shared flats (Wohngemeinschaft or WG), which are a great way to meet locals and experience daily life in Germany. WG offers can be found online (see for example: www.wg-gesucht.de/en).
There are no tuition fees at the University of Würzburg but a semester contribution of approximately 170 € each semester including a semester ticket (see public transport). With your student ID card you will profit of various discounts throughout the city, e.g. free tickets at the Mainfranken theatre and free IT-courses at the computer centre (Rechenzentrum). If you want to work during your studies (student jobs) please note that students from the EU are permitted to work up to 20 hours weekly during their studies whereas non-European students are allowed to work 120 days a year.
Würzburg has a reliable bus and tram network that students can use with their semester ticket. Just hop on with your validated student card. The ticket is included in the semester fee and covers unlimited travel within the city and surrounding areas. A popular upgrade of the semester ticket is the Deutschlandticket offered by the German Railway. It allows you to go on board of every regional train and bus in Germany (e.g. intercity train tickets are not included). More information can be found here.
Supermarkets, drugstores, and pharmacies are easy to find throughout Würzburg. Be aware that there are strict regulations regarding opening times in Bavaria (e.g. on Sundays and after 8 pm).
The university’s cafeterias (Mensa) and cafés offer warm meals, snacks, and drinks at low prices. They are a popular meeting spot and a good place to eat lunch between lectures. You will find several cafeterias and cafés throughout the city and can pay with your student card.
The university’s sports centre offers a wide range of affordable sports courses and fitness opportunities, from swimming and yoga to dance and climbing — a perfect way to stay active and meet other students.
Würzburg’s student community includes various choirs, orchestras, and theatre groups that welcome new members. Joining one is a fun way to get involved and share your talents. See e.g. Studi(o)Bühne Würzburg, English Drama Group, Academic orchestra, university choir or Monteverdichor.
Offers for international students
The Würzburg International Network (WIN) connects international and local students through events, excursions, and cultural activities. It’s a great way to make friends and settle into life in Würzburg. Everyone is warmly welcome at WIN!
The university’s language centre offers free language courses for different levels including German courses, helping you settle in and connect with locals: as an intensive course in March and September (students of partnership programs ONLY) or as regular course during the semester. If you would like to practice your foreign language skills and exchange cultural experiences with a native speaker, you should join the face2face language exchange.
Student councils represent your subject area, organize events, and can be your first point of contact for academic or social questions. Here you can find a list of the different councils.
Further information and institutions
The Studierendenwerk Würzburg is responsible for the social welfare of the students. Its personell kindly supports you with housing, counselling, and social services. They also offer advice on finances, jobs, and student life in general.
The International Office helps incoming students with all aspects of studying abroad – from application to arrival and orientation. They are your main contact for Erasmus+ and other exchange programmes.
