Starting your studies: Advice and guidance on making your first semester a success

Your first steps at Saarland University

Starting university is an exciting new chapter—and we're here to help you get off to a smooth start. The Central Student Advisory Service has created a helpful overview page packed with key dates, tips on planning your timetable, info on preparatory courses, and details about orientation events. A handy checklist is also available to guide you step by step and ensure you haven't missed anything.

Starting your studies

Mentoring programme

Our mentoring programme connects new students with experienced student mentors who offer practical advice and support. Your mentor will be your go-to person for guidance, encouragement and insider tips. They'll help you to settle in and navigate campus life, and they'll answer any questions you may have about your studies or university life.

Mentoring programme

Welcome events, orientation sessions

The academic departments all offer welcome events (also known as orientation or induction sessions) that are designed to help first-semester students ease into university life. These sessions are a great opportunity to ask questions, meet fellow students, and get to know your lecturers as well as the members of your departmental student organization.

Orientation events for undergraduate students

Orientation events for Master's students

International students

The Center for International Students (ZiS), part of Saarland University's Welcome Center, helps newly arrived students from around the world to settle in smoothly to life on campus. Numerous ZiS social activities and the buddy programme make it easy to connect with others and feel at home quickly.

Center for International Students

Onboarding for first-year students: Digital learning platforms

At the start of the semester, first-year students are invited to an information event that introduces them to the university's key digital platforms and tools—like MS Teams, Moodle and LSF—as well as useful AI tools and other digital resources. The session is offered in multiple languages and can be joined online (no registration required) or in person (registration required).

Further information

Contact

Central Student Advisory Service

Saarbrücken Campus
Building A4 4, Ground floor
Phone: +49 681 302-3513
studienberatung(at)uni-saarland.de

Central Student Advisory Service