The O-Woche schedule varies depending on the degree program – from introductory rounds with lecturers to campus tours to evening barbecues. In addition to the fun factor, you will also receive practical information such as how to set up your course schedule or what the exam regulations are.
Orientation week is usually organized by the Academic Advisory Offices and the student representatives (StugA) within the individual faculties. A StugA is often referred to as a “Fachschaft” at other German universities. While the Academic Advisory Offices are staffed by university employees who can help you with formalities regarding your degree, your StugA consists of students from your field of study. They advocate for students’ interests, are your first point of contact for questions regarding student life, and help you find your footing during orientation week.

The Uni-Start portal provides guidance even before the semester begins. Learn how to activate your university account, set up campus Wi-Fi, or create your course schedule. You can also find your degree program’s orientation week schedule in the Uni-Start portal.

Alva-Elisa Matthies is studying Information Systems and Management in the second semester and is involved in the StugA of Faculty 03: Mathematics / Computer Science at the University of Bremen.

What do you like about working in StugA, Alva?

I like how we are in contact for several semesters. I joined because I wanted to help others and get involved in the faculty. Being active in StugA can be enriching and fun, though sometimes exhausting, but above all very valuable! I enjoy working with others in my field and helping to bring variety to student life. It’s fun to see how our ideas develop into concrete plans and become events and meetings. It is particularly nice to see that students look forward to game nights and other activities we organize.

Why is it worthwhile to participate in orientation week as a first-semester student?

Orientation week is intended to help you ease into your degree. It gives new students the opportunity to orient themselves and have nice conversations. First-semester students should know that they are not alone in beginning or changing their degree. Orientation week is a place for questions, for getting a first impression, and settling into a new location.

What is in store for computer science students during orientation week?

For beginning students in Computer Science, Information Systems and Management, and Digital Media, we have planned specialized courses such as tutorials in programming, an introduction to university digital platforms, and support in setting up a course schedule. In addition, there are also opportunities for getting to know other students at a breakfast with the mathematics and computer science students, as well as at a campus rally. I know that other faculties have planned city rallies or pub crawls. I am curious how it will be overall this year, as this is the first orientation week I have helped plan as part of StugA.

Full Schedule in the Uni-Start Portal

The Uni-Start portal lists the program highlights of each faculty and teacher education subject, as well as helpful tips for preparing to begin a degree.

Information Sessions for all First-Semester Students

The Uni-Start portal also lists the various services on campus that are offered for first-semester students of all degrees during orientation week. For example, there are events to inform you of available options for financing your degree, how you can study abroad, and what assistance the university offers if you have a disability. On October 9, 2025 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., you can also get to know all the service facilities of the University of Bremen at the Info-Börse (information fair) in GW2 Building.