Prepare for University: Real Tips from Students for Students

Why Preparing for University Matters More Than You Think

Starting university feels like a second “first day of school” – but with more freedom and more responsibility. To help you get ready and start your first semester stress-free, we asked students at the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt to share their best tips.

Prepare for University: Which Checklist Really Helps?

Ready to begin your studies? Before diving into the adventure, take care of these essentials:

1. Check your welcome email – Before the semester begins, you’ll receive your login details for internal systems. Make sure you’ve got access.
2. Pick up your campus card – You’ll receive your student ID card at the start of your studies – you’ll need it for parking, the library and printers.
3. Join the campus & library tour – Take part in the official introduction to get to know key services, important rooms and the library.
4. Apply for your semester ticket – Do it early to avoid long waits or extra costs. In Lower Austria, students use the VOR monthly pass – keep your student ID ready. 🔗VOR student pass
5. Check study grants & scholarships – Make a note of deadlines and prepare your documents. 🔗Study Grant Authority | 🔗Scholarship database
6. Test your e-learning platforms – Log into 🔗Moodle and 🔗CIS early. Check your daily timetable, review initial course materials and get comfortable with the tools.
7. Save key contacts – Note down the details of your Head of Programme, 🔗Study Services, 🔗IT Support and 🔗Library – they’ll come in handy.

With this university preparation checklist, you're ready to go – now it’s time for insider tips that really make a difference. 😉

First-Year Study Tips: How to Stay Organised

In your first semester, deadlines can sneak up faster than you think. The key? Structure from the start. Here’s how:

• Set fixed study times – Treat them like appointments – consistent time blocks help you stay focused and avoid cramming.
• Use digital tools – Try note-taking apps like GoodNotes or OneNote, and keep things organised with tools like Notion, Trello or classic calendar apps. Explore what works best for you.
• Add deadlines straight to your calendar – As soon as you get a due date, enter it – and set two reminders (e.g. 1 week and 1 day before). That way, you’ll avoid last-minute stress. 🤓

💡 Lateral entry students: Use your professional experience in organisation and time management to your advantage – it’s a real plus.

Campus Hacks: Tips That Make Student Life Easier

Life on campus isn’t just lectures and deadlines – it’s the little tricks that make your daily routine smoother. Here’s what to look out for:

• Food on campus – Find out early what food options are available at your campus (e.g. cafeteria, student canteen or nearby places) – and how payment works.
• Best study spots – Explore the library, quiet areas or shared spaces with flatmates – find what works for your study flow.
• Find the printing sweet spot – Ask other students where the “secret printer” is – there’s usually one that’s always free and never out of paper. 😉
• Coffee hacks – Students always know the best coffee spots – just ask around!

Making Connections: How to Find Your People at University

Meeting new people is often easier than you think – especially in your first semester. Here’s how:

• Start a conversation – Your future best friend or study buddy might already be sitting next to you.
• Join study groups & FHWN events – They’re a great way to connect – both academically and socially.
• Try something new – Take a language course, join a sports group or get involved in student projects.

💡 Lateral entry students: Even if you’re working alongside your studies – networking is always worth it.

How to Start University the Right Way

Preparing for your studies doesn’t mean having everything perfectly planned – it’s about getting the basics right and staying open to new experiences. With the tips in this article, you’re all set for a confident and successful start. Go for it! ✨