First-time graduates at TU Dortmund
TU Dortmund University is committed to educational equality. This page is aimed at all those who are the first in their family to study – or are thinking about it.
Anyone who comes from a family with no university experience is considered a first-time graduate. This often raises questions of its own:
- Is a degree program even right for me?
- How do I find the right one – and how does it all work?
- What if I can't ask anyone?
These are understandable questions—and many people ask them. About half of the students at TU Dortmund come from non-academic families. So you’re not alone.
Contact the Central Student Advisory Service for guidance!
Support for first-time graduates on the topic of...
Study orientation
Starting a degree program is a big decision – especially if there are no or hardly any role models in your own environment. Take advantage of the TU Dortmund University's orientation offers to get to know degree courses, get a taste of university life and ask questions.
- Overview - From study orientation to application/enrollment: studienwahl@home
- Contacts for course-specific questions: Student Advisory Service
Starting your studies
Starting university brings many changes with it – new processes, new terms, new surroundings. It is a real achievement to master these structures yourself. That's why there are offers to help you settle in and find your feet.
- Everything to do with preparation, timetabling, getting to know each other etc. in the respective degree program/subject: Introductory events (preliminary courses, O-week)
- Comprehensive information for a good start to your studies: Right from the start (lecture series)
- Refreshing school skills in an individualized way and parallel to your studies: beVinuS
Student financing
Studying has to be affordable – even without financial reserves from your parents. At TU Dortmund University, you will find support for questions about BAföG, scholarships, jobs and other ways to secure your studies.
- Information and open consultation hours on the subject of scholarships: Scholarship advice
- Funding opportunities for high-achieving and talented students: Deutschlandstipendium
- Information and advice on BAföG: Studierendenwerk Dortmund
Promotion
Do you enjoy academic work and want to delve deeper? Then perhaps a doctorate is an option – even without an academic family history. TU Dortmund University offers advice and support to help you get to know and plan this path.
- Information and advice for those interested in a doctorate: Graduate Center of TU Dortmund University
Did you know? Only 1 in 100 children of non-academics complete a doctorate - compared to 10 in 100 children of academics(Hochschul-Bildungs-Report 2020).
What you bring with you - and perhaps don't even know:
Being the first in the family to study often requires courage, organizational talent and a clear view. Many first-time graduates already have skills that are particularly helpful during their studies:
- Independence
- Stamina
- A sense of responsibility
- Social sensitivity
- Creative problem solving
In short: you have already achieved a lot. And you can build on it.
The Central Student Advisory Service will be happy to advise you!