ErasmusWELCOMEGUIDE

2008/09

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Welcome by the rectors……………………………

About . . .University………………………………….. Formalities ………………………………Graz ……………………………………....Leisure Time ………………………………

Abbrevations……………………………………….Useful links ………………………………………Checklists………………………………………….Campus plans……………………………………..

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Table of contents

Dear students,

It is our pleasure to welcome you at the Medical University of Graz. Your decision of spending one semester or one year here in Graz will turn out to be a great enrichment for your future as well as for your personal life. In return, for our university it is one more step ahead towards internationality.

At the beginning of the year 2004, the former medical faculty of the dignified Karl-Franzens-University was turned by law, 140 years after its establishment, into an independent Medical University that has committed itself to sustainability by means of a university of health. This comprises the University and its infrastructure as well as our spectrum of studies and the research field of “Sustainable Health Research” as a focal point. Our programs of study are certified internationally and our students show excellent performance in comparison to other institutions.

Now, as a young and dynamic University, we would like to continue and reinforce this open-minded tradition towards other countries. The award of the ERASMUS University Charta is an important first step on this way. The “Bologna-Process” and the “European University area” are essential key-words in the process of the fusion of Europe, and the Medical University of Graz will be committed to contributing to the realization of these fundamental aims.

We would like to thank you in the name of the rectorate for your decision of studying at the Medical University of Graz, wishing you a successful and exciting stay in one of the most beautiful cities in Austria!

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Welcome by the rectors

Josef SmolleRektor

Gilbert ReibneggerVize-Rektor für Studium u.

Lehre

Welcome from theRectorate

The University

The University of Graz was founded in 1585 as one of the first universities in Central Europe. Since 1863, when the Medical Faculty was built up, the University contributes to the flourishing of the “academic-city” Graz. In 2004, the Medical University was outsourced from the Karl-Franzens-University and became an independent university that comprises 3 research centers, 23 clinics and institutes and 1.500 employees. At the moment about 5.300 students are registered at the Medical University of Graz.

Univ.-Prof. Dr. Gilbert Reibnegger, Vice-Rector for Teaching and Studies:

„Our highlights in the fields of teaching are the practical trainings at the LKH/University Clinical Center and the Hospitations at doctors or at medical institutions in the extramural field. These courses are real USPs; we only have them in Graz!

I hope that the great cooperation, that we have built up when developing the new curricula, will spread over all fields of the new Medical University and I hope that we will build up a successful future together, as an essential knot in the network of the upcoming European University Area.”

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Please register before you travel to Graz at https://online.meduni-graz.at/mug_online/studentenvoranmeldung.startseite from 15th - 31st August bzw from 15th – 31st January. Your address in Graz please write the address of the IPC. To finish the process, you pay the membership fee for student union’s fee (€ 15,86) using the payment form you obtain from International & Postgraduate Center (IPC). Please bring along a passport photo.

About 2 weeks after successful registration you can pick your students ID and semester sticker at the IPC. Place the sticker in your ID card. With the then valid Student Identity Card you can borrow material from all libraries, get reduced prize at Mensa (get seal at ÖH, Schubertstr. 6a/ get Legic Card for LKH Cafeteria), as well as discounts in museums, cinema, sports and events.

The international office will register you to the required courses according to your learning agreement. You will get your schedule at the Welcome Day. Registration to additional or special courses such as Medical English has to be done personally at the respective department (secretary) and with the help of MedOnline System (will only work if student union’s fee is paid).

All registered Students get a username and a pin code for their own computer account. You can activate your own e-mail address and get access to the students information servers.

Besides that, even without registration you can use computers and internet in the ZMF library for free.

Registration at the Medical University

Student Identity Card

Registration to courses

E-Mail and Internet

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The University

MedOnline• Information about all lessons, departements and offices• Study confirmation• Course Application• Exam Application• Exam Results including printing your certificates• Schedule for Students doing modules (personal calendar)

Access:https://online.meduni-graz.atBenutzername: OS+MatrikelnummerKennwort: enter PIN at first access then choose password of your own

Virtual Medical Campus (VMC)• Information about modules• Online – material/books• E-Learning

Access:http://vmc.meduni-graz.atSame data as for MedOnline

Email-Address for Students

Email-address: firstname.familyname@stud.meduni-graz.atAccess Mailbox:https://webmail.meduni-graz.atSame data as for MedOnlineIf you have problems please contact IT Service-Hotline 0316/380-4466.

You can print materials, certificates, etc at the computer labs in the ZMF as well as in the Vorklinik’s Foyer by using the Quick function of your cash card.You can charge this function in the ZMF and at the Vorklinik.

Students informationserver

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The University

The Medical University consists of 2 campus:

� general university campus with preclinical Departments & administration (Universitätsplatz, Harrachgasse, Mozartgasse, Göthestraße) � hospital area LKH (Auenbruggerplatz, Stiftingtalstraße, Billrothgasse).

They are easy to reach by bus No 41 from one another within few minutes (else 15 Min walk).

Library of the Medical University:http://www.meduni-graz.at/bmed/Opening hours: Mo-Fr 8am-8pm

� ZMF: Stiftingtalstraße 24, 8010 GrazPhone: (0316) 385 -73050, Fax -73059Study zone open 8:00 to 22:00 also on weekends� Each department offers also their own library (no lending)� Login Electronic library: Same data as for MedOnline

Most lessons and all exams are held in German language. To foster your integration the Medical University pays one German language course for you. Take the chance!

� 2 weeks intensive course (20 hours) in September� evening course during the semester (2-4 hours a week)

The international office will provide all information about available courses and enroll you to the required ones.

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Campus Overview

Library

Language of Instruction

The University

Please plan your journey to Graz to be able to participate in the Welcome Day usually held on the last Friday before the courses start.

1.October 2008 to 28. February 2009Beginning of the courses: 01.10.2008Ending of the courses: 31.01.2009Welcome Day: Tue 30. September, 10:00 am

Christmas Holidays: 22.12.2008 - 06.01.2009Term break: 01.02.2009-28.02.2009Immaculate Conception: 08.12.2008

1. March 2009 to 30. September 2009Beginning of the courses: 02.03.2009Ending of the courses: 03.07.2009Welcome Day: Fr 27.2.2009, 10:00 am

Easter Holidays:: 6.04.2009-19.04.2009Summer break: 04.07.2009-30.09.2009First May: 01.05.2009Assumption: 21.05.2009Rectors Day: 22.05.2009Whitsun: 29.05. 2009 to 02.06.2009Corpus Christi: 11.06.2009

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Academic year 08/09

Winter term 08/09

Holidays

Summer term 09

Holidays

The University

1 „Sehr Gut“ Very Good2 „Gut“ Good3 „Befriedigend“ Satisfactory4 „Genügend“ Sufficient5 „Nicht Genügend” Not sufficient, Fail

VO: Vorlesung – open lesson without presence duty. Exam at fixed dates. UE: Übung – training on models, bedside or laboratories. Limited number of participants, presence duty, current examination. SE: Seminar – students working out subjects on their own. Limited number of participants, presence duty, current examination. SU: Seminar & Übung – Combination of Seminar and UEVU: Vorlesung & Übung - Combination of lesson with practical training. Limited number of participants.PR: Praktikum – practical training under supervision. Limited number of participants, presence duty, current examination.Famulatur – clinical elective at the ward under supervision. No exam.

Modul – 5 weeks fulltime combination of various types of lessons upon one topic. Limited number of participants, presence duty, current examination. Additional written exam about total subject at the end of each module. SSM – Special study module (elective field of concentration)

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Grading system

Type of Lessons

The University

Your contact persons

Papst Petra , Mag.(FH) (Erasmus Incomings)Tel:0043.316.380.4036petra.papst@meduni-graz.at

Adler Silvia (Erasmus Institutional Coordinator)Tel: 0043.316.380.4030silvia.adler@meduni-graz.at

Mozartgasse 12 /2nd floor, room 2058010 GrazFax: 0043.316.380-9613Fax: 0043.316.380.69.4036E-Mail: international.office@meduni-graz.atWebsite: www.meduni-graz.at/international

Office hours:Mo, We, Thu, Fr: 9.00-12.00Tue: 12.00-15:00And after individual appointment

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The University

International Office

Mentor/BuddyA buddy will care for you whilst in Graz. Buddies are MUG students enrolled in the same curriculum as you. Your mentorwill contact you about 2-3 months prior to your arrival in Graz and will help you with all your questions and first steps in Graz. Please reply to this first contact email, even if you are notwanting this kind of support.

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Visa/Permit of Residence

Formalities

European Economic Area member states citizens

Citizens from the EU/EEA member states do not have to apply for a visa, but only a valid travel document (passport, personal identity card) for their entry and residence in Austria up to 3 months.

If you plan to stay longer than 3 months in Austria, you have to apply for a “Anmeldebescheinigung” in Graz within these first 3 months.

Contact:Amt der steiermärk. Landesregierung, Fachabteilung 7CWartingergasse 43, 8010 Graz Tel. (0316) 877-2084

You have to give prove of your financial measures by showing scholarship, bank account etc

Citizens of other countries

Staying in Austria for less than 6 months: You have to apply for a visa D+C for study purpose. Please contact the Austrian embassy in your country. Extension in Austria not possible!!

Staying in Austria for more than 6 months: You have to apply for a “Aufenthaltsbewilligung Studierender”. Please contact the Austrian embassy in your country. The “Aufenthaltsbewilligung”automatically contains a visa. Extension in Austria is possible.

Housing in Graz

Formalities

The Housing Service of the Austrian Academic Service (ÖAD) will search for an accommodation for you and will contact you with proposals if you have registered within the Erasmus Deadline at http://www.housing.oead.at/graz/graz_anmeldung.asp

Exchange students are either accommodated in students dorms, shared flats with other students, at guest families or in cheap single apartments. Most hostels offer internet access.

Rents range from EUR 160,- to EUR 400,- per month. A deposit of EUR 550,- has to be made at the ÖAD. When you move back home and no major damages caused you will get the money back (reduction for administration fees).

The usual rent duration is 1 semester (15th Sept – 15th Feb and 15th Feb –15th July). Rents always have to be paid for all month no matter when you move in or out.

As soon as you get the letter with the housing proposal by the ÖAD please contact the suggested landlord/student dorm at once telling whether you accept or deny the housing.

For the case you decide not to come to Graz after the application package was sent, please inform immediately the international office as well as

ÖAD – WohnraumverwaltungMag. Claudia ArnezSteyrergasse 3-5, 8010 GrazTel: ++43.316.318784 Fax: ++43.316.324759Email: claudia.arnez@oead.at

You find an overview over all available student dorms at www.housing.oead.at

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Graz is easy to reach by car, train and plane. Please note that a toll sticker is required for Austrian motorways and long term parking is hard to find within the city.

Please tell the international office your arrival date and time, so a buddy will pick you and help with the first steps.

Each exchange student has to register within three days after arrival in Austria at the magistrate of the city. In order to register you have to fill in a “Meldezettel” (registration form) and get the signature of the owner of your accommodation! The registration form can be downloaded at http://www.graz.at/cms/dokumente/10024916/e05a999a/Meldezettel.pdfTake your passport with you.

Take to: Servicecenter – Innere Stadt 8010, Amtshaus, Schmiedgasse 26 Tel.: ++43/316/872-2323 und -2381Fax: ++43/316/872-2329

When you leave Austria again you have to give notice of your departure to the magistrate!

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Arrival in Graz

Registration in Graz

Important -Deregistration!

Formalities

Copyright Graz Tourismus

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Health Insurance

Accident Insurance

Medical Indemnity Insurance

Students from EU/EEA-countries Who have health insurance coverage in their home country need to bring their health insurance e-card or in case they don’t have it yet, the E-111/E-128 form. You obtain from your insurance company in your home country. If you need a doctor take the card/form with you to the doctor (make copies of the form!). Costs for a prescription are €4,80 each, to be paid at the pharmacy.EU/EEA citizens without health insurance in your home country: See option 2 for non EU/EEA citizens.

Students from other countries have two options:

• You can enroll in an insurance plan from your home country. In this case, be sure to have health expense coverage up to € 30.000,- Check how you have to file a claim. In most cases you will have to pay in Austria and request reimbursement in your home country. So make sure your budget is flexible enough to cover any unforeseen health expenses.

• You can register for Austrian health insurance at: SteiermärkischeGebietskrankenkasse (GKK www.stgkk.at). Students get insurance (also including eye and dental coverage and medication) for € 23,50 per month. You will receive an e-card for € 10,-. It is valid as long as you pay the monthly fees. Take the e-card with you for any consultation. Costs for prescription are € 4,80 each, to be paid at the pharmacy.

With registration to an Austrian university you have automatically insurance coverage for accidents happening at the campus and in connection with your studies. Outings organised by ESN are not considered in connection with your studies! We recommend to enroll in a private emergency insurance plan for the case you get injured in your leisure time activities.

All accidents have to be reported immediately to Österreichischen Hochschülerschaft, ZMF, Stiftingtalstr. 24, 8036 Graz!

Formalities

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Which doctor?

Immunization requirement

Emergency Calls

If you need some medical advice, you may choose between a general physician or a specialist with a contract “aller Kassen”. by making your own appointment. You may also go to the university hospital clinic at the “Landeskrankenhaus” (LKH Auenbruggerplatz) or to the “Steiermärkische Gebietskrankenkasse” (GKK), Josef-Pongratz-Platz 1 (bus Nr. 30) Tel: 0316 / 80 35-0 Mo - Th 07.00 - 14.30 Fr 07.00 - 14.00 www.stgkk.at service@stgkk.sozvers.at

To be allowed working in the clinics you should have hepatitis A+Bimmunization as well as a negative Mentel-Mantoux-Test (MMT) no older than 3 months and show proof of upon request. This test is offered by Fachabteilung 8B des Landes Steiermark, Paulustorgasse 4, 8010 Graz, Tel 0316/877-3535 for € 9,-.

If you stay in Austria during summer semester are strongly advised to get a tick immunisation. Tick bites may cause encephalitis. For effective protection you need two shots: the first one around March and a booster 3-4 weeks later. You can get it at the Department of Hygiene of MUG, at GKK or Impfstelle des Landes, Paulustorgasse 4/II for €22,50.

Ambulance 144Fire brigade 122Police 133Doctor’s emergency service 141(in the evening and on week-ends )Cash Card emergency call 0800 204 88 00(if you’ve lost your cash card)

Formalities

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Financial Affairs

Cost of living

The following coins and banknotes are available in Euro:

Coins: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 Cent, 1 Euro, 2 Euro; Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 Euro.

You can exchange cash at any Austrian bank (“Bank” or “Sparkasse”) without special identification. To cash travelers or EURO Check an extra fee is charged. Most banks are open Monday-Friday, mornings and afternoons but they close for lunch break.

The EC-/Maestro card (EU/EEA countries) allows you to withdraw moneyfrom your home or Austrian bank account at the cash machine “Bankomat”.Credit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are accepted at most major stores but not in supermarkets. Most shops however offer payment by “Bankomat”-Card.

The costs of your stay in Graz will mainly depend upon the type of housing (student dorm or private accommodation) and your lifestyle (go out eating or cook yourself). To play safe, you should calculate at least € 700,- per month, including accommodation, groceries and personal expenses.

Don’t forget to bring some money for traveling! Due to its central position Graz is the ideal starting point for trips within Austria and abroad.

Formalities

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Waste separation

Changes in your address

Austrians attach great value to waste separation! We have dust bins with different covers:

Dust bin with red cover: paper wasteDust bin with yellow cover: plastic and packagingDust bin with green or white cover: glass (colored– und white glass separated!)Brown dust bin: organic wasteBlack dust bin: all the rest

Important! Please inform us about all changes in your address (also changes in your e-mail address!!) via e-mail to petra.papst@meduni-graz.atto not miss important information.

Please give us also your (Austrian) phone number after arrival.

Formalities

Graz, the second biggest city of Austria and capital of Styria is a successful synthesis of the Old and the New. Narrow alleys and romantic courtyards: Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque come together in Graz. On the contrary, Graz is also a scene of modern architecture. The emblem of Graz, the “Schlossberg” with its clock-tower and the glass-lift that leads up to the hill, proudly presents itself in the middle of the city. Not only the “Schlossberg”, but also the “Kunsthaus”, a spectacular construction that is also called “friendly alien” and the artificial island in the river, attract the attention of all visitors. You really have to experience Graz and all its attractions! Pick up some tourist information in the tourist office and explore Graz!

Get tourism information at:Graztourismus, Herrengasse 16, 8010 Grazwww.graztourism.at

The climate of Graz is continental. That means we have cold winters(-15) and hot summers (up to 35°). In winter, we normally get some snow, but it often soon melts away. Don’t worry: Houses and dorms are well insulated and have a central heating, so that at least indoor the temperature is always comfortable. You can find the current weather forecast on www.wetter.at

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A city that plays all roles

The climate of Graz

Graz

Copyright Graz Tourismus - Schiffer

Copyright Graz Tourismus - Wiesenhofer

The public transport network in Graz has been expanded in the past few years. The ticket- and information center of the “GVB” (Grazer Verkehrsbetriebe) is located in the round building in the center of Jakominiplatz. You can buy tickets in any tabacco shop (Trafik).• 1-hour ticket € 1,80 (at driver)• 24hours ticket € 3,80 – at driver• “10-er Block” (ten tickets) € 15,70• ticket for a whole week € 10• whole month € 34Attention: If caught without valid ticket you are charged the ticket prize + €60,-Online timetable: www.gvb.atBus rides to Graz’ environment: www.verbundlinie.at

Graz is ideally located to reach other cities in Austria and central Europe by train. It takes you, for example, 2,5 hours to go to Vienna by train and 4 hours to Salzburg. If you are under 26 years old you can buy the “Vorteilscard <26”allowing to get up to 50% reduction of all your tickets for journeys within Austria. You can get the railway pass at the main train station “Hauptbahnhof”by filling in a form and presenting your student ID and a picture. The pass costs € 19,90 and is valid for one year. Information: www.oebb.at

There is a shuttle bus (€1,70) from the Airport Graz Thalerhof to the main railway station. Cheap flights are offered by www.statravel.at or www.restplatzboerse.at.

The most popular way of transportation in Graz is the bike. You can rent bikes at the railway station and at rentabike@gmx.at but if you stay longer it is cheaper to buy one. Cheap ones are available at rentabike@gmx.at, Caritas and Dorotheum. Attention – don’t drink and drive: High fines if caught by police even on bike!

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Public Transport

Bus and tram

Train

Airplane

Bike

Graz

Spanish, Indian, or Styrian? Graz presents itself very versatile as far as food is concerned. You can get a typical Styrian “Backhendlsalat” as well as Mexican “Burritos”! Graz will satisfy the heart of every gourmet!

Cafeterias/Mensa/recommendable student restaurants:• Cafeteria LKH - opposite Gynecology ward, Legic cards available withInskriptionsbestätigung at Mr. Reinegger• Cafeteria Vorklinik – Harrachgasse 21• „Mensa“ Sonnenfelsplatz 1 (university roundabout); www.mensen.at• Mensa der Katholischen Hochschulgemeinde, Leechgasse 24 www.khg-graz.at• Afro-asiatisches Buffet, Leechgasse 22 www.cafeglobal.at• Cafe Zeppelin, Heinrichstrasse 15, cheap good and huge pizzas and toasts!• Posaune, Sonnenfelsplatz, cheap good and huge pizzas and toasts!• Propeller, Zinsendorfgasse 17, all you can eat http://www.propeller.co.at/• Drei goldene Kugeln: LKH; Heinrichstr. 18, Citypark and Bahnhofgürtel –Schnitzel & Co. Big, good, cheap!Lunch including a drink is available at a prize from € 3,50 – € 7,-

Styrian cuisine:• Altsteirische Schmankerlstube: Sackstraße 10

www.schmankerlstube.at• Bierbaron: Heinrichstraße 56, 40 different beers, Austrian cuisine www.bierbaron-graz.at

There is an overview of all restaurants, cafés, bars etc. at www.graztourism.at>restaurants&bars

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Eating out in Graz

Mensa

Styrian cuisine

Graz

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Accommodation

Opening hours

If your friends want to visit you in Graz, they will for sure find an adequate accommodation! For low-budget traveler, there is a youth hostel in the Idlhofgasse 74 (www.jfgh.at). You can find an overview of all hotels and guesthouses at www.graztourism.at. For staying in your dormitory you have to have permission from ÖAD.

Most shops are open from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. On Sunday shops are closed with the exception of some Turkish/Oriental shops, petrol stations and the following shops: • SPAR, at the central train station, open daily 6.00 am until 9.00 p.m.• HASIBA, Grabenstraße 1, open Mo-Sa until 9.00 p.m. • LAUFKE, Elisabethstraße 6, open daily until 11 p.m. • GRAZER ECK, Mariahilferstraße 24, Mo-Fr open until midnight• GOURMET TREFF, Plüddemanngasse 77, open Mo-Fr from 6.00-11.00 p.m.; Sa from 1.00-11.00 p.m. and on Su from 10.00 a.m. to 11.00 p.m.• WEINGRILL, Rechbauerstraße 25, open Mo-So until 8.00 p.m.

Attention: increased prices!

Graz

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Shopping The biggest and without doubt most beautiful shopping street is in the ”Herrengasse” in the heart of Graz. Beside the Herrengasse there are also other shopping streets and shopping centers in and around Graz.

In Graz:• CITYPARK, shopping center: Lazarettgürtel 55, 8020 GrazBus Nr. 35 from Jakominiplatz (open til. 19:30)• STEIRERHOF shopping center, Jakominiplatz• ANNENPASSAGE shopping center, main railway station/Europaplat• STYRIA CENTER shopping center, Corner Volksgartenstraße & Annenstraße, 8020 Graz • MURPARK Liebenau, Straßenbahn Nr 4 Endstation• SHOPPING NORD, WienerstrasseBus Nr. 52 vom Hauptbahnhof• KASTNER & ÖHLER, Sackstraße 7-13 (next to the Hauptplatz) a huge, traditional department store in the city center. Prices are averaged up to high (branded articles). • DM, SCHLECKER, BIPA, low price cosmetics and sanitary products • LIBRO, PAGRO office equipment, books, CDs • HOFER, LIDL, PLUS, PENNY cheap groceries and weekly special offers (clothes, dishes, electrical equipment, …)• KIK: cheap clothes and household equipment• Saturn, Mediamarkt: electrical equipment, CDs, DVDs• At the "Bauernmärkte“ (Farmer market places) you can buy healthy and delicious food directly from the farmers. Most farmer market places are open every day until noon. The two largest ones are the Kaiser-Joseph-Platz (opposite the Opera house) and the one on Lendplatz.

Graz

Copyright Graz Tourismus – Wiesenhofer

Copyright Graz Tourismus – Wiesenhofer

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Shopping

Telephone

Phone code

In the surrounding of Graz:• SHOPPING CENTER WEST and IKEA: Weblingergürtel 25, 8054 Graz. Take the tram nr. 5 until the terminal stop (Brauhaus Puntigam). Then take bus nr. 64 to the Shopping Center West. • SHOPPING CENTER SEIERSBERG: Take the tram nr. 5 until the terminal stop (Brauhaus Puntigam). Then the bus nr. 78 will take you to the Shoppingcenter Seiersberg

Austria has one of the highest mobile phone per capita rates in the world. Thus in many apartments there are no conventional telephone networks. If there is a phone in your apartment, ask your flat mates about the prices and cheapest time. It is often cheaper and above all more convenient to buy a mobile phone. The ESN section offers free SIM-cards of teleringphone company (0650). So please bring along your mobile!You can also call from post offices or telephone boxes with phone cards (Telefonwertkarten) or coins. Public recall phones are signed with an “R”.The best option for international calls is with prepaid calling cards (with a number code) which you can use from conventional phones, mobile phones and phone booths. They are available at every AON shops.

The phone code for Graz within Austria is 0316, calling from abroad you have to dial ++43 for Austria and then 316.

Graz

Post offices are open from Monday to Friday from 8 a.m.-12 a.m. and from 2 p.m.-6 p.m. for letters, parcels, faxes and EMS services. On Saturday and Sunday they are closed and there is no mail delivery.

Exception: post office at the main railway station Graz Mo-Fr from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m.

The vast majority of Austrians belong to the Roman-Catholic Congregation. An overview of all registered congregations and their centers can be found at www.kirche.at

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Post offices

Religion

Graz

The USI (University Sport Institute) offers different sport courses at a low price. You can find all courses at www.uni-graz.at/usiwww . Please register personally at the beginning of each semester from 7.00 to 12.00 at the USI secretary, Universitätsplatz 3, on the ground floor with confirmation of inscription at MUG. You should not miss the „Kleeblattlauf“ (a relay) organized by the USI each year at the end of June. After the relay there is a big student partyin the sport center USZ on the “Rosenhain”.

Winter sport camps are organized by the USI offering ski and snowboard courses for beginners and for advanced skiers/snowboarders.

In Graz you can do a variety of sports the whole year through: cycling or roller skating along the river Mur, tennis, track&field, ball games, aerobics, swimming, ice-skating etc. If you want to ski in winter, you can borrow equipment from the department store “Kastner & Öhler” (Gigasport) in the city center. They also organize skiing trips winter sports ressorts. www.gigasport.at

Each semester the mayor of Graz invites all exchange students to a reception in the town hall of Graz with buffet! Take the chance to talk with officials of the city, see the city hall from inside, meet students of all Graz universities! You will be informed in advance about the date and time.

Please check regularly www.meduni-graz.at/international_office/sokrates_incomings/newsfor Erasmus – Events.

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Sports

Welcome reception by the mayor

Erasmus News Website

Leisure time

The „International Exchange and Erasmus Student Network“ ESN and your buddies will help with all questions concerning life as an Erasmus student in Graz. ESN organizes regular tables (“Stammtische”), guided tours and excursions.

Referat für Internationales, ÖH Graz, Schubertstraße 6a, 8010 GrazTelefon: +43 / (0) 316 / 380 2963 (only during office hours)Fax: +43 / (0) 316 / 380 9200esngraz@yahoo.com http://oehuni.uni-graz.at/international/

Graz and its surrounding provide a lot of events, concerts, street festivals etc such as free jazz concerts every week in July and August www.jazzsommer.at or the Christmas markets in December.

Have a look at events to come at www.kulturserver-graz.at, www.graztourismus.at ; www.graz.at

Concerts in Austria: www.dieeintrittskarte.at www.oeticket.com

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Erasmus Meeting Point

Events/Concerts/Street festivals

Leisure time

Copyright Graz Tourismus – Wiesenhofer

• Cineplexx: Alte Poststraße 470 Tel: (0316) 2909www.cineplexx.at• UCI Kinowelt Annenhof: Annenstraße 29 Tel: (0316) 72 77 www.uci-kinowelt.at• Schubertkino: Mehlplatz 2 Tel: (0316) 82 90 81 -0 www.schubertkino.com• Geidorf Kunstkino: Geidorfplatz 1 Tel: (0316) 32 10 03 • Royal English Cinema: Conrad-v.-Hötzendorf-Str. 10 Tel: (0316) 82 61 33 • Rechbauerkino: Rechbauerstraße 6 Tel: (0316) 83 05 08• KIZ Kino im Augarten: Friedrichstraße 24 Tel: (0316) 82 11 86 – lowprize actions for freshmen and exchange students!

Graz offers quite a cultural scene. You find the current programs at:

• Opera http://theater-graz.kraftzone.com/oper/• Theatre http://theater-graz.kraftzone.com/schauspielhaus/• Orpheum – concerts, small arts http://www.orpheumgraz.com• Small comedy - http://www.kleinekomoedie-graz.at/

An overview of all stage productions you find at http://cms.graztourismus.at/cms/ziel/55838/DE/

In Graz you find variety of museums, cultural centers and exhibitions worth seeing. • Zeughaus, Herrengasse 16 – Europe’s biggest collection of medieval armoury• Landesmuseum Joanneum www.museum-joanneum.steiermark.at

Overview of all museums you find at http://cms.graztourismus.at/cms/ziel/47303/DE/

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Cinemas

Theatre and Opera

Museums

Leisure time

Copyright Graz Tourismus – Wiesenhofer

Graz is a city that wakes up at night! Graz is a student-city that knows how to have an all-night party! There are a great number of different pubs in the university district:

• Café Bar Orange: In the past this bar has developed to the favorite meeting point of students – the reason for it is obvious: At Bar Orange you get a delicious breakfast until 4 p.m. and in the evening they offer cocktails and cool, house-chill-out music. (admission).• Merano: On the corner of the “ Elisabethstraße/Merangasse“ there is a bar that offers every day another „special“: On Thursday karaoke and on week-end party music! www.merano.at• Three Monkeys: The Monkeys-Lounge on the ground floor is a bar to start the evening, whereas the basement vault has developed to the party zone after 1 o’clock at night. (admission after 23.00) • Kulturhauskeller: The oldest of all student bars still attracts party people with its tasty and cheap pizzas (Happy Hour from 22.00 to 0.30) (a lot of people only go there because of the pizza!) and drinks happy hours (from 22.00 to 23.30). Dancing bar after 1 o’clock. (admission)• Propeller: Zinzendorfgasse 17, restaurant during the day, at night popular student meeting point, location of regular round tables, cocktail happy hour!• Postgarage: Dreihackengasse 42 (near Griesplatz) offers different music events – check the programme at www.postgarage.at• Generalmusikdirektion: Club at Grieskai 47 with different events www.generalmusicdirektion.at• Parkhaus: Café in the middle of the Stadtpark with open air live music• Dom im Berg: Location for Clubbings and concerts – attention high entrance fees!

Beside, every week there are students parties and hostel parties and a vivid night life in the bars and pubs of the city centre (“Bermuda Triangle”).

In Graz you can always have a party – you can find the best event tips at http://www.grazer.at

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Nightlife

Leisure time

Copyright Graz Tourismus – Schiffer

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Trips around Graz

Not only Graz itself, but the whole region – the „Steiermark“- offers a rich diversity of attractive sights. The Lipizzaner stud farm Piber and the Hunderwasser church in western Styria,the castle road in eastern Styria, the impressive “Lurgrotte” (cave) in Semriach, the open-air museum Stübing or the “Schöckl”, the 1.500 meters high mountain in the north of Graz, with its summer toboggan run, are popular destinations. www.piber.com; www.lurgrotte.com; www.freilichtmuseum.at

In the countryside you will find an outstanding hilly landscape with vinyards and its „Buschenschänken“, the typical Styrian taverns offering cold home-made dishes and wine. Especially in autumn you should not miss to try “Sturm and chestnuts” on one of Styria’s wine roads. www.styrianwine.com; www.steiermark.com

Longing for some chill out? Then spend one day in one of the extremely relaxing spas in Waltersdorf, Loipersdorf, Radkersburg, Blumau oder derTherme Nova in Köflach. www.therme.at

Information about organised outings: Graz TourismHerrengasse 16, 8010 Grazwww.graztourism.at and www.gigasport.com > Events

Leisure time

Copyright Graz Tourismus – Wiesenhofer

Copyright Graz Tourismus – Wiesenhofer

The popular newspapers in Austria are "Kronenzeitung" and the "KleineZeitung". "Der Standard" and "Die Presse" are quality papers that are very popular among students. At the beginning of each semester free abonnements are available.

You can get international newspapers and magazines at some tobacconists (Trafik) and at the bookstores "Dradiwaberl" (Zinzendorfgassse 30) und "Kienreich" (Sackstraße 6)

There are two Austrian public law channels, ORF 1 and ORF 2, and two private television channels: ATV and Puls4. Many appartments offer cable/satellite TV.

For young people the following radio stations are of interest: • Ö3 (public law radio, Charts): 89,2 Mhz• KRONEHIT (private radio, Hits und 80ies): 107,5 Mhz• Antenne Steiermark (private radio, Charts & Oldies): 99,1 Mhz• Ö1 (public law radio, News – and cultural channel): 91,2 Mhz• FM4 (Alternative): 101,7 Mhz

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Media

Newspapers

TV

Radio

Leisure time

ESN European Students Network, Schubertstraße 6aKF UG Karl Franzens University GrazLKH Landeskrankenhaus, AuenbruggerplatzMUG Medizinische Universität GrazÖAD Österreichischer Austauschdienst, Heinrichstraße 37/1ÖH Österreichische Hochschülerschaft, ZMF,

Stiftingtalstr. SS SommersemesterSTPA Studien- und Prüfungsabteilung, Mozartgasse 12Vorklinik Vorklinische Institute, Harrachgasse 21VR VizerektorWS WintersemesterZID Zentraler Informatikdienst, Universitätsstraße 15/G

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Abbreviations

Abbrevations

www.meduni-graz.at

www.meduni-graz.at/international_office

www.uni-graz.ac.at/allgemein/lage.html

www.oead.at

www.uni-graz.at/usiwww

http://oehuni.uni-graz.at/~international

www.graz.at

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Medical University of Graz

International and Postgraduate Center

Campus map on the Internet

“Österreichischer Austauschdienst” – Austrian Academic Exchange Service

University Sports Institute

Erasmus Students Network – Office Graz

Information and Services about Graz

Useful links

www.graztourism.at

www.steiermark.com

www.gvb.at

www.oebb.at

www.stgkk.at

www.grazer.at

www. Wetter.at

www.theater-graz.com

www.statravel.at

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Excursions, accommodation and restaurants in and around Graz

Excursions and information about Styria

Timetables of the “Grazer Verkehrsbetriebe” (bus and tram)

Timetables of the “Österreichischen Bundesbahnen” (train)

Steirische Gebietskrankenkasse (GKK) – health insurance company

Information and pictures about Nightlife in Graz/ Event-guide!

Weather in Austria

The opera and other theaters in Graz

Cheap flights and excursions for young people

Useful links

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Checklist

What to bring along? • Passport

• Proof of Immunization

• Mendel-Mantoux-Test

• 4 Passport photos for various purposes

• International Student Identity card (ISIC)

• cash card with cirrus and/or EC function to withdraw money from the bank account in your home country

• Current is 220 Voltage with 2 contacts – dont forget adapter

• bed clothing and towels

• warm clothing and water proof shoes

• your mobile phone when working with any SIM card