What is Student Services?

Today, Student Support Services is a not-for-profit, modern service organisation employing a staff of 600 of more than 30 different nationalities. Student Services was founded in 1922 as a self-help organisation for students, and in those days was primarily concerned with providing accommodation and food for students in need.

Is Student Services a part of the university?

No, Student Services is a separate organisation and since the 1970s it has been run within the legal structure of a public-law institution.

Why do I pay a social contribution?

Public social services for students must be financed. According to the Student Services legislation – Studentenwerksgesetz passed by the State government of North Rhine Westphalia, students are
required to contribute an amount towards financing the services provided by Student Services, which include subsidies by the State, turnover and rental income from Student Services accommodation.

Who decides the level of the social contribution?

The level of the social contribution is decided by the Administrative Council of Student Services, which  also includes students among its members. Currently those studying in Münster pay the lowest social contribution compared with statewide statistics. However, stagnating or falling levels of state assistance on the one hand, as well as increasing costs for energy, food and maintenance of accommodation present constant challenges for Student Services budgeting.

What is the social contribution used for?

The social contribution is used only to assist with the costs associated with the social services provided by Student Services. You can find a breakdown of how the social contribution is used here Verwendung des Sozialbeitrags.

Does Student Services negotiate the 'Semester ticket' (for rail/bus travel) ?

No, the conditions for using a discounted semester ticket are negotiated between the constitutional student body of the University of Münster, represented by AStA on the one hand, and the Münster City Works and German Rail on the other.

end faq