Our counselling services at a glance

We understand that student life is not always easy and can bring many challenges. That's why we offer comprehensive support in various areas of life.

Everyday issues and support
Whether it's organising your daily study routine, time management or other practical issues - we help you keep track of things and find solutions.

Crises & special life situations
We are at your side in difficult times. Our experienced counsellors will support you in overcoming personal crises and unusual situations.

Financing options other than BAföG

  • BAföG and alternative funding options
    We will check together whether you are eligible for BAföG and also show you alternatives if you are not eligible.
  • Scholarships and funds
    We show you scholarship opportunities and special funds that can support you financially during your studies.
  • Emergency aid and loans
    In acute financial emergencies, we provide information about emergency aid and loan options.
  • Student jobs
    We will discuss together which part-time job could be a suitable option for you.


Social benefits and financial aid

  • Maintenance and parental allowance
    Information and advice on maintenance claims and parental allowance for student parents.
  • Housing benefit
    We clarify whether you are entitled to housing benefit and provide support with the application process.
  • Citizen's allowance and other social benefits
    We provide advice on whether you are entitled to state support such as citizen's allowance.

Our counselling is confidential, free of charge and open to all students. We look forward to supporting you and helping you to succeed in your studies!

Your contact person

  • Esther Ernst

    Social Work M.A.
    Social Counselor

    © StwDo

FAQ: Frequently asked questions

Do I have to register for counselling?

For individual advice, visit us at our premises on campus or make an appointment by email or by phone at 0231-20649-185.Consultations can be arranged and held every Wednesday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

What concerns can I turn to social counselling with?

We advise you when things aren't going so well.For example, if you are in a financial emergency or if you are in a socially difficult situation.Maybe you have a problem with a roommate, you don't know what to do when it comes to submitting applications or dealing with authorities.Then we are there to help you and try to tackle the problem together with you so that you can concentrate on your studies again.

How does the counselling work?

During the consultation, we will first clarify your concerns and where you would like help or support.Ideally, you will bring the necessary documents or papers with you. We will then discuss the next steps together and check whether you are entitled to certain assistance offers from the student union or possible third parties, for example.

Where does the counselling take place?

Individual counselling takes place in person at our premises in Dortmund.The counselling offices are located in the Studierendenwerk refectory building, Vogelpothsweg 85 in 44227 Dortmund, on level 0, the parking level.The counseling center is wheelchair accessible.There are sufficient parking spaces, bus stops, S-Bahn and H-Bahn stations nearby.

Who can take advantage of the counselling?

The social counselling service can be used by students of the TU Dortmund, FH Dortmund, FH Südwestfalen, FernUniversität Hagen and the Folkwang University (Dortmund location).

What does the counselling cost?

The social counselling service can be used by students of the TU Dortmund, FH Dortmund, FH Südwestfalen, FernUniversität Hagen and the Folkwang University (Dortmund location).

Assistance offered by the universities

In addition to the Studierendenwerk, the universities also offer free counselling for their students:

TU Dortmund

Psychological Student Counselling
Emil-Figge-Str. 61, 44227 Dortmund

AStA, Systemic Counselling
Emil-Figge-Str. 50, 44227 Dortmund

DoBuS
(Department of Disability and Studies, Centre for Higher Education)
Emil-Figge-Str. 60, 44227 Dortmund

Dortmund University of Applied Sciences

Psychological Student Counselling
Emil-Figge-Str. 38b, 44227 Dortmund

FH South Westphalia

Student Coaching
Hagen Telephone: 02331-9330-6202
Iserlohn Telephone: 02371-566-1277
Meschede Telephone: 0291-9910-4130
Soest Telephone: 02921-378-3339

Information on data protection

At the beginning of the consultation, we will ask you for your consent to the processing of your personal data and will be happy to explain any related questions. Further information on data protection