The Johannes Kepler University Linz has introduced a number of initiatives to help Ukrainian students, researchers and scholars.
Since the fall of 2015, the JKU has been actively involved in uniko's MORE initiative, helping those from a refugee background pursue an academic future and experience new perspectives in Austria.
The MORE Program at the JKU accepts 49 students annually. Half of the students accepted into the program receive the Borealis MORE scholarship. The program is an opportunity for these students from a refugee background to either complete a pre-studies program, or - if already enrolled at the JKU as degree-seeking students - apply for special scholarships or have tuition fees waived. As part of the admissions process, the JKU is also taking the current situation in Ukraine into account and will process corresponding applications in an expedited manner as well as waive some requirements for certain documents, especially if these documents cannot be submitted (or can only be submitted later) on account of the war. Likewise, applications for a leave of absence from studies on account of current events in Ukraine will also be expedited. Information about the MORE program and the International Welcome Center is available at: JKU Linz for Ukrainian Refugees | JKU Linz. The page will be updated regularly and will also include visa information and information regarding accommodations. The International Welcome Center serves as a point of contact for students from a refugee background and Ukrainian researchers and scholars at the JKU Linz.
In addition to the MORE program, the JKU is introducing the following emergency measures to provide aid and assistance to Ukrainian students, researchers, and scholars affected and displaced on account of the current situation.
A new mobility program for Ukrainian students: Ukrainian students can now submit applications for a new mobility program , opens an external URL in a new window(specifically, students with Ukrainian citizenship or third-country nationals displaced from Ukraine who have international protection in Ukraine, and their family members). In order to be admitted, the student must be in the same type of degree program or subject area in Austria as he/she was in Ukraine. Depending the degree program, the student must also meet the level of language proficiency as is required to enroll in that particular program. If accepted and there is enough capacity, a limited number of students can be admitted for the 2022 Summer Semester and will not be subject to paying tuition fees.
Additional prerequisites for admission is that the student’s major in Ukraine is the same major as offered at the JKU and that the student has the language skills as required for that particular degree program.
The WIST student dormitory will offer free accommodations to 15 Ukrainian students: The offer is for Ukrainian students who are already enrolled at the JKU, or intend to enroll at the JKU, and is valid beginning now up until the end of August. See: Johannes Kepler University Linz and WIST Student Housing Offer Help for Ukrainian Students | JKU Linz for detailed information.
In addition, the Austrian Federal Ministry has issued a ruling that during Summer Semester 2022, Ukrainian students will generally be exempt from paying any tuition fees. In addition, Ukrainian students can expect a more accommodating policy in regard to any necessary absences.
The JKU is also currently supporting the Red Cross in the search for those who can speak Ukrainian and can help with translation and providing support services.
The University Sports Center (USI) will offer free USI courses to Ukrainian refugees (provided there are open spots in the respective courses).