ÖH

ÖH stands for Österreichische Hochschülerinnen- und Hochschülervertretung, the Austrian student representation. It is the official umbrella organization that represents students at public universities in Austria and serves as the statutory voice in university governance and higher education policy. Local bodies operate at individual universities, and a federal body coordinates cross-university issues and national policy.

Legal basis and elections: The ÖH operates under Austrian higher education and university law. Students enrolled at a university elect the local ÖH representatives in regular elections, typically for a two-year term. Delegates from the local ÖHs form the federal or Bundessvertretung. The organization is funded by mandatory student contributions included in semester fees and, to a lesser extent, public subsidies.

Functions and services: The ÖH advocates for student interests in curricula, examination arrangements, admission and housing policies, and general study conditions. It provides counseling and legal assistance on student rights, supports scholarships and financial aid, and negotiates with university administrations on budgets and governance. It also represents student perspectives to ministries and other authorities and coordinates cross-university projects and campaigns.

Organization and activities: Each public university has its own ÖH chapter, handling on-site representation, services, and campaigns. At the federal level, the Bundessvertretung coordinates policy positions, elections, and joint initiatives. The ÖH conducts information campaigns, cultural and welfare activities, and various student-support programs.

Political aspects: While student groups within the ÖH often align with political parties or youth organizations, the ÖH itself is intended to be independent and non-partisan in its official capacity, focusing on students’ collective interests.