General information

What is autism?

Autism is a developmental disorder with a highly varied presentation, ranging from mild to severe, and is often accompanied by impaired perception, behavior, and communication. Due to its complexity and individuality, it is referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
However, there is no such thing as THE autism. Not everyone who has a preference for order or fixed structures and routines has autism. However, there are consistent diagnostic criteria that are almost without exception evident in varying degrees. These include: difficulties with social interaction and communication, as well as behavioral abnormalities. A professional diagnosis is essential in every case.

It is often found that students on the autism spectrum and with related impairments frequently have the following difficulties:

  • Planning and organizing their studies
  • Group work and oral presentations
  • Making friends
  • Integrating into groups
  • Seeking help
  • Representing their own interests
  • Anxiety/depression

Increased awareness and consideration on the part of university staff can help improve the course of study and academic success for those affected. Services such as moderated self-help groups or peer mentors can also be helpful in this regard.

How does autism develop?

According to current knowledge, autism spectrum disorder is based on genetic and hereditary factors. If autism already runs in the family, there is a definite risk of it being passed on to the next generation.

Autism is considered to be congenital and does not develop over the course of a lifetime!

How is autism treated?

There is no therapy that “cures” autism. However, there are autism-specific support and service offerings that can be a great help in coping with everyday life.


What are the benefits of an autism diagnosis?

A professional diagnosis is important for claiming compensation for disadvantages. If you have a diagnosis and certain requirements are met, you are entitled to financial support, such as increased family allowance (see: www.help.gv.at).
 

Wohin kann ich mich für eine Diagnose wenden?

Bezüglich Autismus bzw. Asperger-Syndrom können Sie sich an folgende Ansprechstellen wenden:

  • Fachärzt*innen für Kinder- und Jugendpsychiatrie (und psychotherapeutische Medizin)
  • Ambulatorien für Sozialpädiatrie bzw. Entwicklungsneurologie
  • Fachärzt*innen für Psychiatrie (und psychotherapeutische Medizin)

Anlaufstellen sind beispielsweise:

Where can I go for a diagnosis?

For autism or Asperger syndrome, you can contact the following points of contact:

  • Specialists in child and adolescent psychiatry (and psychotherapeutic medicine)
  • Outpatient clinics for social pediatrics or developmental neurology
  • Specialists in psychiatry (and psychotherapeutic medicine)

Contact points include, for example:

What are the challenges of studying?

Studying requires a high degree of flexibility, self-organization, and social interaction.
For people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or pronounced autistic traits, this can pose particular challenges—even if they often cope very well with the academic requirements of their studies.

Individual differences

Every person on the autism spectrum is unique—the severity of their traits and the resulting challenges can vary greatly.

Typical difficulties and characteristics

People on the autism spectrum may exhibit the following characteristics, among others:

  • Characteristics in perception and communication
  • Challenges in interpersonal exchange
  • Deviating or heightened sensory perception (e.g., sensitivity to noise, light, or crowds)
  • Pronounced special interests and particular strengths in certain subject areas

Impact on everyday student life

These characteristics can manifest themselves in various situations in a university context, for example:

  • Conversations and comprehension: Difficulties interpreting conversations or nonverbal cues (e.g., gestures, facial expressions) correctly
  • Group work and discussions with fellow students can be challenging
  • Oral exams or spontaneous discussions in seminars can cause stress or overwhelm
  • Administrative tasks (e.g., creating a schedule, communicating with administrators or instructors) often require additional support

How can the university provide support?

  • Specialized counseling centers
    • for choosing and planning your studies,
    • applying for accommodations,
    • and organizing your daily study routine.
  • exams:
    • Extended processing times
    • Adapted exam rooms or fixed seating
    • Use of laptops or technical aids
    • Option to take oral exams without eye contact
  • Courses:
    • Exemption from presentations with written substitute work
    • Permission to use aids (e.g., headphones)
    • Individual seat selection
  • Room design:
    • Adjustments to avoid sensory overload
    • Use of headphones during lectures or exams
    • Permission to leave the room briefly if necessary
  • Mentoring:
    • Accompanying students, helping them find their way around, and supporting them in their everyday student life.