Spitzensport & Studium
News
As part of the “Semester Warm-Up” event in 2025, there was an online interview with top swimmer Felix Auböck (World Champion 2021 and European Champion 2024), who currently lives in the USA. Felix, who ended his athletic career at the end of last year, provided interesting insights into his educational journey during his active swimming career and also spoke quite openly about the new challenges in the life of “the other Felix,” who is currently pursuing an academic goal with great dedication.
In the podcast by MedTriX and the Austrian Paralympic Committee, graduate, para-dressage rider, and military athlete Julia Sciancalepore, BSc talks about her dual career. Listen to the podcast.
The Project
The “Spitzensport und Studium“ project at the University of Klagenfurt is exemplary in Austria and aims to provide comprehensive support to student-athletes at the university on an administrative, ideological, and sporting level. The manageable size and charm of the Klagenfurt location, along with the close collaborations with sports support facilities in the region, offer perfect conditions. The goal is to foster optimal performance development in both academic and athletic areas.
Elite Athletes in the Project
Newcomers 2025
Graduates
Who?
The programme is aimed at successful and education-driven athletes from both summer and winter sports. A strong focus on performance and goal orientation, both in sports and in university education, is an essential requirement. Those who, despite the unpredictable nature of a sports career, aspire to complete a university degree, will find this project to be a perfect fit.
What?
The foundation of the project is a well-established support system. Each athlete, upon joining the project, is assigned a mentor from their chosen field of study. These mentors assist participants in managing their academic journey. Additionally, all athletes have access to a pool of dedicated individuals from public sectors as further points of contact. This comprehensive and personalized support ensures optimal academic progress.
Athletic Support
- Use of USI Infrastructure (e.g., weight room etc.)
- Sports Psychological Support (sports psychological training, career counseling, etc.)
- Sports Medical Support (performance tests, strength tests, etc.)
- Assistance in Optimizing Training Infrastructure
- Contact with Coaches, Associations, and Authorities
Academic Support
- Academic Advisory Services
- Assistance with Optimal Organization of Academic Progress
- Support for Courses with Attendance Requirements
- Coordination of Exam Dates
- Help in Conflict Situations
- Facilitation of Contacts with Relevant Authorities
How?
The application process for the project takes place once a year. A limited annual application deadline (June 8, 2026) must be observed. Within this period, the application documents (see example), which should include the desired field of study, the planned study path, and a list of previous athletic achievements, must be submitted to the University Sports Institute (USI). Additionally, a motivation letter (1-2 pages) with a detailed explanation of the choice of study and career and sports goals must be included. The selection is made by a six-member expert committee, and successful applicants will receive an admission notice in due time.
Contact
Contact Address
University Sports Institute Klagenfurt (USI), Universitätsstraße 63, 9020 Klagenfurt am Wörthersee
Tel.: +43 463 2700 9402, E-Mail: usi [at] aau [dot] at
General Terms and Conditions of Business USI | Statute USI Klagenfurt | Imprint/Privacy Policy
