Bielefeld University is known for having one of the best libraries in Germany. More than two million volumes and six thousand national and international periodicals are available to students and faculty. The library's long opening hours, the open stack arrangement, and the user-friendly computerized cataloguing and lending system allow for a convenient usage of its resources. Participation in an online interlibrary loan service operated by a number of German universities makes books and scientific journals not shelved in Bielefeld available.

The central computing center (HRZ) is responsible for the development and supervision of Bielefeld University's IT infrastructure. An up-to-date computer network connects students and faculty with the world. Several computer labs and an internet cafe offer email services and web access. Graduate students at BiGSEM may use the school's own excellent computer equipment. Both the computing center and BiGSEM operate modern monochrome and color laser printers.

In Bielefeld, a large number of rooms and small apartments is available to students in various public and private residence halls. Numerous landlords offer additional living space in the vicinity of the university building. The graduate school has detailed information about the current housing situation in Bielefeld and assists new students to find appropriate and inexpensive accommodation.

German institutions of higher education usually do not award scholarships or grants to their students. Most graduate students cover their living expenses by working as teaching or research assistants. Outstanding graduates may apply for one or several of the numerous scholarship programs offered by public and private organizations. The graduate school supplies prospective students with information about these programs and supports their applications. In addition, BiGSEM awards several scholarships to outstanding students.

Bielefeld University's International Office (Akademisches Auslandsamt) provides various services to international students. For example, it takes care of the formal admission of BiGSEM's students to Bielefeld University and other important legal issues. In cooperation with other university institutions, the International Office offers to international students the so-called Brother-Sister-Program. Interested students are assigned a personal mentor, a German student familiar with Bielefeld University and the various administrative necessities. The aim of this and other activities is to facilitate the integration. The administration office of BiGSEM offers assistance to all graduates and organizes German language courses in cooperation with PunktUm German.

Consulting services and German language courses for international graduate students fall into the area of activity of PunktUm, a project initiated by Bielefeld University some years ago. PunktUm's staff assists students to solve problems arising from cultural differences and helps them to get acquainted with German academic standards. BiGSEM's international students usually participate in one of PunktUm's German language courses.

The Studentenwerk Bielefeld provides numerous services to national and international students. It runs several residence halls, which offer inexpensive accommodation close to Bielefeld University. Its student restaurants and cafeterias located within the university building sell inexpensive meals and drinks.