SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                              WASHINGTON D.C. 20549


                                    FORM 6-K


                        REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER
                    PURSUANT TO RULE 13A-16 OR 15D-16 OF THE
                         SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

                                November 12, 2001


                                VIVENDI UNIVERSAL

                             42, AVENUE DE FRIEDLAND
                                   75008 PARIS
                                     FRANCE
                    (ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES)


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports
under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

                     Form 20-F     X           Form 40-F


Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information
contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the
Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

                     Yes                       No     X


If "Yes" is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in
connection with Rule 12g3-2(b):

Contents:  Letter to Shareholders.

                                   SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the
registrant has duly caused this Report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.


                                           VIVENDI UNIVERSAL


                                           By: /s/ George E. Bushnell III
                                               --------------------------------
                                               Name:  George E. Bushnell III
                                               Title:  Vice President


Date:  November 14, 2001

                                  EXHIBIT LIST




Exhibit       Description
           
   99.1       Letter to Shareholders.