FAQs - Extension of the Study Duration / Exceeding the Maximum Length of Studies

The following information is of a general nature and does not replace students' obligations to cooperate, such as reading the relevant examination and study regulations.

Nothing happens at first. It is important that you contact the Central Examination Office if it appears likely that the degree course will not be completed within twice the standard length of study (e.g. within 12 semesters for a 6-semester bachelor's degree course). If the length of studies exceeds twice the standard length of study specified in the examination regulations without the student having successfully completed all examinations required for obtaining the degree, it can lead to the termination of enrolment (§ 37 RPO). This does not apply if, after attending a Departmental Advisory Service, the student submits a concept approved by the examination board for the completion of the degree course within two semesters. However, if there are reasons for which you are not responsible, please inform the Central Examination Office immediately in writing with signature.

If you were enrolled in summer semester 2020, winter semester 2020/21, summer semester 2021 and/or winter semester 2021/22 and were not on a leave of absence, these semesters will not be counted towards the maximum study duration. This means that you have up to four more semesters to complete your degree course.

The following reasons may lead to an extension of the standard length of study:

• Own illness or care of a sick or otherwise needy close relative
  • Proof: medical certificates (from a specialist), which, in particular, contain information on or assessments of your ability to study and perform (preferably as a percentage) and the course of your illness
• Pregnancy, maternity protection or supervision of a child on parental leave
  • Proof: copy of the Mutterpass (pregnancy record book), birth certificate or similar
• Activity in the self-government of the university or in bodies involved in student representation
  • Proof of regular involvement in a self-governing body of the university (e.g. Senate) by means of a certificate from the chairperson of the self-governing body to which the student belongs
  • Proof of regular involvement in a body involved in student representation (AStA, StuPa, moritz-Medien, department student council, etc.) by means of a certificate from the AStA
  • Please take note of the relevant administrative provision [de].

Further reasons:

• Overlapping, non-provision or cancellation of classes that comprise more than a quarter of the regular scope of classes
  • Proof in the form of a confirmation from the subject advisor or other suitable manner
• Period of stay abroad related to the degree course
  • Proof in the form of a certificate from the employer, the university abroad or other suitable manner
• Employment of more than one working day per week, if this is absolutely necessary for financing living expenses
  • Proof in the form of employment contracts with indication of the actual hours worked, other income (parental support, BAföG, scholarship); it is irrefutable if the total available income without the employment is below the maximum rate in accordance with BAföG and the amount of time worked is necessary to achieve a total income of this amount
• Double degree course in which at least half of the examinations and/or marked coursework cannot be mutually recognised
  • Proof of proper study and corresponding assessment components showing the course of study and level of study in both degree courses
• Fulfilment of requirements within the framework of a master's degree course amounting to more than 15 credits
  • Proof of the notification of requirements

The request for recognition of the reasons must be submitted in writing to the Central Examination Office immediately, at the latest by the end of the registration deadline specified in the examination regulations. Please enclose a copy of the above-mentioned proof with your request. Please note that you must not be or have been on a leave of absence for the same reason or be studying part-time.