Lecture period and courses
The academic year is divided into two parts. Every semester is divided into a lecture period (approx. 4 months) and a lecture-free period. The exact dates, including the lecture start and holiday periods for current and future semesters, can be found in the academic calendar.
You can find the course catalog for every semester on C@MPUS. It provides detailed information about courses, lecturers, topics etc. You can find more information and tips on how to use C@MPUS on the support website, e.g. how to create your own class schedule.
Lecture-free period and exams
During the lecture-free period, you can study and take exams, work, or do an internship. Depending on your study program and, sometimes, the course lecturer, exams can be held in the last lecture week, shortly after or even a few weeks after the lecture period (especially if you have to write assignments or term papers).
Overview: What you need to know about exam and exam organization
Registration: To participate in the exams, you have to register for them on C@MPUS during the exam registration period (Prüfungsanmeldung), even if you are already registered for the corresponding lesson.
Illness and withdrawal: If you are sick on the day of the exam or unable to prepare for your exam due to illness, you can withdraw from your exam registration. You will need to get a medical certificate (Arbeitsunfähigkeitsbescheinigung / Attest) stating that you are unable to take the exams. Find out more: Withdrawal from exam registration and exams
Regulations: Examination regulations (Prüfungsordnungen, only in German) contain all legal regulations about exam registration and the type, time, and scope of the examination.
Course types: There are different course types. Please keep in mind that study programs are organized into modules. Each module is assigned a certain number of ECTS credits. A single ECTS credit approximates a 30-hour workload per semester. Generally, students attend courses and exams for approx. 30 ECTS credits per semester.
Coursework and graded assessments: Your module handbook details which coursework or graded assessment applies to each module. Find out more: Categorization of coursework and graded assessments
Grades: Grades range from 1,0 (very good) to 4,0 (sufficient). If you fail an exam, you will receive a 5,0. On your C@MPUS account, you can find all your grades and download your transcript of records, i.e. the official list of exams you have taken so far.
Final graduation documents: Please follow the required steps to receive your final graduation documents, including the so-called Diploma Supplement, an official document attached to all Bachelor’s and Master’s certificates. It provides information about the study program and qualification profile in detail and thus serves as proof for international universities or employers to recognize your academic achievements.
Finding the right balance
Studying comes with responsibilities, but it is also a great opportunity to learn independently! However, please do not underestimate the workload of university classes: you'll prepare lessons, study material, write essays, or create presentations. Following your degree program's recommended workload can help you stay on track.
But remember, university life is more than lectures and exams. Finding the right balance is key to both success and well-being. Try to make time for:
• Student clubs or activities
• Ways to finance your studies, like part-time jobs
• Rest and personal time
• Family-compatible study conditions
Internships
In some study programs, internships are mandatory, while in others you may choose to do a voluntary internship to get practical knowledge and improve your skill. If you have questions, please refer to the Internship office (Praktikantenamt) of your study program or institute. If your faculty does not have an internship office, please ask your course director.
Internships may range from several weeks to 5-6 months, depending on the company. In case of a voluntary internship, you may apply for a leave of absence (Beurlaubung). This means that you cannot participate in lessons and take exams during that semester and that you are exempted from the tuition fees. Please find out as soon as possible whether this applies to you and note the application deadlines on the website.
Good to know
Orientation exam
If you are studying in a Bachelor’s program, you may have to pass an "orientation exam" (Orientierungsprüfung). To find out more, please refer to our orientation exam entry and the exam regulations (Prüfungsordnungen) of your study program.
Leave of absence
If you are unable to attend classes for an extended period during the semester, you may apply for a leave of absence (Beurlaubung). Consult with the Student Service and Examination office about your options.
During your studies, you may want to take part in a student exchange program and spend one or two semesters abroad. Please find out about your options at least 1.5 years before your planned stay and stay informed on our partner universities and advisory services
Studying with a disability or chronic illness
The University offers a wide range of support for students with a disability or chronic illness to ensure studying as autonomously as possible.
Throughout your studies, you may have questions or seek guidance regarding study organization. The International Office can provide advice and assistance for international students that will help you find the right services and contacts at the University of Stuttgart.
Contact
International Office
- Further information
- +49 711 685 68566
- Write e-mail
- Open office hours at the IZ: Monday & Wednesday 2-4 p.m., also on Tuesday & Thursday 10-12 a.m. during March-April & September-October