University of Stuttgart enters a new partnership with the Olympic Training Center

Students engaged in elite sports must balance their demanding athletic commitments with an equally challenging academic program. Long and frequent training sessions, training camps during exam periods, and additional physiotherapy pose further challenges. The University of Stuttgart has now signed a cooperation agreement with the Olympic Training Center Stuttgart and Studierendenwerk Stuttgart.

At the University of Stuttgart, designated contacts are now available to provide tailored academic advice and planning, as well as more flexible scheduling for study programs and examinations – options may include alternative assessment methods or an extension of the study period. Prof. Peter Middendorf, Rector of the University of Stuttgart, says: “This cooperation agreement is more than just a commitment to sports: It includes specific measures to help our students better combine their studies with elite sports. The University of Stuttgart is proud to support students who demonstrate such outstanding commitment.” The career advisors at the Olympic Training Center assist athletes in planning their dual careers. The Stuttgart Student Services provide dormitory accommodations and individual psychotherapeutic counseling. In return, the students take on representative roles, keep their contacts updated on their athletic achievements, and, whenever possible, contribute to strengthening dual-career advising for elite student-athletes after graduation.

At the signing of the cooperation agreement, Prof. Carmen Borggrefe and Prof. Tobias Siebert from the Institute of Sport and Movement Science were accompanied by Sascha Molt and Lisa Röhrich, who oversee career counseling for athletes at the Olympic Training Center Stuttgart. Also present were Maurice Schmidt, who won gold in wheelchair fencing at the 2024 Paralympic Games in Paris, and Rosina Schneider, who competed for the German team at the 2025 FISU World University Games. Both are pleased with the cooperation and the support that now makes their dual careers easier.