7. Do I take a semester off or study part-time?

Semester off 

With a semester of leave, students have the opportunity to interrupt their studies for the duration of a semester, e.g. in the event of prolonged illness.

You can apply for a semester of leave either when you re-register for the coming semester or at the beginning of the current semester (usually up to 6 weeks after the start of lectures). If an acute illness prevents you from completing the semester in a meaningful way until later, a leave of absence is also possible during the current semester in exceptional cases at many universities.

A semester of leave has consequences in many areas, e.g. the BAföG entitlement is suspended during a semester of leave. Benefits already paid for the semester of leave must be refunded.

You should consider the consequences before making your decision. If you have any further questions, we will be happy to advise you!
The representatives or the counselling centres for students with disabilities at the universities offer support with applying for a leave of absence if required.

Part-time study

As an alternative to full-time study, it is possible to apply for part-time study. Switching from full-time to part-time study has an impact on many areas, e.g. you are not entitled to BAföG if you study part-time. Let us advise you in advance!

You can obtain information on the regulations for part-time study and semesters on leave at your university from your student administration/registration office, the representatives for the interests of students with disabilities, the student advisory service or the AStA.