FAQs – After enrollment

After enrollment, many practical and organizational questions often arise. These FAQs provide an initial overview and compile important information to get you off to a great start at FAU.

General information about starting to study

This section contains basic information and tips to help you get off to the best possible start for your degree at FAU.

Overview of starting to study

For the degree programs Industrial Engineering and Management and Mechanical Engineering, a mandatory, at least six-week internship must be completed before the start of the program: department.mb.tf.fau.de/studium/internship_office.

There are no mandatory internships for any other degree programs.

For teaching degrees, we recommend completing the orientation internship before starting your studies: zfl.fau.de/education-studium/lehramt-nach-themen/praktika-im-lehramt.

Students in cooperative degree programs can have the module “study-related internship” (5 ECTS) in Business and Economics and Socioeconomics (School of Business, Economics, and Society) credited to their degree simply by presenting their contract.

You should check all the important information about starting to study at FAU and work through the checklist if applicable. In addition, it is advisable to check on the website of your degree program whether the schedule has to be created by students themselves or if it is provided by the subject.

Creating a schedule

The following steps must be taken to create a schedule:

  1. Download the relevant degree program and examination regulations as well as the General degree program and examination regulations of the faculty.
  2. Obtain information about the Grundlagen- und Orientierungsprüfung (GOP): Which ECTS credits from which modules must be gained by the end of the third subject semester after no more than two attempts at the examination?
  3. Take a note of the modules to be included in the GOP from the degree program and examination regulations.
  4. Use the module schedule (attached to the degree program and examination regulations) to check which modules are recommended for the first semester.
  5. Log in to campo and select classes from the course catalog. Save them in your schedule.
  6. View your saved schedule in campo under “MyStudies”.

Registering for classes

The first step is to check on StudOn whether it is still possible to register for the classes (log-in required). In campo, there is a direct link to StudOn in the “Dates” section of the modules (“Link to the course on StudOn”).

If official registration is no longer possible, you should contact the lecturer directly to clarify whether you can take part.

Further support

You can contact the Student Advice Center if you have questions about organizational matters.

Don’t worry – no one is alone in their confusion. Here are a few tips for settling in:

Nevertheless, interacting with fellow students is valuable: working together, supporting each other, and sharing experiences help you to keep track of things.

  • Finally, it’s worth taking a look at the page on starting out at university – go through the checklist step by step and cross off what you’ve already done. This creates structure and calm.

All kinds of abbreviations and terms from university life can be found by clicking on this link: Study A-Z.

This page contains all the important information about starting your studies at FAU. Please note: In general, introductory events often take place in the two weeks before lectures begin. However, this varies from subject to subject. You will need to check the relevant pages in good time to find out when the respective introductory events will take place and whether you need to be there in person.

Are you already enrolled and looking for a good way to prepare for the start of your studies?

The following steps can help you prepare as well as possible for your first semester:

  • Check whether a (preliminary) internship is required for the selected degree program.
  • Carefully read the examination regulations for the degree program or subjects to familiarize yourself with key rules and requirements.
  • Obtain information about the Grundlagen- und Orientierungsprüfung (GOP).
  • Check the degree program’s website to see whether you need to create your own schedule or whether it will be provided at the beginning of the semester.
  • Use the module schedule (appendix to the examination regulations) to note the planned teaching units for the first semester and draft a provisional schedule.
  • Regularly check the faculty or degree program website for the latest information on introductory events and important dates.
  • Check regularly to see when it is possible to register for courses via StudOn.
  • Get a comprehensive overview of FAU’s key online portals and information sources, including the FAU website, the FAU faculty pages, the relevant department and subject pages, the campo administration portal, and the StudOn learning portal. FAU’s page about starting to study provides a particularly helpful resource.
  • Carefully review the degree program’s website: Where are appointments published? What opportunities are available at the start of the semester? Who are the points of contact? Is there recommended reading for the first semester?

FAU students can study at many library locations and workspaces are available with different equipment to meet their needs. The Library Study Rooms Navigator can help you find a suitable workspace. All faculties also have computer rooms that can be used by students during their studies.

Learning and working places in the libraries

Opening hours, facilities, and locations in the study rooms navigator

Computer rooms

Opening hours, equipment, and locations of the CIP pools at the faculties

Mobile printing

Printer stations, where you can print from mobile devices using the University’s Wi-Fi, are also available at many locations.

Information is gathered in one central location on the FAU website. It is also recommended that you take a look at the websites for the degree program as well as the faculty/department.

Students who have completed their school education in Germany do not need to provide proof of language proficiency at the beginning of their undergraduate studies. In certain subjects, you must provide proof of language proficiency during your studies or before registering for the State Examination when studying for the teaching degree. All important information can be found here: Proof of language skills.

If you have chosen a foreign language as your subject, you must find out in advance what language level is required or recommended at the beginning of your studies.

In most cases, international students must provide proof of C1/C2 German language proficiency at the beginning of their studies. Further information can be found here: German language skills and language certificates.

Do you need to complete an internship before starting your studies? Are there mandatory internships?
For the degree programs Industrial Engineering and Management and Mechanical Engineering, a mandatory, at least six-week internship must be completed before the start of the program: department.mb.tf.fau.de/studium/internship_office. There are no mandatory internships for any other degree programs. For teaching degrees, we recommend completing the orientation internship before starting your studies: zfl.fau.de/education-studium/lehramt-nach-themen/praktika-im-lehramt. Students in cooperative degree programs can have the module “study-related internship” (5 ECTS) in Business and Economics and Socioeconomics (School of Business, Economics, and Society) credited to their degree simply by presenting their contract.
I missed the deadline for enrollment or one of the introductory events – what should I do?
You should check all the important information about starting to study at FAU and work through the checklist if applicable. In addition, it is advisable to check on the website of your degree program whether the schedule has to be created by students themselves or if it is provided by the subject. Creating a schedule The following steps must be taken to create a schedule: Download the relevant degree program and examination regulations as well as the General degree program and examination regulations of the faculty. Obtain information about the Grundlagen- und Orientierungsprüfung (GOP): Which ECTS credits from which modules must be gained by the end of the third subject semester after no more than two attempts at the examination? Take a note of the modules to be included in the GOP from the degree program and examination regulations. Use the module schedule (attached to the degree program and examination regulations) to check which modules are recommended for the first semester. Log in to campo and select classes from the course catalog. Save them in your schedule. View your saved schedule in campo under “MyStudies”. Registering for classes The first step is to check on StudOn whether it is still possible to register for the classes (log-in required). In campo, there is a direct link to StudOn in the “Dates” section of the modules (“Link to the course on StudOn”). If official registration is no longer possible, you should contact the lecturer directly to clarify whether you can take part. Further support You can contact the Student Advice Center if you have questions about organizational matters.
Lost at the start of your degree – and now what?
Don’t worry – no one is alone in their confusion. Here are a few tips for settling in: Are you confused about introductory courses and schedules? These pages can help you get started: schedules and pre-semester courses and introductory events. If you have any questions about the content of the degree program, the subject advisors will be happy to help. If it is no longer clear which question belongs where, the “Who can help me” feature provides guidance and the appropriate contacts. It makes sense to be a little skeptical about information from WhatsApp groups or fellow students – if in doubt, it is better to check with official advisory services, such as the Student Advice Center (ZSB). Nevertheless, interacting with fellow students is valuable: working together, supporting each other, and sharing experiences help you to keep track of things. Finally, it’s worth taking a look at the page on starting out at university – go through the checklist step by step and cross off what you’ve already done. This creates structure and calm.
The University ABC
All kinds of abbreviations and terms from university life can be found by clicking on this link: Study A-Z.
What do you generally need to keep in mind when starting your studies?
This page contains all the important information about starting your studies at FAU. Please note: In general, introductory events often take place in the two weeks before lectures begin. However, this varies from subject to subject. You will need to check the relevant pages in good time to find out when the respective introductory events will take place and whether you need to be there in person.
What preparations can I make before the semester starts?
Are you already enrolled and looking for a good way to prepare for the start of your studies? The following steps can help you prepare as well as possible for your first semester: Check whether a (preliminary) internship is required for the selected degree program. Carefully read the examination regulations for the degree program or subjects to familiarize yourself with key rules and requirements. Obtain information about the Grundlagen- und Orientierungsprüfung (GOP). Check the degree program’s website to see whether you need to create your own schedule or whether it will be provided at the beginning of the semester. Use the module schedule (appendix to the examination regulations) to note the planned teaching units for the first semester and draft a provisional schedule. Regularly check the faculty or degree program website for the latest information on introductory events and important dates. Check regularly to see when it is possible to register for courses via StudOn. Get a comprehensive overview of FAU’s key online portals and information sources, including the FAU website, the FAU faculty pages, the relevant department and subject pages, the campo administration portal, and the StudOn learning portal. FAU’s page about starting to study provides a particularly helpful resource. Carefully review the degree program’s website: Where are appointments published? What opportunities are available at the start of the semester? Who are the points of contact? Is there recommended reading for the first semester?
Where can I find study rooms?
FAU students can study at many library locations and workspaces are available with different equipment to meet their needs. The Library Study Rooms Navigator can help you find a suitable workspace. All faculties also have computer rooms that can be used by students during their studies. Learning and working places in the libraries Opening hours, facilities, and locations in the study rooms navigator Computer rooms Opening hours, equipment, and locations of the CIP pools at the faculties Mobile printing Printer stations, where you can print from mobile devices using the University’s Wi-Fi, are also available at many locations.
Where can you find key information about starting your studies?
Information is gathered in one central location on the FAU website. It is also recommended that you take a look at the websites for the degree program as well as the faculty/department.
Which language requirements apply in each case?
Students who have completed their school education in Germany do not need to provide proof of language proficiency at the beginning of their undergraduate studies. In certain subjects, you must provide proof of language proficiency during your studies or before registering for the State Examination when studying for the teaching degree. All important information can be found here: Proof of language skills. If you have chosen a foreign language as your subject, you must find out in advance what language level is required or recommended at the beginning of your studies. In most cases, international students must provide proof of C1/C2 German language proficiency at the beginning of their studies. Further information can be found here: German language skills and language certificates.
Everything you need to know about your first week

Introductory sessions

Introductory events provide essential guidance for students, technical information and an opportunity to get to know your fellow students and FAU’s organizational units.

Overview of introductory sessions

You should check all the important information about starting to study at FAU and work through the checklist if applicable. In addition, it is advisable to check on the website of your degree program whether the schedule has to be created by students themselves or if it is provided by the subject.

Creating a schedule

The following steps must be taken to create a schedule:

  1. Download the relevant degree program and examination regulations as well as the General degree program and examination regulations of the faculty.
  2. Obtain information about the Grundlagen- und Orientierungsprüfung (GOP): Which ECTS credits from which modules must be gained by the end of the third subject semester after no more than two attempts at the examination?
  3. Take a note of the modules to be included in the GOP from the degree program and examination regulations.
  4. Use the module schedule (attached to the degree program and examination regulations) to check which modules are recommended for the first semester.
  5. Log in to campo and select classes from the course catalog. Save them in your schedule.
  6. View your saved schedule in campo under “MyStudies”.

Registering for classes

The first step is to check on StudOn whether it is still possible to register for the classes (log-in required). In campo, there is a direct link to StudOn in the “Dates” section of the modules (“Link to the course on StudOn”).

If official registration is no longer possible, you should contact the lecturer directly to clarify whether you can take part.

Further support

You can contact the Student Advice Center if you have questions about organizational matters.

Don’t worry – no one is alone in their confusion. Here are a few tips for settling in:

Nevertheless, interacting with fellow students is valuable: working together, supporting each other, and sharing experiences help you to keep track of things.

  • Finally, it’s worth taking a look at the page on starting out at university – go through the checklist step by step and cross off what you’ve already done. This creates structure and calm.

Introductory events are offered immediately before the start of lectures and usually take place only once. They prepare you for starting your studies and the first semester. During the introductory events, students receive information about the schedule, for example, or an overview of the structure of the respective degree program.

Tip: Even though participation in the introductory events is voluntary, it is strongly recommended that you attend them.

Introductory courses, on the other hand, are teaching units that start at the beginning of the lecture period. They usually take place weekly during the first semester and provide an introduction to the subject matter. Introductory courses are often compulsory.

There is no set date for the publication of the schedules of all introductory events. The dates may also be announced at short notice. You should check the relevant pages at regular intervals.

Generally, introductory events take place in the two weeks before lectures begin, sometimes also in the first week of lectures. However, this varies from subject to subject. It is therefore advisable to check the relevant pages in good time to find out when the introductory events take place and whether you need to be there in person.

First things first: Very few events prior to the start of the degree program are compulsory. However, it is still recommended that students voluntarily participate in activities offered by the degree program and the faculty/department.

Our tips

  • Check the relevant pages in good time to find out when the introductory events are taking place and whether you need to be there in person. Also take a look at the websites of the degree program and the faculty/department.
  • Attend the online presentations offered by the Student Advice Center (ZSB) on preparing for your studies and ZSB’s orientation day for new students. This will take place for the first time in winter semester 2025/26.
  • Further general information, such as training courses offered by the University Library, can be found on the FAU website.
  • Students studying secondary education for Gymnasium (and also Realschule) should definitely attend the general teacher training introduction and a timetable workshop in addition to the introductory events for their subjects.
  • Students pursuing a teaching degree in elementary education (Grundschule) or middle school (Mittelschule) (and Realschule) should attend the introductory days (including the timetable workshop) at the Regensburger Straße Campus in Nuremberg.
  • The official new students welcome event in the Heinrich-Lades-Halle in Erlangen is a symbolic welcome for all new students to FAU.
I missed the deadline for enrollment or one of the introductory events – what should I do?
You should check all the important information about starting to study at FAU and work through the checklist if applicable. In addition, it is advisable to check on the website of your degree program whether the schedule has to be created by students themselves or if it is provided by the subject. Creating a schedule The following steps must be taken to create a schedule: Download the relevant degree program and examination regulations as well as the General degree program and examination regulations of the faculty. Obtain information about the Grundlagen- und Orientierungsprüfung (GOP): Which ECTS credits from which modules must be gained by the end of the third subject semester after no more than two attempts at the examination? Take a note of the modules to be included in the GOP from the degree program and examination regulations. Use the module schedule (attached to the degree program and examination regulations) to check which modules are recommended for the first semester. Log in to campo and select classes from the course catalog. Save them in your schedule. View your saved schedule in campo under “MyStudies”. Registering for classes The first step is to check on StudOn whether it is still possible to register for the classes (log-in required). In campo, there is a direct link to StudOn in the “Dates” section of the modules (“Link to the course on StudOn”). If official registration is no longer possible, you should contact the lecturer directly to clarify whether you can take part. Further support You can contact the Student Advice Center if you have questions about organizational matters.
Lost at the start of your degree – and now what?
Don’t worry – no one is alone in their confusion. Here are a few tips for settling in: Are you confused about introductory courses and schedules? These pages can help you get started: schedules and pre-semester courses and introductory events. If you have any questions about the content of the degree program, the subject advisors will be happy to help. If it is no longer clear which question belongs where, the “Who can help me” feature provides guidance and the appropriate contacts. It makes sense to be a little skeptical about information from WhatsApp groups or fellow students – if in doubt, it is better to check with official advisory services, such as the Student Advice Center (ZSB). Nevertheless, interacting with fellow students is valuable: working together, supporting each other, and sharing experiences help you to keep track of things. Finally, it’s worth taking a look at the page on starting out at university – go through the checklist step by step and cross off what you’ve already done. This creates structure and calm.
What are introductory events? Are they introductory courses?
Introductory events are offered immediately before the start of lectures and usually take place only once. They prepare you for starting your studies and the first semester. During the introductory events, students receive information about the schedule, for example, or an overview of the structure of the respective degree program. Tip: Even though participation in the introductory events is voluntary, it is strongly recommended that you attend them. Introductory courses, on the other hand, are teaching units that start at the beginning of the lecture period. They usually take place weekly during the first semester and provide an introduction to the subject matter. Introductory courses are often compulsory.
When are the dates for the introductory events finalized?
There is no set date for the publication of the schedules of all introductory events. The dates may also be announced at short notice. You should check the relevant pages at regular intervals.
When do the introductory events usually take place?
Generally, introductory events take place in the two weeks before lectures begin, sometimes also in the first week of lectures. However, this varies from subject to subject. It is therefore advisable to check the relevant pages in good time to find out when the introductory events take place and whether you need to be there in person.
Where can I find my introductory events?
This page lists all introductory events organized by the faculties and central institutions. Note for students studying for a teaching degree in secondary education (Gymnasium) (and Realschule): You should definitely attend the general teacher training introduction and a timetable workshop in addition to the introductory events for their subjects. Note for students studying for a teaching degree in primary education (Grundschule) (and secondary education Realschule): The introductory days (including timetable workshop) at the Regensburger Straße Campus in Nuremberg should be attended.
Which events should you definitely attend before you start your studies?
First things first: Very few events prior to the start of the degree program are compulsory. However, it is still recommended that students voluntarily participate in activities offered by the degree program and the faculty/department. Our tips Check the relevant pages in good time to find out when the introductory events are taking place and whether you need to be there in person. Also take a look at the websites of the degree program and the faculty/department. Attend the online presentations offered by the Student Advice Center (ZSB) on preparing for your studies and ZSB’s orientation day for new students. This will take place for the first time in winter semester 2025/26. Further general information, such as training courses offered by the University Library, can be found on the FAU website. Students studying secondary education for Gymnasium (and also Realschule) should definitely attend the general teacher training introduction and a timetable workshop in addition to the introductory events for their subjects. Students pursuing a teaching degree in elementary education (Grundschule) or middle school (Mittelschule) (and Realschule) should attend the introductory days (including the timetable workshop) at the Regensburger Straße Campus in Nuremberg. The official new students welcome event in the Heinrich-Lades-Halle in Erlangen is a symbolic welcome for all new students to FAU.
Student life

Accommodation, life and studying

Student life involves much more than just lectures and seminars. This section answers questions about accommodation, finance, leisure, volunteering, and everyday life and shows you where you can get support so you can find your bearings in your new surroundings.

Overview of student life

Many students take on part-time jobs to finance their studies. The Deutsches Studentenwerk (German National Association for Student Affairs) has put together some information online of what to keep in mind.

Students with German citizenship can find an overview page on the topic of part-time jobs on the website of the Deutsches Studentenwerk. There is also a link to a flyer on the topic.

For students of other nationalities, the German National Association for Student Affairs also provides an overview page on the topic of part-time jobs. Information for international students is available in both German and English. The flyer for international students is available in German and English.

Yes, it is generally possible to complete internships abroad. If you are interested in doing so, please contact International Affairs (formerly known as RIA for short) to explore the various options for spending time abroad. In addition, it is worth contacting those responsible for your subject to find out which international partnerships exist. To clarify credit transfer options, please contact the relevant Internship Office.

Helpful tips on the subject of housing can be found both on the Student Services website and on this FAU page.

The Student Services website also provides information on BAföG (student financial aid) and offers the option of welfare support, for example, for questions about financing your studies. This page on the FAU website lists all important information regarding student financing.

To find a study group, students can inquire with their student association (FSI) or via the WhatsApp groups for their subjects, in addition to their courses.

Enrolled students can borrow literature free of charge from the University Library (UB) at FAU. To do this, the library function of the FAUcard must be activated. Further information can be found on the University Library website. It makes sense to attend a course on borrowing literature and using the library beforehand.

At the FAU Language Centre, you can improve your language skills in modern languages or learn new languages. In addition, there is usually the opportunity to take foreign language exams and obtain certificates.

Further information can be found on the FAU Language Centre website.

WiSo (the School of Business, Economics and Society) is located at two sites in Nuremberg. The Faculty of Sciences and the Faculty of Engineering are located in the south of Erlangen. The Faculty of Medicine, the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Theology, and the School of Law are spread across Erlangen city center.

Nevertheless, classes in your degree program may also be offered in the other city, which could require commuting – for example, if a practical art history seminar takes place in front of original works at the Germanisches Nationalmuseum in Nuremberg. You can check the specific venue in the course catalog.

Please note for teaching degrees: Primary and lower secondary school teaching degrees (Grundschul- und Mittelschullehramt) are always studied in Nuremberg. When studying to become a secondary school teacher at Realschule you can largely choose which city you would like to take classes in. However, there are exceptions, such as the subject of Business and Economics, which is only offered in Erlangen. Classes for teaching degrees in secondary education at Gymnasium are taught in Erlangen.

Whether it’s music, sports, politics, religion, or media – at FAU, students can get involved in activities that go far beyond their subjects: Networking and volunteering.

Confident use of Excel, Word, Citavi, SPSS, and the like saves time and stress during your studies, internships, and career. That is why the RRZE IT Training Center offers a wide range of free software courses.

Regardless of which faculty or degree program you are in – if you are interested in studying abroad, you can contact the central point of contact for studying abroad, International Affairs (formerly also referred to as RIA for short).

Are students permitted to work alongside their studies?
Many students take on part-time jobs to finance their studies. The Deutsches Studentenwerk (German National Association for Student Affairs) has put together some information online of what to keep in mind. Students with German citizenship can find an overview page on the topic of part-time jobs on the website of the Deutsches Studentenwerk. There is also a link to a flyer on the topic. For students of other nationalities, the German National Association for Student Affairs also provides an overview page on the topic of part-time jobs. Information for international students is available in both German and English. The flyer for international students is available in German and English.
Can you do internships abroad?
Yes, it is generally possible to complete internships abroad. If you are interested in doing so, please contact International Affairs (formerly known as RIA for short) to explore the various options for spending time abroad. In addition, it is worth contacting those responsible for your subject to find out which international partnerships exist. To clarify credit transfer options, please contact the relevant Internship Office.
Housing, BAföG & financing – where can you find information?
Helpful tips on the subject of housing can be found both on the Student Services website and on this FAU page. The Student Services website also provides information on BAföG (student financial aid) and offers the option of welfare support, for example, for questions about financing your studies. This page on the FAU website lists all important information regarding student financing.
How do you find a study group?
To find a study group, students can inquire with their student association (FSI) or via the WhatsApp groups for their subjects, in addition to their courses.
How does the University Library's online lending service work?
Enrolled students can borrow literature free of charge from the University Library (UB) at FAU. To do this, the library function of the FAUcard must be activated. Further information can be found on the University Library website. It makes sense to attend a course on borrowing literature and using the library beforehand.
I can’t keep up with the language – what can I do?
At the FAU Language Centre, you can improve your language skills in modern languages or learn new languages. In addition, there is usually the opportunity to take foreign language exams and obtain certificates. Further information can be found on the FAU Language Centre website.
Studying in Erlangen or Nuremberg?
WiSo (the School of Business, Economics and Society) is located at two sites in Nuremberg. The Faculty of Sciences and the Faculty of Engineering are located in the south of Erlangen. The Faculty of Medicine, the Faculty of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Theology, and the School of Law are spread across Erlangen city center. Nevertheless, classes in your degree program may also be offered in the other city, which could require commuting – for example, if a practical art history seminar takes place in front of original works at the Germanisches Nationalmuseum in Nuremberg. You can check the specific venue in the course catalog. Please note for teaching degrees: Primary and lower secondary school teaching degrees (Grundschul- und Mittelschullehramt) are always studied in Nuremberg. When studying to become a secondary school teacher at Realschule you can largely choose which city you would like to take classes in. However, there are exceptions, such as the subject of Business and Economics, which is only offered in Erlangen. Classes for teaching degrees in secondary education at Gymnasium are taught in Erlangen.
Where can you get involved at FAU (hobbies and voluntary work)?
Whether it’s music, sports, politics, religion, or media – at FAU, students can get involved in activities that go far beyond their subjects: Networking and volunteering.
Where can you improve your software skills?
Confident use of Excel, Word, Citavi, SPSS, and the like saves time and stress during your studies, internships, and career. That is why the RRZE IT Training Center offers a wide range of free software courses.
You want to go abroad – who should you contact and what do you need to do?
Regardless of which faculty or degree program you are in – if you are interested in studying abroad, you can contact the central point of contact for studying abroad, International Affairs (formerly also referred to as RIA for short).