Unit 1: Semester and study planning

List of contents

How to study at a German University

How to plan your semester

How do I plan my semester?

Text for accessibility:

How do I plan my semester?

Step 1: What's all happening this upcoming semester? What do you want to use for your planning (digital calendar/a traditional planer)?

Step 2: Enter all of your university appointments

Step 3: Schedule preparation and wrap-up times

Step 4 (if applicable): Enter the times for your part-time job

Step 5: Enter your leisure activities

Make sure to leave room for things you can't plan!

Test out your schedule for two weeks. Is it realistic?

• Are the times for preparation and wrap-up are enough/too little?

• Will you attend all classes as scheduled or will you postpone something until the next semester?

•  Do you have enough free time and time to relax?

Tips for staying on track:

1. Enter your appointments visibly, e.g. using notifications on your digital calendar or a traditional planner visible on your desk

2. Accept your shortcomings! Rather plan less and test out your planning. If it works out well, you can always study more.

3. Exchange ideas with your friends! How do they motivate themselves? How do they plan? How do they keep on track?

4. Reward yourself: Go outside! Make sure to move around a lot and get plenty of exercise. Don‘t always think about your studies!

5. Develop routines: You can learn more about that in unit "Routines.“

Planning the semester with Friedolin

Study and Examination Regulations

I failed the exam - what now?

In the Study and Examination Regulations you will find information about special cases that can occur. If you have more detailed questions about what is possible and what is not, you need to understand where exactly the rules for your studies are laid down. The recommended study plans offer a first orientation.

They are based on the Study and Examination Regulations, in which the binding rules for your studies are laid down, i.e. what is possible and what is not. The Examination Regulations provide the framework on the basis of which the study regulations determine what the objectives, content and structure of the studies are.

The module catalogues are in turn created on the basis of the Study Regulations. There, it is described what is taught in each module and there you will also find the recommended study plan for the degree programme.

On the cards below are a few examples where it is worth taking a look at the Study and Examination Regulations! You can find the regulations on the websites of your faculty and/or on Friedolin. If you have special questions, please contact your subject advisor. The information who is the advisor for your subject can be found in the description of the degree programs (link) (click on the degree program, on the respective page).

Contact persons for (subject specific) questions

Who can help me?

Application

As it is one thing to get the tips and another to apply them, we have developed a reflection tool for the Digital Learning Kit that you can use regularly, preferably in exchange with fellow students.

On the Mahara platform as a tool for group work, you can find other students who are interested in similar topics and join together in groups.

The exchange group also provides reflection templates for documenting your work and slowly improve it through reflection. You can copy and edit these templates in your personal portfolio on Mahara. If you wish, you can share them with the other group members to exchange ideas.

Further resources