Studying: Informations for Students

Academic calendar for the fall semester 2023:

The semester starts on 1 August 2023 and will end on 31 January 2024.

Lecture period for the fall semester 2023:
The lecture period starts on 4 September 2023 and will end on 8 December 2023.

The academic calendar at a glance

You can check the format of your class (on campus, partly on campus/virtually...) in Portal². You will find this information on the course details pages in the tab “parallelgroups”.

The teachers will take the individual framework conditions (type of class, number of participants, room situation, infection rates and quarantine situation among the participants) into account when deciding if the class will be held on campus or digitally. They will inform you if there are changes to the plan for your class. Please check the inbox of your university e-mail account regularly and go to Portal² to check the course details section, particularly the information on the individual classes and the notes regarding the classes, in order to find out about changes at short notice. Please note that the information on the form of participation might not apply for each individual class in the spring semester and that there might be changes that apply to individual dates.

Please also take note of the following: Should you experience symptoms that are typical for a coronavirus infection, please leave on-campus classes immediately and do not enter the campus again until a doctor confirms that you are not infected.

Microsoft 365 instance for students

You can use the Microsoft 365 instance for students to work with your fellow students in virtual study groups. Furthermore, this new instance enables you to use OneDrive with 1 TB of cloud storage, a cloud version of Office 365 with Word, Excel and PowerPoint, OneNote as well as Lists.
On the page Microsoft 365 for students, you will find an overview of all available applications with instructions and information for activating your account.

Support in developing learning skills and study techniques

Study techniques, such as learning methods, self-management or time management strategies or knowing how to handle databases securely, help you to master the challenges of your program. The University of Mannheim offers its students various support services: In addition to a wide-ranging course program, students can also receive individual support in one-on-one sessions.

overview about all services

Borrowing laptops for digital examinations

UNIT and the University Library cooperate to provide laptops that students may borrow. The laptops have the latest versions of SPSS and STATA and may be borrowed for 14 days or a semester at the University Library. For more information, please see the website of the University Library.

In order to mitigate the adverse effects of studying under the current pandemic conditions, legislators have once again extended the standard periods of study and the deadlines for completing coursework and examinations. Please check our website for all details about this adjustment.

You should only get in touch with your responsible advisor if you actually expect that you will not be able to meet an examination deadline. Otherwise, there is no action required from your side.

further information and contact persons

Students who are currently in Mannheim can use the self-service terminals to re-validate their ecUM. Currently, you can use the self-service terminals in the Schloss Ehrenhof Library, the A3 Library and the A5 Library as well as in the Central Lending Library during the opening hours of the University Library. Please observe the restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic. You can also use the terminals in the Mensa (near the Infothek) and in the Schneckenhof foyer (near Campus Shop).

If you are currently not in Mannheim, please carry your enrollment certificate with you and re-validate your ecUM as soon as you return to campus. This also allows you to obtain the VRN stamp to use free public transport during the weekends.

Information for first-year students: Before you can use your ecUM, you need to activate it on passwort.uni-mannheim.de. You need your Uni-ID and your password for activating your ecUM.

Spring semester 2023

With the return to on-campus classes, examinations will also take place on campus. However, individual examinations can take place online. Your examiner will inform you of the exam form as soon as possible.

Once the format of the examination has been determined, you can see the format of the examinations in Portal² under the examinations for which you registered.

Current information is communicated regularly by e-mail.

Usually, the examiners will inform you 14 days prior to the examination about the details of your take-home exams or live-online examinations. In our ILIAS group, we have compiled some quick guides and additional information on how to prepare for online examinations.

ILIAS group for students with information for preparing and completing online examinations
We have set up the ILIAS group informations for students which currently includes:

• A learning module with information for preparing and completing exams.
• An updated version of the declaration of consent for exams in the ILIAS learning module (in German and English).
• The latest information about “take-home” and “live-online” exams including the respective quick guides are also available in the ILIAS learning module for students.
• You can test both forms of examination in the freely available mock exams.

Test options for downloading/uploading – Preparation for open-book exams
All schools offer test options through which you can familiarize yourself with the functions of the online exams – especially with downloading and uploading examinations. Use these test options and test exams (test exams are only offered in a few cases), to get used to the new conditions. You will be informed in your respective courses, which test options are planned.

In order to check the quality and the speed of your Internet connection, the University IT is offering a speed test. When preparing for online exams, this speed test can help you to evaluate if your Internet connection is good enough for you to participate in the exam. If your Internet connection performs poorly in the speed test, you can request to write the exam in the rooms of the university and use the university’s wireless network. For more information, please click here.

Spring semester 2023

Late registrations and changes in registration are possible up to three days prior to the respective regular examination date, provided that this is generally an option for the respective exam. Withdrawals are possible up to three days prior to the respective regular or alternate examination date. For examinations that are not written exams, the deadline for late registrations and withdrawals generally ends on 27 May 2023. All details about these rules are available on our website.

Generally, bachelor’s and master's theses must still be submitted via e-mail. In order to meet your deadline, you must e-mail your thesis as a PDF file by the deadline to your responsible examiner and copy your responsible advisor at the Student Services in.

The bound and signed hard copy of your thesis must be sent to your responsible examiner without undue delay. Please contact your examiner to discuss when and how they want you to submit the hard copy of your thesis. You can use the mailboxes in front of L1,1 or send your thesis by mail directly to your responsible examiner.

university libraryexamination committees

Even if you are not yet enrolled, you can participate in the events for first-year students. You can access all virtual events via the Online Experience Plattform of the University of Mannheim.

If you’ve missed the orientation event, you can also watch videos or listen to sound recordings of the orientation events, if applicable. In addition, many departments offer special consultation hours. You can also contact your program manager and departmental student committee.

see the events for first-year students

Students with family responsibilities can find advice or support at any time from the respective competent advisor. The Student Services can be contacted via e-mail. We are happy to provide support and advice.

Furthermore, the Department of Equal Opportunity and Social Diversity created a website with information on which assistance services you can use for reconciling family and studies during this particular situation.

The teams of the Express Service, Student Services, the International Office and the Admissions Office are here for you and can be contacted via e-mail or phone.

The Express Service is open from Monday to Thursday from 9.30 a.m. to 12.00 a.m. Students may also attend Express Service's Virtual Queuing on Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. via Microsoft Teams.

You can contact the staff members of the Student Services via e-mail. If needed, you can make an appointment for a consultation via telephone, video conference or in-person with the staff members of the Student Services.

contact the Student Services

You can contact the staff members of the bursar's office via e-mail. If needed, you can make an appointment for a consultation via telephone or video conference.

contact the bursar's office

You can contact the staff members of the International Office via e-mail.

If needed, you can make an appointment for a consultation via telephone or video conference with the staff members of the International Office.

contact the International Office

You can contact the staff members of the Admissions Office via e-mail by writing to bewerbungmail-uni-mannheim.de.

You can also make an appointment for a video call.

contact the Admissions Office

Dear Students,

The semester is coming to an end and the exam period is about to start. In today’s e-mail we have compiled important news and information on different topics for you.

1. Reminder: Re-registration for the fall semester 2022/23

Until Wednesday, 15 June 2022, you can still re-register for the fall semester 2022/23.

In case you would like to continue your studies at the University of Mannheim in the upcoming semester, please transfer the semester fee of EUR 194.30 and possible further tuition fees by the due date to the account of the University of Mannheim. You can find all details on our website.

2.Examinations

2.1 Exam period for the regular examination dates and the alternate examination dates for the spring semester 2022

Details on the form of the examination, exam times, and rooms are given in the exam schedule on our website.

Alternate examination dates are scheduled between 27 August and 3 September 2022.

2.2 Late registration, changes in registration, withdrawal, and de-registration

You can make a late registration or changes to your registrations until up to three days before the regular examination date, provided this is generally admissible for the exam in question. For all important information, click here.

The procedures for withdrawing from an exam without valid reasons are defined for each program individually. Please read the information specific to your program to find out whether you can withdraw from an exam and up until when this is possible. As a rule, withdrawals from examinations are possible until three days prior to the exam in question (regular or alternate examination date). This is provided that it is not an exam subject to mandatory registration. On our website, you will also find information on de-registration due to the pandemic situation.

2.3 In-person exams

Your assigned seat in the exam room will be displayed for you in Portal² one week prior to the examination. We recommend wearing a medical-grade face mask or FFP2 face mask until seated. 

In case you registered late for an in-person exam after 29 May 2022, your seat cannot be displayed in Portal². Please go directly to the exam supervisor before the exam in question, present you registration (“My exams” in Portal²) and you will be assigned a seat.  

2.4 Online exams

We have compiled quick guides and further information for you in ILIAS.

In case a speed test identifies problems with your internet connectivity or speed, you have the option to take the exam in a room of the university. Please make sure to contact us at least one week prior to the exam in question: pruefkoordinationmail-uni-mannheim.de.

2.5 Workshops on intelligent study breaks and optimized exam preparation

In June and July, the Teaching and Learning Center offers new online workshops on learning how to study. The workshops are held via Zoom and are open to students of all levels and fields of study.

Increase your study success with intelligent breaks. How often and when should I take a break from studying? How can I refresh my mind within a few minutes in order to focus on my next studying goal? You will get answers to these questions in our workshop “Lernen lernen – Smarte Lernpausen” / “Learning how to study – intelligent breaks”.

The workshop „Lernen lernen – Prüfungsvorbereitung“ / “Learning how to study – exam preparation” is designed to teach you about a more efficient and effective studying period. Increase your success in studying by getting hands-on tips on time management, studying journals, and study methods. If they are interested, workshop participants may also book the additional consultation hour on exam preparation.

• Workshop „Lernen lernen – Smarte Lernpausen“: Wednesday, 1 June 2022, 10 to 11 a.m. or Friday, 3 June 2022, 10 to 11 a.m., registration via Portal² (go to parallel groups/dates)
• Workshop „Lernen lernen – Prüfungsvorbereitung“ in German: Wednesday, 20 July 2022, 10:15 to 11:45 a.m., registration via Portal²(go to parallel groups/dates)
• Workshop „Learn How to Study – Exam Preparation” in English: Thursday, 21 July 2022, 10:15 a.m. to 11:45 a.m., registration via Portal² (go to parallel groups/dates)

We encourage you to take advantage of our vast sources of information and workshops on self-regulated learning or self-organization.

3. Extended opening hours of the University Library during the examination period

Extended opening hours apply during the exam period from 9 May to 17 June 2022: The A3 Library, A5 Library, Schloss Schneckenhof Library and Schloss Ehrenhof Library are open daily, also on weekends and holidays, from 8 a.m. until midnight.

The central lending library is open from Mondays to Fridays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The InfoCenter is open from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

4. Express Service open again

As of 23 May the Express Service is opening again. Students can come by in L1, 1 without an appointment from Mondays to Thursdays in the mornings. Please find the detailed opening hours on the Express Service website.

5. ENGAGE.EU – New online programs. Apply by 1 July 2022

Online Exchange Initiative in the fall semester 2022

Since the fall semester 2020, students of the University of Mannheim can take online courses offered by the partner universities of the European University ENGAGE.EU as part of the Online Exchange Initiative (OEI) and take advantage of international learning environments and exchange ideas with students of various countries.

Students can apply for a maximum of three online courses per semester from the course catalogs of the partner universities and study these courses in addition to the courses they attend at the University of Mannheim. They can take exams, receive ECTS credits and, depending on the field of study, can have the courses recognized.

New! ENGAGE.EU modules as of fall semester 2022

As of the upcoming fall semester 2022, students can also take part in online modules of the partner universities. ENGAGE.EU modules deal with current societal challenges from an interdisciplinary point of view. Most of them consist of three online courses (about 15 ECTS credits) and are attended over two semesters (fall semester 2022 and spring semester 2023) parallel to the courses at the University of Mannheim. For each course a number of ECTS credits will be awarded and can, depending on the field of study, be recognized for the program at the University of Mannheim. Students who successfully complete all courses of a module receive an ENGAGE certificate.

The following applies to both programs:

Application period: 1 June to 1 July 2022

Further information: Please read the questions and answers provided on our homepage, e.g, on the recognition of courses. There you will also find the links to the central ENGAGE.EU website, where the programs offered by the partner universities can be found as of 1 June.

6. Need a job? The university is looking for student assistants

Are you looking for a flexible and challenging part-time job that can be easily combined with your studies? Then take a look at the job advertisements of the University of Mannheim and the University Library. We do not only offer jobs with a wide variety of tasks at the chairs, but also at the International Office, the Teaching and Learning Center, the University IT or the university administration. And if your favorite field is not listed here: We also welcome unsolicited applications.

7. Save-the-date: On 31 May and 23 June 2022 diversity is on the agenda

Until 2024, the University of Mannheim will undergo the diversity audit process of the Stifterverband and make diversity even more visible. We would be glad if many interested, like-minded, involved, and dedicated people join us. Therefore:

SAVE THE DATE: Kick-off of the diversity audit “Vielfalt gestalten” (Shaping diversity) on Thursday, 23 June 2022 (from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.)

The University of Mannheim will also take part in the German Diversity Day on 31 May 2022 to celebrate diversity. Further information on this event and on new networking opportunities for student parents can be found soon in the news from the Department of Equal Opportunity and Social Diversity. Visit us in the coming weeks!

8. News from the University IT (UNIT)

8.1 Cyber crime podcast

The information security team of the University IT Mannheim has published a six-part podcast series. The title of the series is “ESCAPE – Der Cyberkrimi-Podcast zur Informationssicherheit”. The podcast uses audio drama features to provide information on security threats in an entertaining way. It is only available in German.

8.2 New M365 applications available

The Planner and Whiteboard applications are now available on the separate Microsoft 365 instance for students. While Planner helps you organize your tasks and manage your projects, the digital Whiteboard allows you to visualize the ideas and results of your learning group. The instructions for all M365 applications can be found here.

8.3 Borrowing laptops

Do you need a laptop for your upcoming digital exam? UNIT and the University Library cooperate to provide laptops that students may borrow. The laptops have the latest versions of SPSS and STATA and may be borrowed at the University Library. For more information, please visit: https://www.bib.uni-mannheim.de/en/resources/borrow-request-renew/borrowing-mobile-devices/.

8.4 All IT services at a glance

On the UNIT website, you will find information about all IT services supporting your studies. In order to be able to make use of the services without any problems, we provide you with helpful instructions. If you have any questions or problems, our IT support team will be happy to assist you. For information on current malfunctions and planned maintenance work, please visit our maintenance and incidents section.

9. News from the Studierendenwerk

9.1 Clean campus

From now on, you can fill the take-away food served in the Mensa am Schloss into your own containers and thus dispense with the bagasse packaging offered by the Studierendenwerk. Two labeled refilling stations are available on site for this purpose. As a further measure to help reduce waste on campus, as of 1 June 2022, the Studierendenwerk will charge 1 euro for its packaging. The campaign runs under the motto “Mensa to Go”.

9.2 Greenes²® receives industry prize

Only recently, the Studierendenwerk Mannheim was awarded the 11th INTERNORGA Future Prize in the category “Gastronomy & Hospitality” in Hamburg for its innovative gastronomy concept “greenes² ® – mindful campus food”, which is offered in the building of the Mensa am Schloss.

9.3 Financial support under the federal training assistance act (BAföG)

In order to use BAföG Digital more effectively, students and their parents should use the eID function of the ID card.

In the event that it is not possible to submit a positive proof of performance (form 5 or Transcript of Records) despite the postponement due to the “coronavirus semesters”, a request for later submission of the proof of performance (see BAföG Service Center) must be submitted.

In the event that you have not been able to complete your degree program despite the extension of the maximum funding period due to the “coronavirus semesters”, you need to submit an application to exceed the maximum funding period (see BAföG Service Center).

9.4 Psychological counseling services

The social media series of the Psychological Counseling Services providing tips for coping with procrastination is ending these days. In the next few weeks, five tips on self-esteem will follow, then five tips on productivity – students for whom these topics are of interest are advised to subscribe to the Instagram channel of the Studierendenwerk  so as not to miss any of these postings.

9.5 Social counseling services

Changing Lanes? Students who are unsure whether they should change their degree program, subject or university, or whether studying in general is the right thing for them, are welcome to contact the social counseling services of the Studierendenwerk for advice on assistance, support, and financing options.  

9.6 Occasional jobs during the semester break

Students who plan to work during their semester break, who want to increase their current working hours, or who want to take on an additional job, are welcome to contact the social counseling services of the Studierendenwerk. There, they will receive advice and information on income and time limits as well as on the implications for health insurance, taxes, and social security benefits.
We hope that you end the semester successfully and wish you much success with your exams. Enjoy the summer!

Sincerely,

Division for Student Affairs

Dear Students,

Easter break is just around the corner and after that the return to in-person classes on campus. We are very much looking forward to having you back. From 25 to 29 April, we have planned a Welcome Back Week for you with all kinds of events. Please also remember your re-registration for the fall semester 2022/2023 and your exam registration. These and many other important news, we have compiled for you in this e-mail.

1. Current regulations to curb the coronavirus pandemic and return to campus

Last week, the university has informed you that most of the infection prevention regulations of the Land and the federal government ceased to apply on 2 April. However, the President's Office still highly recommends wearing a medical-grade or FFP2 face mask in classes, at the University Library and inside of the university buildings, particularly where the minimum distance of 1.5 meters to other people cannot be maintained (e.g., in the hallways or bathrooms). Thank you very much!

1.1 Welcome Back Week

After the Easter break, students will finally return to the Schloss and to campus to study and to learn. We would like to put a spotlight on campus life again: In the week from 25–29 April 2022, we have organized a series of events to get to know the university institutions, the student organizations and the campus (again). All workshops, guided tours, information fairs and social events are listed on this website: https://www.uni-mannheim.de/welcome-back/. Welcome back!

1.2 Student services until Easter and afterwards

Until the end of the Easter break the Student Services are available mostly via e-mail. Please note that we are not available during the break. As of 25 April 2022, we will return to campus step by step and will be available for in-person consultations if you wish to make an appointment.

2. Re-registration for the fall semester 2022/23

As of 1 May 2022 and until 15 June 2022 you can re-register for the fall semester 2022/23.

In case you would like to continue your studies at the University of Mannheim in the upcoming semester, please transfer the semester fee of EUR 194.30 and possible further tuition fees by the due date to the account of the University of Mannheim. You can print out your enrollment record in Portal² after you have re-registered. Please go to My Studies > Student Service > Certificates to download and print your records.

3. Exam registration – late registration, withdrawals and changes in registration

3.1 Exam registration, exam periods and exam forms

• Regular registration period:                                                      6 April to 20 April 2022
• Examination periods for regular examination dates:     4 June to 18 June 2022
• Examination periods for alternate examination dates: 27 August to 3 September 2022

Only if you register in due time by 20 April, we can guarantee that the exams of an examination day are planned without overlaps. Please go to our website to find a list of the individual examination dates.

The exams of the spring semester 2022 will mostly take place as in-person exams. Some courses continue to use digital forms of exams. As the registration period begins, the form of the examination is indicated in Portal².

3.2 Late registration, withdrawals and changes in registration

You can make a late registration or changes to your registrations until up to three days before the regular examination date via Portal², provided this is generally admissible for the exam in question. Withdrawals are possible up to three days prior to the respective regular or alternate examination date. For examinations that are not written exams, the deadline for late registrations and withdrawals generally ends on 27 May 2022. Once again, this semester, you can withdraw from an exam at short notice based on the special circumstances of the coronavirus pandemic. Please find all details about these regulations on web pages of the Student Services.

3.3 Getting the most out of your exam preparation – Workshop

The workshop “Lernen lernen – Prüfungsvorbereitung” / “Learn to Study – Exam Preparation” is designed to teach you about a more efficient and effective studying period. Increase your success in studying by getting tips on time management, studying journals, intelligent studying breaks and study methods.

The workshop is offered by the ZLL and is open students of all fields. If they are interested, students can also book the additional consultation hour on exam preparation.

• Workshop “Lernen lernen – Prüfungsvorbereitung” in German: Tue, 12 April 2022, 10:15 to 11:45 a.m. on Zoom, registration via Portal²
• Workshop “Learn to Study – Exam Preparation” in English: Tue, 19 April 2022, 10:15 to 11:45 a.m. on Zoom, registration via  Portal²

4. News from International Office

4.1 Application deadline for a semester abroad: 30 April

The next application deadline for a semester abroad is 30 April 2022. This deadline is for remaining spots on the Erasmus program for all schools except the Business School. Moreover, students of the bachelor’s program in Business can apply for the IBEA program with a three-semester stay abroad as of the fifth semester or the double degree Guanghua program with a four-semester stay abroad as of the fifth semester.

4.2 Study Abroad Fair

As of Monday, 4 April until Friday, 8 April 2022 the University of Mannheim hosts the Study Abroad Fair. This virtual information fair on study abroad programs for Mannheim is the perfect point to start getting information and answers to all your questions on studying abroad. The online event features information sessions hosted by the International Office and the exchange coordinators of the schools, as well as insightful presentations of several of our partner universities in order to give you an overview of the many opportunities of a stay abroad.

4.3 ENGAGE.EU Summer School in Rome

Are you interested in a two-week summer school at Luiss university in Rome? The ENGAGE.EU Summer School is an interdisciplinary forum for bachelor’s students of one of the seven ENGAGE.EU universities. Its theme is Digitalization and Challenges for European Society. In addition to the courses, participants have the opportunity to explore the historic beauty of the city during numerous social and cultural excursions. It is possible to receive Erasmus funding for the ENGAGE.EU Summer School from the University of Mannheim: The scholarship is EUR70 per day plus a possible travel grant for “green travel” (EUR50 plus 4 additional day rates). Please find further information on the websites of the International Office. Apply by 15 April via engageuniversity.eu.

4.4 FAQs on Ukraine

A website was established to provide an overview of support offers and information for those affected by the war in Ukraine as well as for Ukrainian and Russian students at the University of Mannheim.

5. Sustainability Festival at the University of Mannheim on 6 May

The Sustainability Festival celebrates and promotes sustainability in all its forms. Students, researchers, employees, organizations and companies are brought together in an interactive manner and present what is done in terms of sustainability at the university. All ideas and critical questions can be contributed at the events, talks and workshops on sustainability.

For more information go to: https://www.uni-mannheim.de/en/news/sustainability-festival/

6. Updates from the University Library

From Sunday 3 April, 3G proof is no longer required to visit the University Library. In addition, masks are no longer mandatory inside the University Library. However, we still strongly recommend that all users wear a medical-grade or FFP2 face mask. Seats at the subject libraries are available again without restrictions. The established protection zones in the subject libraries, however, remain in place. Here, you can continue to study and work at a safety distance to others.

7. News from the Studierendenwerk

7.1 Infothek online sessions ­­­– upcoming events

The event series InfothekOnline is designed for students who would like to get informed on a regular basis on the advice and service programs of the Studierendenwerk Mannheim. The monthly online event taking place throughout the semester always has different central theme. The InfothekOnline sessions are advertised through social media. Propose your own topics or ask questions via the comment sections. Further questions can be asked via chat after the event. Registration is not required.

Upcoming events

• Tue, 26 April 2022 at 4 p.m.: Psychological Counseling Services (PBS): Tips on the exams (part 1) on Zoom
• Tue, 17 April 2022 at 4 p.m.: Psychological Counseling Services (PBS): Tips on the exams (part 2) on Zoom

7.2 Federal student aid (BAFöG)

The subsidies for heating expenses were doubled (EUR230) and will be paid without further requests. Other modalities are not yet communicated.

7.3 Financing your studies ­– proofs required for KfW student loans due 15 April 2022

Recipients of a KfW student loan (KfW-Studienkredit) need to present their proof of enrollment by 15 April 2022. The proofs can be presented to the Social Counseling Services or at the Infothek in the Mensa. For any questions, please refer to https://www.stw-ma.de/en/Counseling+_+Service/Counseling+Service.html

We wish you a successful semester and all the best for preparing and taking your exams. Please watch out for one another!

We will probably send you the next e-mail with information on classes and examinations at the end of May.

Sincerely,

Division for Student Affairs

Dear Students,

Most of the statutory regulations on infection prevention on the federal and state level expire on 2 April. However, the infection rates are still very high. The University of Mannheim has decided on the following regulations that will apply as of 3 April 2022:

Wearing masks in university buildings
The President's Office still recommends wearing a surgical face mask or an FFP2 face mask in courses, communal rooms, circulation areas (corridors, bathrooms etc.) and when the minimum distance of 1.5 meters to other people cannot be maintained.  A face mask protects you, your fellow students and your teachers, who – as speakers – usually cannot wear a face mask. If each and every one of you continues to wear their face masks voluntarily, the risk of infection is lowered significantly – and thereby the risk that in-person classes need to be canceled. FFP2 masks provide a much higher level of protection than surgical masks.

Closing of the Classroom Pass Center
As of 3 April, participants in classes are no longer required to present 3G proofs. The Classroom Pass Center (CPC) will close on 2 April. The data stored will be deleted in accordance with statutory regulations.

We kindly ask you to do your part, in order for everyone to feel safe on campus. Watch out for one another and take care.

Kind regards,

Yours sincerely,

Barbara Windscheid                                    Prof. Dr. Thomas Puhl
Executive Vice President                             President

Dear Students,

The fall semester is about to end and this means that the Classroom Passes are about to expire. In the last few days, the Land of Baden-Württemberg and the Robert Koch Institute have amended some of the coronavirus regulations. These changes also affect the operations at the University of Mannheim. Please find an overview on the most important updates below:

Renewing your Classroom Pass
When the new semester begins, the Classroom Passes issued during the fall semester 2021/2022 will no longer be valid. What do you have to do in order to continue to work or study on campus?

Step 1:Please renew your consent to the storage of your data in Checkin by clicking on the button “Renew your consent“ in the “Show my data” tab. You need to renew your consent until 31 January. In order to renew your Classroom Pass, you need to go to the Classroom Pass Center once again, even if you are vaccinated against or have recovered from Covid-19 (see step 2).

Step 2: Starting 1 February, anyone who works or studies on campus will have to have their 3G proof verified again at the Classroom Pass Center. To avoid long waiting times at the Classroom Pass Center, there will be a transition period for the renewal of the Classroom Pass. Please have your 3G proof verified on the first day you work or study on campus. This should be done by 28 February at the latest. Please note that in order to renew your digital Classroom Pass in the future, it will be necessary to store additional data (see “Prerequisites for renewing your digital Classroom Pass”).

Prerequisites for renewing your digital Classroom Pass:As you may have read in the media, the Robert Koch Institute has reduced the period of validity of the status as a person who has recovered from COVID-19 from six to three months. In addition, anyone vaccinated with the vector vaccine from Johnson & Johnson will only be considered to have initial COVID-19 immunization if they have been vaccinated the second time with another vaccine. Due to these changes, it will be necessary in the future to document your basic type of immunization (e.g. “recovered”, “vaccinated”, or “recovered and vaccinated”) and the date of immunization in order to be able to reliably calculate the period of validity of your digital Classroom Pass and adapt it to future legal changes. These important data are stored as sparingly as possible and will of course not be displayed in the Classroom Pass. When visiting the Classroom Pass Center, you can decide for yourself whether or not you consent to the storage of the above-mentioned data. If you do not agree to the storage of such data, you will receive a hard copy Classroom Pass with a validity period of 24 hours. In this case, it is not possible to issue a digital Classroom Pass.

Since we expect that Germany is going to implement the new provisions of the EU according to which individuals who have received initial immunization will no longer be considered to have been fully vaccinated after nine months, you have the option of having your booster shot entered in the system right now. This, however, is voluntary. This would have the advantage that you would not have to visit the Classroom Pass Center again after the new EU provision has been implemented. 

All these regulations and options are intended to help ensure that you need to visit the Classroom Pass Center as seldom as possible in order to have your digital 3G proof adjusted.

If you have any questions regarding the renewal of your Classroom Pass, the team of the Classroom Pass Center will be happy to answer them via e-mail.

Please take care and stay healthy!

Kind regards,

Your Task Force

Dear Students,

We hope that you have started the new year well. In today’s e-mail, we want to provide you with important information on the upcoming semester and the alternate examination dates.

1. Classes in the spring semester

The current pandemic situation requires us to change our plans for the spring semester 2022. In general, the spring semester 2022 will be an on-campus semester, as already announced in the fall semester 2021/2022.  Upon consultation with the deans for student affairs and the student representatives, the President's Office has decided to make the following adjustments:

We want to ensure that classes can be held, but we also want to protect us all against infection. Classes that take place until 8 April 2022 may be held in person or digitally. The teachers will take the individual framework conditions (type of class, number of participants, room situation, infection rates and quarantine situation among the participants) into account when deciding if the class will be held on campus or digitally. They will inform you if there are changes to the plan for your class. Please check the inbox of your university e-mail account regularly and go to Portal² to check the course details section, particularly the information on the individual classes and the notes regarding the classes, in order to find out about changes at short notice. Please note that the information on the form of participation might not apply for each individual class in the spring semester and that there might be changes that apply to individual dates.

If your class is held on campus and you are unable to attend (e.g. due to quarantine or isolation), we will ensure that you are able to continue your studies without restraints by providing you with alternative offers.

As of 25 April 2022, classes will generally be held on campus again.

If you encounter problems with the implementation of these regulations, please do not hesitate to contact student representatives of AStA and the student representatives council (by sending a message to corona-lehremail-vs-uni-mannheim.de). If required, they can forward your concern in anonymized form to the President’s Office.

2. Mask mandate in all university buildings and the University Library

We would like to remind you of the new mandate to wear a FFP2 face mask. Until further notice, wearing FFP2 face masks or similar masks, for example masks that comply with the standards KN95, N95, KF94, KF95, is mandatory in university buildings. This also applies to on-campus classes and the libraries. During examinations, students may remove their masks when seated.

3. Classroom Pass

We are currently working on finding a simple solution for extending the validity of the Classroom Pass for those who are vaccinated against or have recovered from Covid-19. You will receive more information on the process as soon as we have discussed the parameters with the authorities.

As always, you can find the latest and most important Covid-19 related information for our students on our website. Please check this website at regular intervals.

4. Alternate examination dates and exam organization

The alternate examination dates for the fall semester 2021/2022 will take place from 5 to 12 February 2022. The exam schedule for the regular examination dates with exam times and form of examination is published here.

For participation in on-campus exams a 3G proof in the form of a valid Classroom Pass is mandatory. Furthermore, you have to check in via Checkin before entering the room. One week prior to your examination, the seat you have been assigned in the exam room will be displayed in Portal². We have compiled all important information for you on our pages on the current coronavirus pandemic.

If you are preparing for an online exam (take home exam or live online exam), you will find all necessary information on ILIAS.

Just like in the last semester, you can withdraw from an exam up to three days before the exam, if you registered for the alternate examination date yourself. On our website, we provide you with information on everything you need to know about de-registrations and withdrawals from examinations.

5. Exam registration in the spring semester 2022

In the spring semester 2022, the MMM program has an early registration period from 2 to 16 March 2022  for module examinations in the subject areas Core Competences, Business Economics, and Business Administration.

The general registration period is from 4 April until 20 April 2022.

6. Updates from the University Library

In the next semester, the University Library will again offer a series of courses on academic writing and research, data literacy, reference management, and subject-specific research for students at the higher education institutions in Mannheim. Find out about the program for the spring semester 2022 and register for the online courses in Portal².

7. Information from the Institute of Sports

If you would like to attend the sports program in the spring semester 2022, you must book a SportsCard on the homepage of the Institute of Sports. For students of the University of Mannheim, the Sportscard is free of charge.

In the spring semester 2022, access to the gym in D2 is free of charge for students and employees of the University of Mannheim and the cooperating higher education institutions, no SportsCard is required. However, in order to comply with the present distance regulations and access restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic, it is necessary to book an individual training slot before visiting the gym.

8. Overview of the IT services

On the UNIT website, you will find information about all IT services supporting your studies. In order to be able to make use of the services without any problems, we provide you with helpful instructions . If you have any questions or problems, our IT support team will be happy to assist you. For information on current malfunctions and planned maintenance work, please visit our maintenance and incidents section.

9. News from the Studierendenwerk

You can now book appointments online with the Social Counseling Services. Get information and counseling on financing your studies, jobs, social security, social benefits, managing studies and parenting or studying with a disability.

The Psychological Counseling Services (PBS) of the Studierendenwerk are available for you if you need to talk about study-related or personal issues. Next to in-person counseling, there is also the option of video or telephone calls.  Please make sure to contact the PBS early on due to the high demand for counseling services. The social media channels of the Studierendenwerk offer regular posting series – currently on constructive communication in shared apartments. As of 21 February, posts will be all about how to cope with procrastination.

Important reminder for recipients of a KfW student loan (KfW-Studienkredit):Please remember to provide the Studierendenwerk with the relevant documents for your next payment (proof of credits earned, copy of your ID card, enrollment certificate). Further information can be found at: www.stw-ma.de/sozialberatung.

The new culinary concept greenes² – mindful campus food focuses on sustainability and regional sourcing of organic and authentic products. The coffee on the menu is the first of many carbon-neutral products that are to follow, for which a Product Carbon Footprint was determined. For this, all greenhouse gas emissions of the entire life cycle of the product were identified and compensated for.

10. Jobs in helping to overcome the consequences of the pandemic

The Ministry of Science, Research and Arts and the Ministry of Social Affairs of Baden-Württemberg would like to draw your attention to the Match4Healthcare platform. Via this platform, students interested in helping out a laboratory conducting PCR tests for Covid-19 can register themselves to work for a lab. Not only students of medicine are sought after. All persons with experience in health care, e.g. former volunteers etc. can register.

The Lernen mit Rückenwind program of the Ministry of Education is continuing in the upcoming semester. This program addresses pupils who fell behind in school due to the pandemic. Students of a master’s of education who participate in this program have the possibility to reflect on their experience as part of a service-learning seminar, Kompetent in die Praxis, and can also receive ECTS credits for this.

We wish you the best of luck for the upcoming exams and a great start to the new semester.

Kind regards – and please stay healthy!
Division II – Student Affairs