Campus
dictionary

• Akademisches Viertel (Academic quarter of an hour)
  This refers to the fact that lectures usually start 15 minutes later than the scheduled time and not on the hour – which is helpful if you are late.
   
• Alma mater
  A historical term, derived from Latin, for the university where you are studying or have studied – your academic 'mother'.
   
• Alumni
  Former students of a university.
  Singular: alumnus or alumna.
   
• Anwesenheitspflicht (Compulsory attendance)
  For some courses, such as seminars or internships, it is essential that you attend regularly in order to receive credits.
   
• Audimax
  This is the largest lecture hall on campus – ideal for huge lectures that can accommodate all students. At TU Dresden, for example, there is the Auditorium Centre (HSZ) on Bergstraße and at Leipzig University there is the Augusteum on Augustusplatz.
   
• Aufbaumodul (Advanced module)
  A course that builds on the basics – usually at master’s level – if you want to deepen your knowledge.
   
• Auswahlverfahren (Selection procedure)
  The process by which students are selected for certain degree programmes (e.g. medicine). In Saxony, this is often done via the NC or a special procedure.

• Bachelor (Bachelor’s degree)
  The bachelor’s degree is the first academic degree you can obtain at a university in Saxony. It usually takes three to four years and you can choose to focus on one major or pursue a combined bachelor’s degree in two subjects at the same time. It is a prerequisite for a master’s degree.
   
• BAföG
  The Federal Training Assistance Act (BAföG) is a state financial aid programme that supports you if your parents are unable to finance your studies themselves. Half of BAföG is awarded as a grant and the other half as an interest-free loan. The amount of funding depends on the income of your parents or spouse and your own income. Since the 2024/25 winter semester, the maximum BAföG rate has been €992, provided you do not live with your parents and are no longer eligible for family insurance. You can apply for this support at your Studentenwerk (Student Services).

• Campus
  The campus is where you will spend almost as much time as you do at home. As a rule, you will find everything a student could wish for here: from lecture theatres to cafés to canteens.
   
• Careers service
  This is not just about asking yourself 'What do I want to be when I grow up?' but also about how to find your way in the world of work after graduation. The Careers Service Centres offer workshops, application tips, contacts to companies and often also a huge job board.
  
  The Careers Service Centre at your university can help you when it comes to entering the world of work.
   
• Credit Points (ECTS)
  ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System) credits are magic points that help you to prove that you have really worked hard during your studies. Each course and each piece of work earns you a certain number of ECTS points, which you collect in order to successfully complete your degree programme. In a bachelor’s degree programme in Saxony, this is usually 180 to 240 credits.
   
• Cum laude
  If you graduate 'cum laude' at the end of your degree programme, this means that you have graduated with very good (i.e. outstanding) results.
   
• Cum tempore (c.t.)
  'Cum tempore' or c.t. is the official way of saying 'with a little delay' at university. It means that the lecture will not start on time, but about 15 minutes later – something that's perfectly acceptable for many students.

• Dekan/Dekanin (Dean)
  The dean is the head of your department and ensures that the degree programmes run smoothly, new curricula are developed and that everyone follows the rules.
   
• Diplom
  Before the Bachelor’s degree was introduced, the Diplom was the standard qualification at many German universities. In Saxony, it is still awarded in some fields of study, particularly in technical and engineering subjects, but also in the arts. Diplom degrees not only have an excellent reputation, they are of course fully recognised internationally and are equivalent to master’s degrees.
   
• Dissertation
  The dissertation is the final step on the path to a doctorate. It is a comprehensive and independently conducted research project that delivers new academic findings.
   
• Doktorarbeit (Doctoral thesis)
  The doctoral thesis is the holy grail for many students – or the greatest challenge of your academic life. Saxony offers you the opportunity to pursue a doctoral degree at various universities.
   
• Dozent/Dozentin (Lecturer)
  The lecturer is the person who stands between you and your degree. Sometimes friendly, sometimes more of a 'strict type', but always important for your studies. You can look forward to a great mix in Saxony: from professors who are like walking encyclopaedias to lecturers who bring every lecture to life with their practical tips and dedication.
   
• Diversität (Diversity)
  Diversity is highly valued at universities in Saxony. Different cultures, experiences and perspectives enrich the study experience and ensure vibrant exchanges. There are numerous initiatives and events that promote intercultural dialogue and bring together students from all over the world.
   
• Duale Hochschule Sachsen (Saxony Cooperative State University)
  The Saxony Cooperative State University (DHSN) is an educational institution with seven locations that combines theory and practice in a unique way. Students complete a dual study programme, which means that they regularly alternate between theoretical phases at the university and practical phases in companies. The Saxony Cooperative State University cooperates with numerous companies in the region, thus offering close exchange between academia and industry.
   
• Durchfallquote (Failure rate)
  The failure rate refers to the moment that every student would prefer not to think about, but cannot completely escape. It indicates how many students have failed an exam.

• ECTS (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System)
  The ECTS is a system that divides your degree programme into units that are comparable throughout Europe. 1 ECTS point generally corresponds to a workload of 25 to 30 hours. In Saxony, the ECTS system is used at all universities.
   
• ehs
  This stands for the Protestant University of Applied Sciences Dresden, otherwise known as the EHS University of Applied Sciences for Social Work, Education and Nursing. It’s not just knowledge that is imparted here, but also a great deal of compassion and charity. Your studies will focus on social work, care and how you can support people in different life situations. You don’t have to be Protestant to enrol here.
   
• Eignungsprüfung (Aptitude test)
  An aptitude test is a process used to assess whether you meet the necessary requirements for a particular degree programme. Such tests are often required in artistic, sporting or specialised fields such as architecture or music.
   
• Einschreibung (Enrolment)
  Enrolment or matriculation makes you an official member of the university and gives you access to all the necessary resources, from your student ID card to registration for lectures and exams. In Saxony, you usually have to re-enrol once a year.
   
• Einschreibefristen (Enrolment deadlines)
  These are the periods during which you can register for the next semester or degree programme. In Saxony, there are clear deadlines for enrolment that you should not miss. The deadlines vary depending on the university and semester, so it is advisable to check your university’s website in good time.
   
• Erasmus
  Erasmus is the European Union’s exchange programme that gives you the opportunity to spend one or two semesters at a university in another European country.
   
• Ersti (Fresher)
  Freshers, or Erstis, are first-year students who have just arrived on campus. In Saxony, there are numerous events every year for you and like-minded people to introduce you to university life: from campus tours to pub evenings, where you can enjoy your first university coffee and maybe even make a new friend or two.
   
• Evaluation
  Evaluation is the process by which students assess their courses and lecturers. In Saxony, it is customary for you to give feedback on the courses at the end of the semester – both on the content and the quality of teaching.
   
• Examen
  The Examen is the decisive final assessment in some degree programmes, especially in law, medicine or teacher training. It is often the final block of exams, after which you officially complete your studies and, depending on the subject area, receive the title 'State Examination'.
   
• Exmatrikulation (De-registration)
  De-registration is the official act by which you leave the university – either because you have successfully completed your studies or because you are ending them prematurely.
   
• Exzellenzcluster (Clusters of Excellence)
  These are research alliances that are funded by the federal and state governments as part of the Excellence Strategy. There are six Clusters of Excellence in Saxony, ranging from physics to medicine.
  
  Leipzig University and TU Dresden were awarded a total of six Clusters of Excellence in 2025. Among these, TU Dresden received two new Clusters of Excellence and Leipzig University received one for the first time.
   
• Exzellenz-Universität (University of Excellence)
  TU Dresden is one of the eleven Universities of Excellence in Germany.

• Fachbereich (Department)
  A department is a division of a university that specialises in a particular subject area. There are numerous departments in Saxony, ranging from engineering and the humanities to natural and social sciences.
   
• Fachsemester (Degree semester)
  This indicates how long you have already spent on your degree programme. Only the semester in which you are actually enrolled in your degree programme counts.
   
• Fachschaft (Departmental committee)
  The departmental committee is the student representative body for a department or faculty. This is where students can get involved on behalf of their fellow students, organise events and provide support with questions relating to their studies. The departmental committee is also a great place to meet new people.

• Grundstudium (Foundation programme)
  This is the first step in your degree programme. It lays the foundation for the specialised knowledge you will need for your further studies.
   
• Graduierung (Graduation)
  Graduation is the formal conclusion of your degree programme. In Saxony, many programmes conclude with a formal ceremony and presentation of a degree certificate. Graduation marks the moment when you have officially completed your studies and are now a fully-fledged graduate.

• Habilitation
  Habilitation is the final step on the path to a professorship. In Saxony, it is recognised as an academic achievement that goes beyond the doctoral degree. It is a prerequisite for obtaining a teaching licence at universities and for giving lectures yourself.
   
• Hausarbeit (Term paper)
  A term paper is the standard academic assignment written during a degree programme. It is somewhat shorter than a bachelor’s thesis, but often requires intensive research and a lot of personal work.
   
• Hiwi
  Hiwi is the abbreviation for 'Hilfswissenschaftler' (research assistant). In Saxony, many students have the opportunity to work as a Hiwi on research projects, in teaching or in administrative tasks. It’s a great opportunity not only to earn a bit of money on the side, but also to gain valuable practical experience.
   
• Hochschule für angewandte Wissenschaften (University of applied sciences)
  Would you like to study in a practice-oriented way and prepare yourself directly for the job market? Then a university of applied sciences in Saxony could be just right for you. These universities offer a wide range of degree programmes that are particularly practice-oriented and geared towards the needs of business and industry. Whether engineering, economics, computer science or design, you’ll not only gain theoretical knowledge, but also learn how to apply this knowledge in the real world.
  
  There are five universities of applied sciences in Saxony: Leipzig University of Applied Sciences (HTWK), Mittweida University of Applied Sciences, Dresden University of Applied Sciences (HTWD), the University of Applied Sciences Zwickau (WHZ) and Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences (HSZG). These institutions place particular emphasis on ensuring that their students not only excel in theory, but also demonstrate their skills in practice.
   
• Hochschulgesetz (Higher Education Act)
  The Higher Education Act is the legal basis governing the structures, organisation and studies at universities. In Saxony, this is regulated by the Saxon Higher Education Act.
   
• Hochschulreife (Higher education entrance qualification)
  A university entrance qualification is the key to studying at university. In Saxony, you will usually obtain this qualification through the Abitur (general higher education entrance qualification), but alternative routes such as the Fachhochschulreife (entrance qualification for studies at a university of applied sciences) can also give you access to higher education.
   
• Hochschulsport (University sports)
  This is the perfect way to stay fit during your studies. From volleyball and football to yoga and climbing, many universities offer a wide range of sports to choose from. University sports not only keep you physically fit, but are also a great way to meet new people.
   
• Hörsaal (Lecture theatre)
  The lecture theatre is where lectures take place and where you sit spellbound, listening to your lecturers’ explanations.
   
• Hybridveranstaltung (Hybrid event)
  Describes a lecture or course that can be attended both in person and online.

• Immatrikulation (Matriculation)
  Matriculation – more commonly known as enrolment – is the first step in your academic adventure. It means registering at a university and is a prerequisite for being officially recognised as a student. You will receive a certificate of enrolment – the first official 'ID' for your studies.
   
• Institut (Institute)
  An institute is an academic organisation within a university that deals with a specific subject area or topic. There are a number of institutes in Saxony that offer research and teaching, such as the Institute for Applied Linguistics at Leipzig University or the Institute for Business Administration at the University of Applied Sciences Zwickau (WHZ).

• Jobmesse (Job fair)
  Job fairs are the perfect opportunity for students to make contact with companies and find out about opportunities after graduation. Job fairs are held regularly in cities such as Dresden, Leipzig and Chemnitz, where companies from the region and beyond present their job vacancies.

• Kanzler/Kanzlerin (Chancellor)
  The chancellor is essentially the 'super manager' of the university. While the rector is responsible for academic matters, the chancellor takes care of finances, administration and everything that goes on behind the scenes.
   
• Kolloquium (Colloquium)
  A colloquium is a type of oral examination or academic discussion that plays an important role in many degree programmes.
   
• Kommilitone/Kommilitonin (Fellow student)
  Kommilitonen are your fellow students – people who are in the same boat as you. You will navigate exam stress, group work and coffee breaks together.
   
• Kunst- und Musikhochschule (University of arts and music)
  If you are one of those creative minds who feel at home in art or music, then a university of arts or music in Saxony is just the place for you. These universities offer a wide range of programmes covering artistic disciplines such as painting, sculpture and design, as well as musical fields such as orchestral music, composition and singing.
  
  Saxony is home to renowned institutions such as:
  die Hochschule für Musik und Theater „Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy” Leipzig (HMT),
  die University of Music Carl Maria von Weber Dresden,
  die Academy of Fine Arts Leipzig,
  die College of Fine Arts, Dresden und
  die Palucca University of Dance Dresden.

• Latinum
  The Latinum is a special language qualification that you have to demonstrate in many degree programmes, especially if you are studying history, philosophy or other humanities subjects. It consists of a basic knowledge of the Latin language, which you can acquire either by taking a special examination or by attending appropriate language courses.
   
• Langzeitstudiengebühren (Long-term study fees)
  The little sting in your studies that rears its head when you significantly exceed the standard period of study. Normally, you have a certain number of semesters to complete your degree. However, if your studies extend beyond this time, long-term study fees may be payable.
  In Saxony, a long-term study fee of 500 euros per semester is charged if the standard period of study is exceeded by four semesters.

• Master (Master’s degree)
  The master’s degree is the second academic qualification that you can obtain after completing a bachelor’s degree. It deepens your knowledge in a specific subject area and opens the door to specialised professions or an academic career.
   
• Mensa (Canteen)
  The canteen is where hungry students can recharge their batteries during the day. It is often the central meeting place for a quick lunch between lectures.
   
• Mentoring
  This is a valuable support service available during your studies. In a mentoring programme, you will be supervised by experienced students or alumni who will be on hand to offer advice and support.
   
• Modul (Module)
  In a module, various courses (Lehrveranstaltungen) are combined into one overarching topic. This means that you do not just attend a single lecture or seminar, but rather a complete subject package that ends with an examination or other form of assessment.
   
• Module handbook
  This handbook is like your personal study guide. In it, you will find a detailed overview of the modules on your degree programme, including the content, examination formats, ECTS credits and requirements.

• Numerus clausus (NC)
  The numerus clausus is a system of admission restrictions used for particularly popular degree programmes. It means that only a certain number of students can be accepted, based on their Abitur grades or other criteria. In Saxony, there are many programmes with NC, but also many without.

• OPAL
  This is the online portal that makes studying in Saxony easier for you. On it, you can find all kinds of learning materials, upload assignments, take part in courses and exchange ideas with fellow students. In short, OPAL is your digital hub for bringing a little more order to the chaos of your studies.
   
• Orientierungswoche (Orientation week)
  Starting university can be overwhelming, which is why there’s an orientation week to help you get to know the campus, discover the city and meet your fellow students. This week is a great opportunity for first-year students to make their first contacts and get important information about their studies.
  
   

• Pflichtpraktikum (Compulsory internship)
  The compulsory internship is an important part of many degree programmes, helping you to gain practical experience and apply your theoretical knowledge in the real world.
   
• Präsenzpflicht (Compulsory attendance)
  Compulsory attendance refers to the obligation to be present in person at certain classes (e.g. seminars or lectures).
   
• Prüfungsordnung (Examination regulations)
  The examination regulations govern everything related to examinations: from registration and deregistration to requirements and deadlines. They form the basis for the organisation of examinations and ensure that everything runs fairly and transparently.
   
• Prüfung (Examination)
  Exams are simply part and parcel of studying. They are your chance to show what you have learnt over the past weeks and months. In Saxony, there are different types of examinations: from traditional written exams to oral exams and term papers and internship reports.
   
• Prüfungsamt (Examination Office)
  The Examination Office is the central point of contact for everything relating to examinations. Here you can register for examinations, view the examination regulations and enquire about any problems with examinations or grades.
   
• Promotion (Doctorate)
  A doctorate is the path you take if you want to earn the title 'Dr'. To do so, you will write a dissertation and defend your research.

• Quereinstieg (Lateral entry)
  Lateral entry is an option for people who would like to start studying a different subject than the one they originally planned. In Saxony, there are various programmes and opportunities to switch to a new degree programme – even if you have been trained in a different field or already have professional experience.

• Rechenzentrum (Computer centre)
  The computer centre at a university ensures that all digital systems run smoothly, from Wi-Fi and computer pools to software and technical support. Here you will find everything you need for your studies in terms of IT equipment and services.
   
• Regelstudienzeit (Standard period of study)
  This is the official length of time that a degree programme is expected to take according to the study regulations. In Saxony, the standard period of study varies depending on the degree programme and the qualification – as a rule, it is six to seven semesters for a bachelor’s degree and two to four semesters for a master’s degree.
   
• Rektor/Rektorin (Rector or President)
  The rector – sometimes referred to as the president – is the highest-ranking executive of a university and is responsible for managing the entire institution. He or she ensures that the university pursues its strategic goals, that teaching is well organised and that research is promoted. The rector often also has representative duties and acts as the university’s public face.
   
• Ringvorlesung (Lecture series)
  This is a special type of event at universities in which various experts from different departments or institutions give lectures on a specific topic. Lecture series are a great opportunity to look beyond the boundaries of your own degree programme.

• Semesterbeitrag (Semester fee)
  This is the fee you pay once a semester to maintain your studies – and no, it’s not a voluntary donation to your university, but a necessity so that you can continue to enjoy the wonderful student life. The semester fee includes things like the student services fee, the semester ticket, which some universities offer, and administrative costs. Don’t panic, Saxony’s universities have kept it fairly low.
   
• Semester ticket
  Many universities in Saxony issue a semester ticket as part of your semester fee. Whether by train, bus or tram, this ticket allows you to travel easily through the towns and cities and even into the beautiful Saxon countryside.
   
• Semesterwochenstunden (SWS) (Semester hours per week)
  This is the number of hours you spend in lectures and seminars each week.
   
• Seminar
  A class format that requires more interaction than a lecture. There is no frontal monologue, but rather a joint discussion and presentation.
   
• Sommersemester (Summer semester)
  The semester that traditionally runs between April and September. If you study in the summer, you will experience campus life in all its glory: barbecues, open-air events and plenty of sunshine. But be careful: the summer semester is also often when your first exams take place, so don’t relax too much – a bit of studying is part of the deal.
   
• Sprechstunde (Office hours)
  The sacred hours during which you can ask your professor questions directly.
   
• Staatsexamen (State examination)
  An academic examination that marks the end of a programme of study for many students and provides access to certain professions: human medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, food chemistry, law, teaching.
   
• Stipendium (Scholarship)
  For students who need additional financial support and/or have demonstrated outstanding achievement. There are a number of funding options available in Saxony, for example from the universities themselves, from party-affiliated foundations, religious institutions or business-related organisations. Before you apply for a scholarship, you should find out as much information as you can, as the selection criteria are strict and there is no general entitlement to funding.
   
• Studentenausweis (Student ID card)
  Your student ID is more than just a little plastic card – it’s your ticket to almost everything student life has to offer. In Saxony, the student ID card is not only important to prove that you are actually enrolled, but it also has practical advantages: you can use it to get discounts at museums, cinemas and on public transport.
   
• Studieneinführungstage (SET) (Study orientation Days)
  The first days of the semester are designed to help first-year students find their feet at university. During this time, you will be introduced to everything you need to know as a student, from using the library to the best cafés on campus.
   
• Studierendenrat (StuRa) (Student Council)
  The Student Council is responsible for representing the interests of students vis-à-vis the university. It organises events, helps with problems and ensures that students are heard. Join in if you want to have a say!
   
• Studentenwerk
  The Studentenwerk (Student Services) is the institution that provides support for students in Saxony on many levels, from affordable canteen meals and support in finding accommodation to advice on financial or personal matters.
   
• Studentenwohnheim (Student hall of residence)
  A student hall of residence is where many students set up their first home during their studies. Saxony's student halls provide affordable rooms.

• Technische Universität (TU) (Technical University)
  A technical university is the dream of many aspiring engineers, scientists and computer scientists. Saxony is home to TU Dresden, Chemnitz University of Technology (TUC) and Freiberg University of Mining and Technology (TU Bergakademie Freiberg). A TU is largely (but not exclusively) geared towards technical and scientific degree programmes. You can study highly complex subjects such as mechanical engineering, computer science, civil engineering or physics.
   
• Tutorium (Tutorial)
  The tutorial is your chance to deepen your understanding of the material in a relaxed setting. These are smaller groups, usually led by advanced students or even doctoral candidates, who will support you with the content of a course.

• Universität (University)
  The university is the sacred place of knowledge where you immerse yourself in your studies, push your brain cells to their limits and embark on the adventure of 'academic life'. There are many great universities in Saxony: Leipzig University, TU Dresden, Chemnitz University of Technology (TUC) and the Freiberg University of Mining and Technology (TU Bergakademie Freiberg).
   
• Universitätsbibliothek (Hochschulbibliothek) (University library or academic library)
  The library is where you’ll spend a significant amount of time preparing for your upcoming exams, term papers and theses. In Saxony, libraries such as the Saxon State and University Library in Dresden (SLUB) are well equipped and offer not only thousands of books, reading rooms and quiet corners to work in, but also electronic resources. You will find that the library becomes your 'second home' in the weeks leading up to exams.
   
• Übung (Exercise)
  An exercise is a type of class that usually takes place in small groups. It allows you to apply what you have learned in the lecture in practical tasks and exercises.
   

• Vorlesung (Lecture)
  The lecture is the classic form of imparting knowledge at a university. You’ll sit with your fellow students in a (usually large) lecture theatre while the professor introduces you to a specific topic.
   
• Verwaltungshochschulen (Universities of administrative sciences)
  Universities of administrative sciences are specialised universities that offer degree programmes geared towards the public sector. There are two central institutions in Saxony: Meissen University of Applied Sciences and Further Education Centre, where you can study administrative sciences, tax administration or administration of justice, for example, and the University of Applied Police Sciences Saxony in Rothenburg, which prepares students for a career in the police force.
  Universities of administrative sciences are typically very practice-oriented: many programmes are organised on a dual basis and include fixed practical phases in public authorities or offices. A salary during your studies is also often part of the concept.

• Wahlpflichtfach (Elective)
  An elective is a subject that you have to take as part of your degree programme, but you can choose between different courses or modules.
   
• Werkstudent/Werkstudentin (Working student)
  A working student is someone who works in a company during their studies in order to gain practical experience and earn some money. Working student jobs are very common in Saxony.
   
• Winter semester
  The winter semester marks the beginning of a new academic year and usually begins in October. Many degree programmes start in the winter semester.
   
• Wissenschaftliche Arbeit (Academic paper)
  An academic paper – be it a term paper, a bachelor’s thesis or a master’s thesis – requires you to engage intensively with a topic, conduct academic research and present your findings clearly and precisely.

Sorry!

• Zugangsvoraussetzungen (Admission requirements)
  Before you can begin your studies at a Saxon university, you must meet certain admission requirements.
   
• Zulassungsverfahren (Admission procedure)
  The admission procedure is the process by which you are officially admitted to a degree programme at a university. After you have applied, the university will decide whether you will be offered a place on your chosen programme based on the admission requirements and any other criteria (such as selection interviews or tests). There are specific admission procedures for degree programmes that are in high demand.