Changing Studies
Changing your course of study, moving to a different university: What foreign students have to consider concerning their residence permit.

Are you pursuing academic studies but would like to change your course or move to a different university?
If so, please note the following points:
  It is normally possible to change your course once up to the third semester, i.e. before the start of the fourth semester. Please note that your change or move requires the consent of the Foreigners Office.

  Are your pursuing academic studies, have already reached the fourth semester or higher and would like to change your course or move to a different university?
  Please note that changes at this stage of your studies are possible only in exceptional cases and require the consent of the Foreigners Office.

Changes up to and including the third semester:

Current certificate of admission to a university

Proof of academic performance to date (e.g. certificates, grades)

Additional documents may be required in isolated cases.
Changes after the fourth semester has started or after a delay in study preparations:

An application form for a residence permit (PDF, 244 KB)

 (completed in full)

A valid passport

A recent biometric passport photograph (photo booths are available at the Foreigners Office)

An explanation of your reasons for wanting to change

Proof of all academic performance to date (e.g. certificates, grades)

An outline of how you plan to continue your studies

Documentary proof that your studies/ performance to date will be taken into account on your new course/ at the new university

A statement by the Examinations Office/ International Students Office on the past and future course of your academic studies

Proof of adequate health insurance

Proof of adequate funding to cover your cost of living

A valid certificate of enrollment at university

Additional documents may be required in isolated cases.

Changes up to and including the third semester:
  Please report your change of course/ university to the Foreigners Office without delay – at the latest within 14 days after enrolling for your new course/ at the new university. After approving your change of studies/ university, the Foreigners Office will also amend the terms of your residence. The residence permit already granted to you remains valid.
Changes after the fourth semester has started or after a delay in study preparations:
  Please note that changes at this stage of your studies are possible only in exceptional cases and require the consent of the Foreigners Office. Please report your change of course/ university to the Foreigners Office without delay – at the latest within 14 days.

You will be charged the following fees if you need to change or renew your terms of residence:
Change of course/ university and change of your terms of residence: 30 euros
Change of course/ university and simultaneous renewal of your residence permit: 90 euros