Introduction and start of studies

There is not just one introductory event at the University of Kassel. Rather, there is an extensive range of different "organizers":

• On the one hand, the departments offer an official program. This type of introduction is about the subject: What is the subject about? What specializations are offered in Kassel? Which Professors and subject areas determine the content? So: be sure to attend and ask questions!
• For some (not all) degree programs and subjects, we recommend attending preliminary courses. Pre-courses are aimed at first-year students who would like to refresh their knowledge in certain subjects. The preliminary courses start before the introductory dates.
• The student councils often also offer introductory events. The student council is part of the student self-organization and deals with the specific questions of the students of a department. In terms of content, it deals with questions about the course of studies, the organization of the curriculum, learning organization and examinations. The student councils therefore offer help on how best to study this subject.
• There are also "welcome events": First semester welcome, offers for students with children, offers for international students.

Important terms explained

Overview of Orientation Week

Orientation Week runs from Thursday, October 8, to Tuesday, October 13, 2026. The program includes information about the degree program, group activities, time to get to know one another, and various social events. Study-related information will be provided, particularly during small-group sessions.

Thursday, October 8, 2026

• 2:00–4:00 p.m.: Introduction and welcome in Lecture Hall 1, Diagonale 1
• 4:00–6:00 p.m.: Small group sessions
• 6:00–8:00 p.m.: Space Talk
• Starting at 8:00 p.m.: Alien Party

Friday, October 9, 26

• 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.: “Explore your Uni(verse)”
• 2:00–6:00 p.m.: Small group time
• 6:00–8:00 p.m.: Space Talk
• Starting at 8:00 p.m.: Planet Party

Saturday, October 10, 26

• 10:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.: Brunch
• 2:00–4:00 PM: Chaos Game
• 6:00–8:00 p.m.: Space Talk
• Starting at 8:00 p.m.: Parallel Universe

Sunday, October 11, 26

• 10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.: “Calling Home”

Monday, October 12, 26

• 12:00–2:00 p.m.: Module presentation with the instructors
• 2:00–4:00 p.m.: Service Point presentation, introduction to eCampus and the course catalog
• 4:00–6:00 p.m.: Small group time
• 7:00–8:00 p.m.: “Hitchhiking Through the Bars”

Tuesday, October 13, 26

• 12:00–4:00 p.m.: Small group time
• 6:00–8:00 p.m.: Space Talk / Pub Quiz
• Starting at 8:00 p.m.: “Back to Earth”

Here you’ll find your printable schedule: Stunden-versum

In the winter semester 2026/27, the introductory events for your respective degree program will take place between Monday, 12.10.26 and Wednesday, 14.10.2026. Participation in the introductory events is highly recommended.

The regular courses begin on Thursday, 15.10.26

The lecture period ends on 12.02.27

Lecture-free period: 19.12.26 up to and including 10.01.27