Student life

Applying to your desired study programme is easy – you just need to fill out our online application form. In the video, we’ll take you through each step of the application process.

Once you’ve submitted your online application, your study contract will be sent to you via e-mail. Simply sign it digitally and e-mail it back to us, or print it out, sign it and send it to us via post.

Studying online at IU means studying where, when and how you want. You can choose how many courses you want to take each semester, and can access your learning materials anytime you want, from anywhere.

You don’t need to be tied down to any fixed schedule: set up your semesters so they fit in with the rest of your commitments.

In the video you will also find a detailed explanation about this topic. 

So you’ve made the choice to study on-campus in Germany during part or all of your studies. Wonderful – exciting opportunities in Europe’s largest economy await. In order to apply to the study programme of your choice, the first step is to fill out our online application form. In the video, we’ll take you through each step of the application process.

You don’t have to decide which semester you’ll take on-campus, if you don’t know yet. You can start your studies online, and move to our Berlin or Bad-Honnef campus at a later semester.

Once you’ve submitted your online application, your study contract will be sent to you via e-mail. Simply sign it digitally and e-mail it back to us – or upload it via our uploads page (a link to the page will be sent to you along with your contract.)

Now that you’re familiar with how to book your courses, all you need to do is follow the recommended course schedule when planning your semesters. If you need more time to complete your studies, because you have other obligations, or because you want to study at a different pace, you have the option to extend your study duration with no extra fees.

That’s it – you’re ready to attend your first lecture! You can expect intimate study sessions, either in-person or online according to your choice, where you’ll study side by side with your fellow students 2-3 times a week. You’ll have 24/7 access to the digital learning materials, such as the IU Learn App.

In the video you will also find a detailed explanation about this topic. 

Once you’ve completed a module, and feel confident in your understanding of the material, you can sign up and take your exam.

Just like with the rest of your studies, you get to decide when and where you want to take your exam; you can do it online or at one of our on-site examination centres, in Germany, Austria or Switzerland.

Not all modules require a final written exam – some courses will require a term paper, project report, presentation or workbook.

And to complete your studies, you’ll work on your final thesis along with your thesis guide.