Deregistration and dropping out of studies

In short: Deregistration officially ends student status, for example after successful graduation, when changing universities or when dropping out. Dropping out is not rare and is not a personal failure.

In more detail: Statistics show that a considerable proportion of students do not finish their studies with the degree originally chosen.

In detail

• Reasons: Lack of motivation, financial problems, health reasons or the wrong choice of subject.
• Formal deregistration: Done at the student registration office, often with a deadline.
• Alternatives to dropping out: Consider changing subjects, changing university or taking a break (leave of absence) (zweitstudium-und-studienfachwechsel).
• Financial consequences: Mind the effects on BAföG, insurance and any ongoing contracts.
• Advice: Study counselling and psychological counselling centres help with the decision.
• New career start: Vocational training or another path can make sense after dropping out.
• No stigma: Dropping out is not a final decision about the rest of one’s life.