University of Bamberg
open search form
You are here

Students Currently Enrolled in Bamberg

For new international students

  1.  University of bamberg
  2. Studies at the University of Bamberg
  3. Students Currently Enrolled in Bamberg
  4. New students
  5. For new international students
  6. International master students
  7. Late Arrival - FAQ

Late Arrival – International Master's Students

What does "Late Arrival" mean?

International students are expected to be present in Bamberg by the start of the lecture period, at the latest by October 11, 2026for the winter semester 2026/27.

Late arrival means arriving after that specific date.

If you cannot arrive on time:

  • Inform the Welcome Center and the person responsible for your study programme as early as possible

  • Arriving 1–3 weeks late may be possible, but anything beyond that becomes very difficult

Why is a Late Arrival problematic?

  • The standard period of study for master programmes is 4 semesters, with a maximum of 6 semesters

  • If you need more time to finish, you must provide a valid reason (e.g., doctor’s note) to extend your studies

  • Once enrolled, your semester counter starts – even if you’re not yet in Bamberg!

  • Remote/online learning is NOT an option

  • You may face potential problems with visa, residence permit, and finances

  • Highly problematic in case of a conditional admission

  • For students studying English & American Studies (both tracks): mandatory attendance of placement test one week before lecture period starts

What are my options if I will arrive late?

Option 1: You are NOT yet enrolled

  • You have received your admission letter to your preferred master programme

  • you do not enroll unless you have a confirmed visa appointment or know when you will receive your visa

  • A defermenmt of admission to the University of Bamberg is not possible. A formal application for the next semester must be submitted.
  • You will have to pay the application fee again

  • Advantage: Your semester counter does not start, and you remain eligible to begin later.

Option 2: De-registration BEFORE March 31st/ September 30

  • You have received your admission letter and have taken all steps to enroll at the university

  • You realize that you cannot join the university for the start of the semester

  • Send your de-registration request before 31 March:

    → contact Enrollment Office (Studierndenkanzlei) for more information: studierendenkanzlei(at)uni-bamberg.de  

  • Your first semester will not be counted

  • You will also receive your semester contribution fee back

  • You will have to re-apply for the next semester and also pay the application fee

Option 3: You stay enrolled

  • You have received your admission letter and have taken all steps to enroll at the university

  • Your first semester will be counted

  • You will not receive a refund of your semester fee

  • You will have to pay for your German health insurance even if you are not in Germany

Special Case: Conditional Admission

  • If your admission is conditional, you must pass a specific class or module within a certain timeframe

  • If your visa situation is unclear, do NOT enroll at the university

  • If you do not meet the requirement on time, you will be automatically de-registered – even if you are already in Bamberg

  • You cannot be re-admitted to the programme if this happens

Late arrivals pose significant problems, and each situation has to be considered individually. Therefore, we would be happy to advise you in a personal (online) appointment. Please contact us at: master.welcome-center(at)uni-bamberg.de 

Late Arrival Letters are NOT issued for students in the International Software System Science Master's degree programme.