Jul 29, 2025
Umming and Ahhing about what to study? TU Dresden launches the "orientation year"
Orientation year: High school graduates can register until August 31st to try their hand at the student way of life for a year, without having to commit to a four-year degree program.
TUD Dresden University of Technology is offering a new program for prospective students starting this winter semester (2025/26): the orientation year. It is aimed at all newcomers to the university who are not sure what they want to study - and who are looking to find out whether a particular degree program is the right way forward. There are a total of 80 places up for grabs.
Get involved in student life and on campus
The orientation year effectively bridges the gap between school and university. It gives young people the chance to really get to grips with everyday university life, to exchange ideas with other students and to take advantage of the various support services that TUD has to offer. Participants can choose courses from amongst almost 50 Bachelor's and Diplom degree programs, as well as from four teacher training programs, encompassing a total of 29 disciplines. The orientation year is supplemented by workshops on choosing the right course of study, language courses, an introduction to academic work and a preparatory math course for those interested in STEM subjects. Hands-on projects, excursions to companies and career orientation events also provide initial insights into various fields of study.
Objective: Make an informed decision
Thanks to its structured yet flexible orientation program, TUD offers a new and dynamic way to get a taste of university life. The idea behind the orientation year is to reduce drop-out rates and course changes later on. It is also there to provide a realistic picture of the opportunities and challenges that you’ll face when studying. Students can have a closer look at their abilities and goals, and are then able to make a more informed and confident decision about their academic future. The university supports them with advice that is tailored to their individual situation, providing a mentoring and coaching program alongside various study and career guidance events.
Application and participation
A university entrance qualification (e.g. Abitur) is required for participation. International applicants also require proof of their German language skills. Applications can be submitted until August 31, 2025, and the program starts with an introductory week at the end of September.
Further information and a detailed list of FAQs: www.tu-dresden.de/orientierungsjahr.
Contact:
Center for Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching
Nadja Scope
+49 351 463-37852
Christina Schulz
+49 351 463-32910