The first semesters
Arrived at KIT and mastered the first organizational steps? Then you're ready to get started.
What can you expect at the beginning?
The first semesters are clearly structured: You attend the same lectures together with your fellow students. The main focus is on the basics of computer science and higher mathematics - a theory-heavy introduction that may come as a surprise. The proportion of math is particularly challenging at the beginning: in the first semester, math takes up a large part of the working time, in the second semester this proportion decreases noticeably, and from the third semester onwards it is significantly smaller.
Practice is important too
In addition to theory, the programming module teaches initial Java skills. Tutorials and exercise sheets accompany the lectures - very time-consuming, especially in the first semester.
But: you are not alone!
The KIT Department of Informatics supports its students in all aspects of their studies, from organizational issues to subject-specific concerns. Various contact points and resources ensure that students can always find the help and guidance they need to successfully complete their studies.
The Informatics Study Program Services (ISS) is the central point of contact for all questions relating to studying Informatics - whether Bachelor's, Master's, teaching degree or minor subject. It provides advice on examinations, organizes courses, takes care of study plans, exam dates and much more.
Do you have initial questions about your informatics, informations systems or teaching degree course? In our FAQs you will find quick and clear answers and help on the most important topics - from course content and examinations to procedures and regulations.
The "eezi" (pronounced "easy") course is aimed at all first-semester students. Topics such as time management, learning techniques and exam preparation are covered in tutorials, lectures and exercise sheets, as well as advisory sessions - all with the aim of making it easier to get started and to make your studies successful and goal-oriented.
The ISS offers students a wide range of support for a successful course of study. This includes events such as Info2, an accompanying event format that provides targeted support with starting, orienting and organizing their studies, as well as the International Student Roundtable (ISRT), which helps international students in particular to start their studies. Special lectures such as eezi and individual mentoring complete the offer.
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The student representive bodies are also good points of contact for questions or problems - as students, they know the hurdles and pitfalls from their own experience. They also work in committees for better study conditions and contribute to a colorful campus life with events. They also sell old exams and examination transcripts.
The Information Systems course has its own student committee, Forum Wirtschaftsinformatik.
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Well thought-out study planning is crucial at KIT in order to organize the course of studies efficiently, to keep an eye on deadlines and to be able to set individual priorities sensibly. The KIT Department of Informatics offers assistance and templates for a sensible and targeted study plan.
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KIT supports students with a wide range of learning opportunities such as study rooms, a learning partner exchange and special laboratories for writing, methods and learning strategies. The faculty library in the informatics building offers subject-specific media, modern learning spaces and bookable group study rooms.
The aim is to promote individual learning and improve academic success.
KIT supports students in special circumstances with a wide range of services to promote equal opportunities and inclusion. This includes help for students with children or family obligations, pregnant persons, chronically ill students, students with special needs and competitive athletes. The aim is to take the best possible account of individual circumstances during studies.
The first semesters are over and you feel like thinking outside the box and gaining new experiences? An exchange program broadens your horizons - professionally, culturally and personally. You gain international experience, strengthen important soft skills and improve your career opportunities through new perspectives and valuable networks. KIT and the Department of Informatics offer students a wide range of opportunities to gain international insights.