Academic Adjustments - Studying with equal opportunities

What is an academic adjustment?

academic adjutsments in examinations are a tool for compensating for individual disadvantages and achieving equal opportunities. Important: The aim is not to make examinations easier, but to adapt the conditions so that you can demonstrate your knowledge under comparable conditions.

Legally, disadvantage compensation is enshrined in the Bremen Higher Education Act (§ 31) and in the General Examination Regulations (APO BA and MA § 11). Whether and in what form it is granted is always decided by the examination board on a case-by-case basis.

Who can apply for disadvantage compensation?

The law refers to a ‘disability’ when physical, mental, intellectual or sensory impairments prevent a person from participating equally in social life over a longer period of time. This also includes chronic physical or mental illnesses – regardless of whether you have an official disability card or consider yourself to be ‘disabled’.
For context: According to the 22nd Social Survey of the German Student Union (2023), around 16 percent of all students state that they are restricted in their studies due to an illness or impairment. Applied to Bremen University of Applied Sciences, this equates to around 1,400 students.
So you are by no means alone!

What forms can academic adjustments take?

Academic adjutsments are tailored to each individual. Examples include:

1. Extended processing time for assignments
2. More time for exams
3. Breaks during exams
4. Use of technical aids
5. Support from assistants

Important: There is no legal entitlement to individual measures.

How do I submit an application?

If you are considering applying for academic adjustments:

Take a look at our checklist.

And very importantly: we are happy to advise you personally and confidentially.

Contact: inklusivstudieren@hs-bremen.de