Disadvantage compensations are intended to ensure that students with special needs can participate in their studies on an equal basis. They have the opportunity to apply for individually tailored study and examination conditions that take their specific situation into account.

Who is allowed to apply for a disadvantage compensation?

According to § 11 of the Framework Study and Examination Regulations (Rahmenstudien- und Prüfungsordnung), this includes students who "... can credibly demonstrate by means of a medical certificate that they are unable to complete an assessment in whole or in part in the prescribed form or within the prescribed time due to disabilities within the meaning of Section 2 (1) SGB IX or due to long-term or permanent health impairments."

When do I have to apply?

Applications must be submitted as early as possible (e.g., at the beginning of your studies or semester), but no later than eight weeks before the exam.

How to apply?

1. The application must be submitted to the examination board of the core subject and to the relevant examination office. A sample application form is available for this purpose.
2. In addition, a current medical certificate/report must be provided to demonstrate the impact of the existing disability or impairment on the student's studies and/or examinations. Such a medical certificate/report should include at least the following:
   
   • Explanation of the individual symptoms and their specific effects, including concentration, time management, and stress management 
   • Specific effects on studies (e.g., problems with taking exams under time pressure, difficulties in structuring learning content)
3. In addition, it is recommended (not obligatory) to seek advice from the Office for Students with Disabilities and Chronic Illnesses at Freie Universität Berlin. A letter of recommendation from this counseling center may be attached to the application.

The chair of the examination board will review the application in detail and determine the appropriate compensation for disadvantages. You will receive written notification of the decision by email (communication will take place exclusively via your FU email address).