No, you are not allowed to take any FMs other than those mentioned on your admission paper. It would be unfair to other students if you joined a foundational module that you've already covered in your previous degree. You'd get easy credits without any gain in knowledge and it might intimidate your fellow students who have to catch up in this field.
Every exam except the master's thesis can be re-taken twice (BAMA-O §13.2), which means you have a maximum of three attempts. There is an additional rule (§13.1) for the first semester only: if you fail an exam during the first semester, it doesn't count towards the total attempts. It will show up as "failed" on PULS but otherwise it will be treated as though the exam was never taken.
For more information, you can check out the Cognitive Systems study regulations and the general Bachelor-Master regulations ("BAMA-O"), although the latter is unfortunately only available in German.
Yes, university offers free German language courses for students. You can find more information here.
There are three campus that are associated with University Potsdam: Am Neuen Palais, Griebnitzsee and Golm. For courses in our program campus Golm is most relevant. However, Am Neuen Palais is the main campus. Should you encounter any administrative issues (e.g. with your student card), join a sports class or language course, you might have to go there.
Looking for a specific room?
If you're given a specific room number it might not be immediately clear how to find that room. Here is an example:
| 2. | 14. | 2. | 22 |
| Campus (1 Am Neuen Palais, 2 Golm, 3 Griebnitzsee) | House | Floor | Room |
Room 2.14.2.22 is at Campus Golm, in House 14, on floor 2 in room 22.
If you face any issues during the semester, for example a missed deadline or difficulties during registration, it's usually a good idea to approach your lecturer. If getting in touch is difficult or communication feels a bit unclear, you are very welcome to reach out to the FSR. Together, we can help clarify the situation, support you in talking to teaching staff, and look for a good solution for everyone.
The nearest airport to the University is Berlin Brandenburg Airport. From Berlin Brandenburg Airport, you can take a train connection RB22 towards Golm train station and Golm campus is just 6 minutes walk from there. You can download public tranport apps like VBB or DB to find your way around Berlin and Potsdam. These apps are usually more accurate and up-to-date than Google Maps.
Your first priority should be to find an accommodation in Studentenwerk Potsdam. Remember to apply at least one semester early to get a place i.e by April for Winter semester and by October for Summer Semester. Each application is valid for one semester only. A list of some other options to find accommodation can be found here .
You should register at Citizen Services Office (Bürgerbüro) everytime you change your living address. If you live in Potsdam then you can make an appointment at Citizen Services Office Potsdam and for Berlin you can make an appointment at Citizen Services Offices Berlin. More information can be found here.
As non-EU international student, you most likely only get a VISA for 3 to 6 months at first. You should apply for a VISA extension or residence permit 6 weeks before the expiry of your current VISA. You can find more information here.
Sign-up to our mailing list! We regularly post job offers that are forwarded to us, especially TA positions from professors of our department.
Here are some other links where you can find job offers:
You can find some job application tips provided here .
