Students with Disabilities: Studying in Germany and What You Need to Know

Germany is an inclusive country, not only in terms of cultural diversity but also in people with disabilities. Thus, it is not surprising that there are specific services to allow equal opportunities and encourage international students with disabilities to study in Germany. 

If you want to learn more, here are other things you need to know about studying in Germany, for students with disabilities. 

Inclusivity and Accessibility of German Education to Persons with Disability 

Inclusivity and accessibility of education in Germany are included in its legislation. In fact, it is enshrined in its Higher Education Framework Act. 

Thus, as part of Germany’s effort to implement “higher education for all,” many academic institutions in the country are required to make sure that their facilities are accessible to everyone, and this includes people with disabilities or chronic diseases. 

Thus, in recent years, many higher education institutions (HEIs) in Germany have invested a lot of money in developing and improving its accessibility features, from its facilities to its programs, to procedures. 

Allowing Equal Opportunities Through its Procedures 

Admission 

If the student’s disability or chronic illness means they need more preparation time, notification on whether they’ve been accepted or not to a degree program will be sent to them before other students. 

If an institution’s particular requirement cannot be proven or met by the student due to their disability, or chronic illness, students can ask the institution if there are other achievements they can use to meet the requirements. 

During Their Studies

If the current structure of the institution is making it difficult for its students with disabilities to keep up with other students, resulting in disadvantages, it is part of an institution’s role to look for alternative solutions to make the playing field fair. 

Different Support Students with Disabilities Can Access

Fortunately, there are some organizations or departments inside the institution itself that students with disabilities or chronic illnesses can tap if they need assistance. 

Here are some of them. 

German National Association for Student Affairs 

Also known as the Deutsches Studentenwerk has its information and Advice Centre (IBS) for persons with disabilities and chronic illnesses. The center gives students general advice about studying in Germany. Studentenwerk ensures students get equal opportunities in Germany. 

They also have on-site advising services which students can access in their institution. 

International Office

Your institution’s international office is in charge of all international student issues in Germany’s HEIs. The International Office can give you general advice or connect you with the right organizations, representatives, and government bodies that can help you the most, depending on your needs. 

Students with Disabilities Representatives 

HEIs in Germany have representatives for the different interests of students, and this includes students with disabilities or chronic illnesses. 

Students can contact their representatives if they have problems and questions. In return, representatives can help students with their needs, from planning to forwarding their issues to authorities and coming up with a solution. 

DAAD 

If you want to learn and need more information for students with disabilities, including financial assistance and scholarships, you can check out the list of financial assistance the organization is offering to international students. 

Know more about Germany as a study destination by checking our articles at MSM Unify.