What does STEP mean?
STEP is the student orientation program at THM, designed to provide you with the best possible support as you begin your studies. It includes both information sessions and opportunities to network with other first-year students.
Please note that in addition to the central events in your department, subject-specific events will also take place.
Central Events - All Dates
Individual appointments available from September 1st to October 2nd
Tuesday, September 1, 2026
, 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM
Pre-Arrival Information Session for International Students
This online event is specifically aimed at international students who will begin a full-time degree program at THM in the winter semester of 2026/2027.
We look forward to welcoming you and giving you a brief introduction to important topics such as the visa procedure, the blocked account, mandatory health insurance, as well as tips on living costs, accommodation and finally on traveling to THM in Hesse and registering as a resident.
The interactive event will be held in English and German and offers prospective students the opportunity to ask questions.
Online via Zoom
Meeting ID: 986 1304 6299
Passcode: 337515
Daily from September 7th to October 2nd, 2026
Bridging courses
Bridging courses serve as academic preparation for university studies.
They offer the ideal opportunity to review school material or fill in knowledge gaps before starting university. Bridging courses are offered in mathematics, programming, physics, and chemistry.
Each course lasts one week. You can find the exact course dates on the bridging course subpage.
Optionally on campus in Gießen, campus in Friedberg or online via Zoom
Wednesday, September 30, 2026,
5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Info Lounge for first-year students - by students for students
THM students answer questions about starting and studying at THM.
An offer from the InfoCenter THM.
Online via Zoom
Thursday, October 1, 2026,
2:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Welcome Day for international students (Bachelor's and Master's degree programs)
This event will be held in German and English and is aimed at international Bachelor's and Master's students in their first semester (with a high school diploma from abroad).
The International Office cordially invites all new international students from all degree programs in Gießen and Friedberg to the Welcome Day. Have a great start to your studies at THM – we're here to support you. Our mentors will also be available to answer your questions.
There you will learn about important topics such as:
- Course structure and organization of studies
- Support and learning opportunities
- Tips and experiences from other international students
- Information regarding your visa and stay during your studies
If you have any questions, please contact us by email at
We look forward to seeing you!
This event is not aimed at exchange students. There is an additional Orientation Day for you.
Regardless of where you study, the Welcome Day takes place on the Gießen campus .
Room A10.2.02
From October 5th to October 9th
Her first official day at THM begins in
Monday, October 5, 2026
- From 9:45 a.m. or 11:30 a.m. (Friedberg Campus)
- From 10:00 a.m. (Gießen Campus)
It's starting! - Welcome to all first-year students at THM (Bachelor's degree programs)
Official start of studies for all first-year Bachelor students in the winter semester 2026/2027
- greeting
- Lots of information and
- Division into mentoring groups
Afterwards: Campus tour with the STEP mentors
So be sure to be there!
Please note:
- The new students of the "Medical Physics and Radiation Protection" degree program are welcomed at the Friedberg campus.
- First-year students of the "Vocational and Business Education" course should definitely also participate in the introductory program at JLU Giessen starting on September 28th .
Rooms are signposted on campus (Friedberg) Congress Hall (Gießen)
Monday, October 5, 2026
- 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Friedberg Campus)
- 1:00 PM to 3:30 PM (Gießen Campus)
Campus Meet & Greet
The central institutions will set up information stands on the THM campus where they will introduce themselves, answer questions and hand out informational materials.
The STEP mentors take the first-year bachelor students directly to the stands as part of the campus tour.
First-year Master's students are cordially invited to attend the Campus Meet & Greet on their own.
Distributed across campus (Friedberg) Cafeteria Campus Gate (Gießen)
Individually from Monday, October 5th to Friday, October 9th, 2026
Individual programs of the departments
You will receive important information about your studies, such as timetables, registration deadlines, exams, etc., directly from the staff responsible for your degree program. You can find your individual study plan on the orientation page for your department.
First-year Master's students receive their individual program in advance via email.
Individually from Monday, October 5th to Friday, October 9th, 2026
Introductory and support sessions with the STEP mentors
STEP mentors support first-year bachelor students as they begin their studies and help with questions and problems.
You will receive further information during the welcome session by your department and on the first-year student page of your department.
Monday, October 5, 2026
From 1 p.m.
Games afternoon on the Friedberg campus
A little fun is essential during your studies, so we cordially invite you to a relaxed games night. There you can connect with your new classmates and get to know them outside of the everyday university routine.
Whether you bring your favorite game or own a tabletop game, there's something for everyone.
Rooms A8.1.06 and A8.1.07
Monday, October 5, 2026,
4:00 PM to 5:30 PM
Digital Services for Studies I - Network Services and E-Campus
Departments EI and MNI
In this presentation, IT service staff will inform you about the function and use of the digital infrastructure you need for your studies at THM: E-Campus and IT services.
Online via Zoom
Webinar ID: 650 2748 2802
Passcode: 339269
Monday, October 5, 2026.
Time to be announced.
Games night on the Gießen campus
A little fun is essential during your studies, so we cordially invite you to a relaxed games night. There you can connect with your new classmates and get to know them outside of the everyday university routine.
Whether you bring your favorite game or own a tabletop game, there's something for everyone.
Rooms C13.1.10 and C13.1.12
Tuesday, October 6, 2026,
8:30 to 10:00 a.m.
Digital Services for Studies I - Network Services and E-Campus
Departments ME, LSE, IEM, M, MND, WI, MuK FB and PTRA
In this presentation, IT service staff will inform you about the function and use of the digital infrastructure you need for your studies at THM: E-Campus and IT services.
Online via Zoom
Webinar ID: 650 2748 2802
Passcode: 339269
Tuesday, October 6, 2026,
10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Digital Services for Studies II - FlexiBib and Moodle
Departments ME, IEM, M, MND, WI, MuK FB and PTRA
This presentation will show you how to use the FlexiBib of the university library and the Moodle learning platform in combination with the Panopto video portal for your studies.
Online via Zoom
Webinar ID: 650 2748 2802
Passcode: 339269
Tuesday, October 6, 2026
From 2:00 PM
City rally organized by the AStA Gießen
Scavenger hunts are so yesterday, city rallies are the way to go. Just moved to the city and don't know where the kebab triangle or the elephant toilet is? Or are you a seasoned local who already knows every hidden gem? Then you've come to the right place!
Discover Giessen like never before – dive into our exciting city rally! Experience hidden treasures and the vibrant culture of our city while solving tricky puzzles. Get ready for an adventure that combines knowledge and fun. With plenty of games and lighthearted fun, you'll get to know Giessen and your new classmates.
Meeting point will be announced later
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
, 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Digital Services for Studies II - FlexiBib and Moodle
Departments EI and MNI
This presentation will show you how to use the FlexiBib of the university library and the Moodle learning platform in combination with the Panopto video portal for your studies.
Room A20.1.36
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
, 8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Digital Services for Studies I - Network Services and E-Campus
Departments of Construction, LSE, GES, MuK GI
In this presentation, IT service staff will inform you about the function and use of the digital infrastructure you need for your studies at THM: E-Campus and IT services.
Online via Zoom
Webinar ID: 650 2748 2802
Passcode: 339269
Wednesday, October 7, 2026,
10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Digital Services for Studies II - FlexiBib and Moodle
Departments of Construction, LSE, GES, MuK GI, Economics (2nd semester)
This presentation will show you how to use the FlexiBib of the university library and the Moodle learning platform in combination with the Panopto video portal for your studies.
Online via Zoom
Webinar ID: 650 2748 2802
Passcode: 339269
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
From 2:30 p.m.
Lecture Hall Cinema Friedberg
Lecture hall with a twist - In the student lecture hall cinema, you can enjoy free movies right on campus.
Organized by the student associations of Friedberg. Details to follow.
Rooms B1.1.01 and B1.1.03
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
, 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Welcome Get-Together - Presidential Welcome for International Students
(Bachelor's and Master's Degree Programs)
Are you new to THM? Then we cordially invite you to our reception for international students! Our Vice President, Prof. Dr. Hanrath, will personally welcome you and all other new international students. Take this opportunity to talk to her and ask your questions. Student initiatives and institutions will also be present, offering exciting opportunities to actively shape student life at THM and in Gießen or Friedberg. Afterwards, you can network and get to know other students from all over the world.
Regardless of their course of study (Friedberg or Gießen), the welcome address by the President will take place on the Gießen campus.
If you have any questions, please contact us by email at
The International Office looks forward to welcoming you!
Gießen Campus, Room C14.1.17
Wednesday, October 7, 2026
From 6:00 PM
Pub crawl Gießen
Immerse yourself in the exciting world of pub culture on our unforgettable pub crawl! We'll take you on an adventurous journey through the city's best bars. Experience a night full of fun, music, and good company as you hop from bar to bar.
Our pub crawl offers you not only the chance to meet new people, but also to enjoy a wide range of drinks and delicious snacks. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beer in a traditional pub, a tasty cocktail in a chic bar, or a wild night out in a club – our tour has something for everyone.
So grab your friends and join us as we party all night long.
Meeting point will be announced later
Thursday, October 8, 2026
From 12:00 PM
Campus Day Friedberg with city rally
From 12 noon onwards, the student associations in Friedberg will provide you with a small lunch snack to fuel you up before the city rally. Take this opportunity to get to know your future fellow students, group members, and your student associations. Parking deck by building A8 (behind the cafeteria).
From 1 p.m. onwards, you and your fellow students can get to know the city, the campus, and the university better. Solve puzzles together, collect points, and find landmarks – and make new friends along the way. Parking garage by building A8 (behind the cafeteria).
From 4:00 PM onwards, everyone will gather in the town hall park after the city rally for drinks and refreshments. Friedberg Town Hall Park
Starting at 5:00 p.m., there will be an official welcome by the THM (Technical University of Central Hesse) board and the mayor of Friedberg. Friedberg Town Hall Park
Thursday, October 8, 2026,
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Consultation hours for international students
Even after the Welcome Day, the International Office is available during consultation hours for international students to answer all questions about studying and living in Central Hesse.
Room A3.0.10 (Friedberg Campus) Room A13.0.09 (Gießen Campus)
Thursday, October 8, 2026,
4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Open Q&A session at the university library
Do you have questions about the media and services offered by the university library? In the open Q&A session, we will clarify your concerns and discuss questions that frequently arise at the start of your studies.
Online via Zoom
Meeting ID: 891 1100 0489
Passcode: ga45Dxw2
Thursday, October 8, 2026
From 5:00 PM
Presidential welcome address for all students on the Friedberg campus
You will receive a warm welcome from the THM Executive Board and the mayor of the city.
We look forward to seeing you!
Friedberg Town Hall Park
Thursday, October 8, 2026,
evening
Freshers' party in Giessen
Celebrate the start of the semester with us like you've never experienced it before! We'll transform the night into an unforgettable party with pulsating music, a captivating atmosphere, and an energy that will sweep you away. Dance until the early hours, make new friends, and kick off the semester with a bang.
Join us as we turn night into day - the semester opening party you can't miss!
Uhlenspiegel (Seltersweg 55, 35390 Gießen)
Friday, October 9, 2026
, 8:30 to 10:00 a.m.
Digital Services for Studies I - Network Services and E-Campus
All English-language degree programs
In this presentation, IT service staff will inform you about the function and use of the digital infrastructure you need for your studies at THM: E-Campus and IT services.
Online via Zoom
Meeting ID: 678 0971 0931
Passcode: 776475
Friday, October 9, 2026,
11:00 AM to 12:30 PM
Digital Services for Studies II - FlexiBib and Moodle
All English-language degree programs
This presentation will show you how to use the FlexiBib of the university library and the Moodle learning platform in combination with the Panopto video portal for your studies.
Online via Zoom
Meeting ID: 678 0971 0931
Passcode: 776475
Friday, October 9, 2026
From 5:00 PM
Pub crawl Friedberg
You can get to know the relevant locations in Friedberg during a city tour with games and fun.
We're really looking forward to it. Your AStA team
Parking garage at building A8 (behind the cafeteria)
Starting Monday, October 12, 2026
Monday, October 12, 2026
Start of the lecture period
Lectures for the winter semester 2026/2027 are starting! You will find out what takes place when and where, and how to get your timetable, during STEP and from your mentors.
A checklist for starting your studies can be found on the subpage "Important Steps".
You can find further information about lectures and student life in our FAQs
Individually from Monday, October 12th to Friday, October 16th, 2026
Introductory and support sessions with the STEP mentors
STEP mentors support first-year bachelor students as they begin their studies and help with questions and problems.
You will receive further information during the welcome session by your department and on the first-year student page of your department.
Thursday, October 15, 2026,
1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Consultation hours for international students
Even after the Welcome Day, the International Office is available during consultation hours for international students to answer all questions about studying and living in Central Hesse.
Room A3.0.10 (Friedberg Campus) Room A13.0.09 (Gießen Campus)
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
, from 4:00 PM
Presentation on student financing
The Gießen Student Union provides an overview of the various ways to finance a degree: from parental support to BAföG (Federal Training Assistance Act), part-time jobs and scholarships to student loans.
Student Union Gießen: Otto-Behagel-Str. 25D, Room 6
Friday, November 6, 2026
, from 8:00 PM
Freshers' Party Friedberg
In the cafeteria (building A6)
Celebrate the start of the semester with us like you've never experienced it before! We'll transform the night into an unforgettable party with pulsating music, a captivating atmosphere, and an energy that will sweep you away. Make new friends and kick off the semester with a bang.
Join us as we turn night into day - the semester opening party you can't miss!
In the cafeteria (building A6)
Program for Master's degree programs
Various dates and times
Program for Master's degree programs
Students in a Master's program are welcomed individually by their department.
The dates will be communicated to you by email before the start of the semester. In advance, you can familiarize yourself with the most important steps for starting your studies at THM.
As a first-year Master's student, you are of course welcome to participate in STEP events. For example, you can learn about the central areas at the Campus Meet & Greet or get to know Gießen or Friedberg during the pub crawl.
If you have any questions, the InfoCenter at the respective location will be happy to help.
What are mentors at STEP?
During your first few weeks at THM, you will be accompanied by experienced mentors. These students from higher semesters will give you tips for your studies and help you get to know your fellow students and the university.
After the welcome event, you will be assigned to mentoring groups. If you are unable to attend on this day, please contact the InfoCenter.
Departmental events - All dates
On your department's website you will find information about department-specific events. These take in addition to the central events.
Students in a Master's program will receive an individual welcome from their department. The dates will be communicated to you in advance via email.
To the first-year student pages of the departments
Departments and Bachelor's degree programs at the Gießen campus
01 CONSTRUCTION - Civil Engineering
- architecture
- Civil engineering
02 EI - Electrical and Information Technology
- Vocational and in-company training (electrical engineering)
- Electrical and Information Technology (Gießen)
- Physics and technology for space applications
03 ME - Mechanical Engineering and Energy Technology
- Vocational and in-company training (metal technology)
- Energy technology
- Mechanical Engineering (Gießen)
04 LSE - Life Science Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Biotechnology / Biopharmaceutical Technology
- Medical physics and radiation protection
- Digital Medicine
- Midwifery science
- Medical Management
06 MNI - Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Computer Science
- Applied Data Science
- Bioinformatics
- Digital Media Systems
- Computer science
- Engineering Informatics
07 Business - THM Business School
- Business administration
- Business Administration - Sustainability Management
21 MuK - Management and Communication (Gi)
-
Event management and technology
Departments and Bachelor's degree programs at the Friedberg campus
11 IEM - Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics
- Electrical and Information Technology (Friedberg)
- Media Informatics
12 M - Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Materials Technology
- Mechanical Engineering (Friedberg)
- Mechatronics
13 MND - Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Data Processing
- Applied Physics
- Railway engineering
- Mathematics for Sustainability, Economics and Data Science
- Organizational and IT security
- Business informatics
14 WI - Industrial Engineering
- Real Estate and Facility Management
- Industrial Engineering
21 MuK - Management and Communication (Fb)
-
Logistics management