Some life circumstances can make it difficult to take exams under the usual conditions – for example, a chronic illness, a disability, pregnancy, or family caregiving responsibilities.
To ensure that you still have equal opportunities in your studies, the Hessian Higher Education Act (§ 25 para. 3 HessHG) stipulates that examination regulations must contain provisions for compensation for disadvantages.
The Technische Hochschule Mittelhessen ( THM ) implements this requirement in its General Regulations for Bachelor's and Master's Examination Regulations (AB) . The following rules apply:
Section 6, paragraph 6 of the regulations allows you to receive accommodations if you are unable to complete an examination or coursework in the prescribed format due to a prolonged or permanent illness or disability. These accommodations may include, for example, extended time , the use of technical aids , or an alternative examination format .
Section 6, paragraph 7 of the AB also takes your situation into account if you are subject to maternity protection regulations or caregiving responsibilities (e.g., for children or dependent relatives). In these cases, you can also apply for compensation for disadvantages.
Section 4 Paragraph 3 of the AB obliges to take your individual situation into account when setting examination dates and registration deadlines
Contact points regarding compensation for disadvantages at THM
If you believe you might be eligible for accommodations, take advantage of the counselling services offered by THM. Together we will find a solution that takes your individual situation into account – so that you can continue and successfully complete your studies under fair conditions.
Central Examination Office (ZPA)
The Central Examination Office advises you on all examination-related legal issues and supports you in interpreting the General Provisions and the Examination Regulations.
Contact ZPA
BliZ – Center for Blind and Visually Impaired Students
BliZ offers advice on all aspects of studying with a chronic illness or disability , especially regarding options for compensation during exams.
BliZ website
Departments Examination Boards
The examination board of your degree program is responsible for deciding on compensation for disadvantages and determines the specific design of the measure.
Link to the examination boards of THM
Equal Opportunities / Family-Friendly University
The Equal Opportunities / Family-Friendly University supports you with the issue of compensation for disadvantages if you family obligations such as pregnancy, childcare or care for relatives.
Contact Family-Friendly University
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who can apply for compensation for disadvantages?
Students who meet the following criteria can apply for accommodations:
- have a disability or chronic illness,
- fall under the statutory maternity protection regulations,
- Caring for children or relatives and are therefore limited in their ability to do so.
What forms of compensation for disadvantages are possible?
Possible measures include, for example:
- Extension of processing times for exams or term papers,
- Use of technical aids,
- Conversion to a different examination format (e.g. oral instead of written)
How do I apply for compensation for disadvantages?
- Contact one of the contact points (e.g. BliZ, Equality, ZPA) for confidential advice.
- Prepare your application, preferably with supporting documents (e.g. medical certificate, attestation, proof of caregiving responsibilities).
- To the application form.
- The form "Notification of pregnancy"You can obtain this upon request via email at This email address is protected against spambots! JavaScript must be enabled to view it!.
Are there deadlines for submitting applications?
Submit your application to the examination board of your degree programme before your exam. Accommodations cannot be granted retroactively.
What documents do I need to include with my application?
This depends on the individual case. In some cases, submitting a medical certificate, official medical certificate, or specialist medical report to the examination board may be advisable and necessary.
Do I have to disclose my illness or family situation?
No. You do not need to disclose your diagnosis. Submitting the university-standard medical certificate or equivalent documentation explaining the impact on your performance or what disadvantage you face is sufficient – not the specific illness itself. Your information will be treated confidentially.
Am I entitled to a specific form of compensation for disadvantages?
No, the examination board decides which form of compensation for disadvantages is suitable to offset the disadvantage and to maintain equal opportunities for students.
Do I have to follow the decision of the examination board?
No, if you participate in the regular exam despite having been granted accommodations, you cannot subsequently claim any entitlement.
Will any accommodations for disadvantages be noted on the certificate?
No. Any accommodations granted will not appear on your certificate or academic transcript.
Can an application also be rejected?
Yes, the review board examines each application individually as a case-by-case decision. An application can be rejected if it is insufficiently justified or if the proposed measure would impair equal opportunities for others.
