Coronavirus (COVID-19) – important information

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Bavarian state cabinet decision // 13th BayIfSMV extended, reduced distances in face-to-face teaching
• Library // Changes as of 2 August

Other news from the University:

• Peer programme for those interested in a doctorate
• Information from the ZIM // Opening hours of the ZMK equipment loans office
• Reminder: The covid-19 updates are going on summer break

Bavarian state cabinet decision // 13th BayIfSMV extended, reduced distances in face-to-face teaching

The current 13th BayIfSMV has been extended until 25 August 2021 inclusive. Changes as of 28 July 2021: As of today, in areas with a 7-day incidence rate of 100 or lower, face-to-face courses are possible even if the minimum distance of 1.5 metres cannot be maintained between all students throughout the duration of the course. The University of Passau had already taken this reduction of the minimum distance into account in its preparations for winter semester 2021–22, so that planning can continue without any changes in this regard.
The amendment of the 13th BayIfSMV has brought no changes in the admissible number of study desks in the University Library reading rooms. The FFP2 mask-wearing requirement at the library desks is also upheld. There are also no changes to the rules for examinations.

All other existing disease control measures remain in place, in particular the FFP2 mask-wearing obligation inside all University buildings. Official announcement from the Bavarian Ministry of Science and the Arts [German content].

Library // Changes as of 2 August

The University Library will introduce the following changes to its services starting next week:

As of 2 August: group work in the central library // The University Library is testing a group-work scheme starting Monday, 2 August: From Mondays to Fridays, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., University members can book two-hour time slots for group-work sessions in the Library Lounge. Up to four people can register via the booking system [NB: In the booking system, you may have to scroll down past the German text for the English version]. In accordance with the 13th Bavarian disease control ordinance (13. BayIfSMV), FFP2 masks must also be worn and the specified distances between desks observed during group-work sessions.

As of 2 August: collection of interlibrary loan copies from the central library // Currently, the University Library is permitted to deliver interlibrary loan articles by e-mail. However, this special licence from the VG Wort collecting society is going to expire on 31 July 2021. As of Monday, 2 August, articles ordered via interlibrary loan will once again be issued only in hardcopy. Your ordered copies are placed in the collection area of the central library for you to pick up.

As of 3 August: anonymised collection of books and media // To protect your privacy, any media you order will be placed in the central library's collection area under your library user number rather than your name. You can find your number on the back of the CampusCard. Please note the following number ranges:
Students: 064 0.. and 064 1..
Staff: 064 3..
External and special cards: 064 5..
Professors: 064 8..

Please note: As mentioned above, you will still have to wear an FFP2 mask at your library desk. The amendment of the 13th BayIfSMV, which entered into force today, has brought no changes in the admissible number of study desks in the University Library reading rooms. The FFP2 mask-wearing requirement at the library desks is also upheld.

Peer programme for those interested in a doctorate

Did you enjoy research-based learning during your studies? Perhaps you have already considered pursuing a career in academia? A doctorate is the first step on this career path. Our new peer programme for early career researchers, called "NaWi", is there to offer you support as you embark on a doctorate:

• Get advice as you decide whether a doctorate is right for you
• Get support as you obtain funding
• Find out what doctoral study is like at the University of Passau by networking with mentors
• Access information, advice and further qualifications.

You still have until 15 August to apply for the peer programme. For more information and to apply, visit the Graduate Centre website.

Information from the ZIM // Opening hours of the ZMK equipment loans office

The ZMK equipment loans office will return to regular opening hours from 2 August 2021 onwards. During the semester break, the office is open to students and lecturers on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 to 11 a.m. Prior appointments are no longer necessary. As the opening hours return to normal, overdue fines will once again be charged for the late return of equipment; however, this does not yet apply to items previously borrowed and currently out on loan. Please make sure you observe the applicable hygiene measures, keep a distance of 1.5 metres and wear an FFP2 mask when you come in to collect your reserved equipment. If you have any questions, send an e-mail to verleih-zmk@uni-passau.de.

Reminder: The covid-19 updates are going on summer break

Our Wednesday updates will be taking a break during August. You will receive the next regular update on 1 September. The update team – consisting of Tamara Christof, Andrew Rink, Birgit Schwenger, Ulrich Zukowski and Katrina Jordan – wish you a wonderful, well-earned summer break, and above all: good health!

The next update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 1 September.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

International street festival on the refectory forecourt

The University Executive and the Student Representatives' Council (AStA) cordially invite all students to the International Street Festival on the refectory forecourt (between the library and the refectory building) on 30 July from 5 to 10 p.m. The student representatives and various student clubs and societies will be presenting themselves at stands positioned corona-safe and there will also be a music programme and sports activities on the adjacent lawns. The street festival is part of the restart – welcome back initiative of the Bavarian State Ministry of Science and the Arts, which wishes to create more opportunities for exchange, networking and discourse between students in the run-up to winter semester 2021–22. We look forward to seeing you there!

New coronavirus-related developments:

• The covid-19 updates are going on summer break

Other news from the University:

• Call for international students with a blocked bank account

The covid-19 updates are going on summer break

Our Wednesday updates will be taking a break during August. This means that after next week's update on 28 July, the next time you hear from us will (we hope!) be on 1 September. If any urgent matters and developments should arise, we will inform you directly by e-mail.

Call for international students with a blocked bank account

It has come to our knowledge that a number of international students in Germany who used the services of BAM – Bundesweites Anlagenmanagement UG, a company offering blocked bank account services, have not received their July payments. If you are affected, please inform us by e-mail (istudicoach@uni-passau.de) so that we can send you further information. Alternatively, you can book a consultation appointment via Zoom with Luise Haack, iStudi Coach, on her Stud.IP profile page.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 28 July.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Innwiese lawn // City of Passau extends alcohol ban

Innwiese lawn // City of Passau extends alcohol ban

Today, the City of Passau extended the existing night-time alcohol ban, which is in force every day from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. It now not only covers the Residenzplatz but also the Ortspitze (i.e. the tip of the peninsula at the river confluence) and the entire promenade along the Inn river all the way to the railway bridge between our Philosophicum and Wiwi Buildings, as well as the adjacent open spaces (please see the map on the official announcement page [German content] for a precise overview – the ban is in effect in the yellow areas within the dotted lines). This also includes the Innwiese lawn on our campus. Signage informing the public of the alcohol ban will be installed on the site. The ban relates both to the consumption of alcoholic beverages and the carrying of alcoholic beverages in open containers.

Please be aware and adhere to this new regulation when you are on the Innwiese meadow or in the other designated areas. Also note that it is not permitted to play music or use portable (Bluetooth) speakers on the Innwiese until further notice.

Police will be conducting regular checks to ensure compliance with these regulations in the Innwiese area. Thank you!

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 21 July.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Winter semester 2021–22 // Current plans
• Reminder: vaccination drive for students on 21 July in Passau
• Open question and answer session with the University Executive
• University Library // Longer opening of the business/economics reading room
• University Library // Lapse of reading-desk reservations and reassignment in case of no-show
• Student Services Association // FAQ on BAföG updated
• Longer opening hours of the cafeteria in the refectory building

Other news from the University:

• 'Hightech Summit Bayern' at the University of Passau

Winter semester 2021–22 // Current plans

The pandemic continues to develop in a way that does not permit firm planning for every aspect of the coming winter semester. Nevertheless, based on the current infection situation, the progress concerning vaccinations and the current assessments of the expert community, we can hope that the distancing regulations will also be scrapped at universities in autumn. This would mean that we will be able to allow the number of attendees in rooms to rise to the pre-pandemic capacities. Out of these considerations, the University Executive has decided that as many courses as possible should take place in a face-to-face setting in winter semester 2021–22. There will, therefore, be no guarantee that students will be able to study all their modules entirely online during the winter semester.

However, lecturers are free to decide whether to offer their courses virtually or to return to face-to-face formats; when making this decision, they should take into account the needs of students in hardship situations, international students and those at increased risk of contracting severe covid-19.

In order to maximise the space available for in-person teaching and to facilitate planning, the University Executive has decided that all meetings of the various committees and governing bodies be conducted online. Furthermore, internal conferences and meetings should preferably be held online whenever possible.

We are excited at the prospect of bringing life back to our campus again in the winter semester. However, it is still possible that these plans change if the infection situation changes. Should we need to reassess the situation and the University's options, we will inform you here.

Reminder: vaccination drive for students on 21 July in Passau

The University and the City of Passau are offering a joint vaccination drive especially for students on 21 July. All students enrolled at the University of Passau are entitled to get vaccinated, irrespective of their home address or citizenship. The administered vaccines are Biontech or Moderna. The vaccination drive will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the vaccination centre in the "X-Point-Halle", across the road from the outdoor swimming pool (Messestraße 12, bus stop "PEB – Erlebnisbad").
To get your vaccination you have to register beforehand:

• In Stud.IP, course code 999999 – please register by 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, 15 July
• And in the Bavarian vaccination portal. You must register yourself in both systems to get the vaccination. Please note: If your registered place of residence is not Passau, please enter "Innstraße 41, 94032 Passau" as your address when registering.
• The system will suggest a vaccination appointment for you. Please ignore this and simply go to the X-Point-Halle on 21 July between 9 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. You do not need to book an appointment in advance, but you should allow some time as registration on site can take a while.

Please take the following documents with you on the day of your vaccination:

• Identity card or passport
• CampusCard and a current enrolment certificate
• The completed information sheet, which includes a medical history questionnaire and consent form
• Optional: vaccination certificate, if you have one

We will inform all registered students in good time if there is anything else to be taken into account. We hope that many of you will make use of this offer!

Open question-and-answer session with the University Executive

President Professor Ulrich Bartosch, Vice President Professor Bettina Noltenius and Head of Administration Dr Achim Dilling once again invite all interested students to a virtual open question and answer session, where you can put your questions to our University Executive live. The Zoom event will take place on Tuesday, 20 July, from 5 to 6 p.m., Stud.IP course code 6999E. The Zoom link will be announced on the Stud.IP course page. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

University Library // Longer opening of the business/economics reading room

As of this week, the business/economics (Wiwi) reading room is open daily until 10.30 p.m. during weekdays. These extended opening hours are in effect throughout the examination period, which ends on 12 August. In future, it will also be possible to book reading desks there in a third learning shift.

The number of reading desks the University Library can offer is still greatly reduced in accordance with § 24 of the 13th BayIfSMV ordinance. However, by making some optimisations to utilise the maximum legally permissible space, we have been able to add a total of 22 additional desks in the central library, the computer science/mathematics and the law faculty (Juridicum) reading rooms. Currently, a total of 967 time slots can be booked daily during the week, and 642 slots on Saturdays and Sundays. Details on desk-booking and opening hours can be found on the University Library homepage.

University Library // Lapse of reading-desk reservations and reassignment in case of no-show

We are currently experiencing very strong demand for the available reading desks. But even if all slots are fully booked at the start of the day, all expired time slots are automatically made available for booking again half an hour after the start of the respective learning shift. The University Library therefore recommends that users check for free reading desks in the various reading rooms at the following times using the booking tool or by asking the information desk staff: on weekdays at 8:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 6:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., and on weekends at 9:30 a.m., 10:00 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

The University Library also asks everyone who has booked a library desk to take up their reserved desk as soon as possible after the start of the time slot, rather than checking in shortly before the end of the cut-off period. Some waiting may be required before admission to the premises, so that you may be lose your place even if you turn up just in time.

Student Services Association // FAQ on BAföG updated

On 5 July, the Student Services Association comprehensively revised and extended its FAQ on BAföG in the covid-19 crisis on its website. The updated FAQ can be found at the Student Services Association website [German content].

Longer opening hours of the cafeteria in the refectory building

The Student Services Association is extending the opening hours of the cafeteria in the refectory building. Currently, the cafeteria is open from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Mondays to Fridays.

'Hightech Summit Bayern' at the University of Passau

The Bavarian Science Minister, Bernd Sibler, and the University Executive cordially invite all members of the University to take part in the virtual 'Hightech Summit Bayern', which will have its next stop at the University of Passau at 10 a.m. next Friday (16 July). The topic of this event will be 'Mobility of the Future'.
The Bavarian High-Tech Agenda is a technology initiative that is unparalleled in Germany thus far. In HS 10 in the University's Audimax Building, experts from our University, from Deggendorf Institute of Technology and from the business community will discuss this modernisation push for Bavaria and especially for our region. Speakers from the University of Passau: President Professor Ulrich Bartosch, Professor Tomas Sauer and Professor Alena Otto. Guest speakers: Professor Wolfgang Dorner (Deggendorf University of Technology) and Dr Alexander Wisspeintner (Micro-Epsilon Messtechnik GmbH & Co KG, Ortenburg). The event will be broadcast live from the University's Audimax on the YouTube channel of the Bavarian State Ministry of Science and the Arts.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 21 July.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Vaccination drive for students on 21 July

Vaccination drive for students on 21 July

The University and the City of Passau are offering a joint vaccination drive especially for students on 21 July. All students enrolled at the University of Passau are entitled to get vaccinated, irrespective of their home address or citizenship. The administered vaccines are Biontech or Moderna. The vaccination drive will take place from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the vaccination centre in the "X-Point-Halle", across the road from the outdoor swimming pool (Messestraße 12, bus stop "PEB – Erlebnisbad").
To get your vaccination you have to register beforehand:

• In Stud.IP, course code 999999 – please register by 8:00 a.m. on Thursday, 15 July
• And in the Bavarian vaccination portal. You must register yourself in both systems to get the vaccination. Please note: If your registered place of residence is not Passau, please enter "Innstraße 41, 94032 Passau" as your address when registering.
• The system will suggest a vaccination appointment for you. Please ignore this and simply go to the X-Point-Halle on 21 July between 9 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. You do not need to book an appointment in advance, but you should allow some time as registration on site can take a while.

Please take the following documents with you on the day of your vaccination:

• Identity card or passport
• CampusCard and a current enrolment certificate
• The completed information sheet, which includes a medical history questionnaire and consent form
• Optional: vaccination certificate, if you have one

We will inform all registered students in good time if there is anything else to be taken into account. We hope that many of you will make use of this offer!

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 14 July.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Important notice on contact information for face-to-face courses

Other news from the University:

• Student clubs and societies: register by 15 July!
• ZIM // Royalty-free music library
• Family Services // Free kindergarten places

Important notice on contact information for face-to-face courses

Please note: In accordance with § 5 sentence 1 item 1 of the thirteenth Bavarian disease control ordinance (13. BayIfSMV), as amended on 5 June 2021, everyone participating in face-to-face courses is required to register their full name and reliable contact details (i.e. phone number and optionally an e-mail address as well) in Stud.IP with immediate effect. The necessary functionality has already been activated in Stud.IP under profile – contact tracing.

Student clubs and societies: register by 15 July!

We are pleased to have vibrant and active student clubs and societies and wish to support them in any way we can. To allow us to do so, you should register your student club/society. As an officially registered Hochschulgruppe, you can book rooms at the University and may be eligible for financial support. If you have already registered yours, please remember that the registration has to be resubmitted by 15 July every year. We regret that we cannot consider late registrations. For the registration form and further information for student clubs and societies visit the student societies registration page [German content].

ZIM // Royalty-free music library

From 12 July 2021, ZIM will offer a royalty-free music library open to all University members. Please read the PDF document on how to use the royalty-free music library for details.

Family Services // Free kindergarten places

At short notice, kindergarten places have become available for September 2021 for children of students and staff of the University of Passau who reside in the city area. If you need a kindergarten place, please send an e-mail to the Diversity and Gender Equality Section by 12 noon tomorrow, Thursday, 8 July, 12 noon. The e-mail address is familienservice@uni-passau.de. For this and other current information for parents and families, read this month's Family Services newsletter.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 14 July.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Innwiese lawn: measures taken by the University
• Current guidelines for on-site activities
• Vaccination drives for students

Other news from the University:

• Peer Programme for those interested in a doctorate
• Diversity Mentoring Programme mentUP*// Registration deadline extended to 7 July
• Exam timetable for exams organised by the Examinations Office
• Refurbishment works: brief interruption of the power supply to the WIWI building tomorrow morning
• Campus Portal maintenance on 5 July 

Innwiese lawn: measures taken by the University

Due to repeated instances of large parties and disturbances on the Innwiese lawn, the University, the local government, the police and the representatives of the student body have agreed to apply the following rules on the Innwiese until further notice:

• Playing music is prohibited. This applies in particular to portable speakers (e.g. Bluetooth speakers)
• Drinking alcohol is permitted until 11 p.m. only
• Security personnel and police forces will increase their presence and carry out stop and search inspections

We regret that these measures are necessary. We hope you understand that the current situation leaves us with no alternatives. We would like the Innwiese lawn to be a space for social and convivial encounters that remains accessible to everyone. Please support our efforts to achieve a happy AND harmonious community with good will.

Current guidelines for on-site activities

In accordance with the 13th BayIfSMV (Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance) framework, the university has put together guidelines for on-site activities, which apply with immediate effect. Please see the PDF document or the Facility Management web pages (German) for details. 

Vaccination drives for students

The Bavarian government plans to offer „targeted vaccination drives for students in order to enable more on-campus activities in the coming winter semester“. This was announced in a press release (in German) by the Bavarian State Ministry of Science and the Arts today. “In cooperation with higher education institutions and communities, we can coordinate the offers of vaccination appointments in such a way that the existing capacities and vaccine stocks are utilised comprehensively and efficiently,” said Science Minister Bernd Sibler. The Bavarian State Ministry of Science and the Arts and the Bavarian State Ministry of Health and Care are currently working with higher education providers and communities on producing a plan for targeted vaccination drives for students. This should be published soon. We will then inform you of any news about this topic in the Corona-update.

Peer Programme for those interested in a doctorate

Did you enjoy research-based learning during your studies? Perhaps you have already considered pursuing a career in academia? A doctorate is the first step on this career path. Our new peer programme "NaWi" for early career researchers is there to offer you support as you embark on a doctorate:

• Get advice as you decide whether a doctorate is right for you
• Get support as you obtain financing
• Find out what doctorate study is like at the University of Passau by networking with mentors
• Access information, advice and further qualifications

For more information, and to apply, visit the websites of the Graduate Centre. 

Diversity Mentoring Programme mentUP*// Registration deadline extended to 7 July

Are you looking to progress your career in academia? Or perhaps you would like to take on managerial responsibilities in future? The University’s Diversity Mentoring Programme mentUP* supports your strategic career planning efforts, enhances your professional skillset, and prepares you for managerial roles. The University of Passau uses mentUP* to support those belonging to groups that are currently underrepresented in universities and in managerial roles. You can apply if you are a student on a Master’s programme, a student about to take your state examination, a doctoral student, a post-doc or an early career researcher in any of our faculties. The next iteration of the programme will commence in October 2021. Apply by 7 July 2021 if you would like to participate.

Exam timetable for exams organised by the Examinations Office

The Examinations Office has published the final exam timetable for centrally organised exams in the summer semester 2021 (German document). For information about on-site exams, please visit the Examination Office web pages. 

Refurbishment works: brief interruption of the power supply to the WIWI building tomorrow morning

On 1 July, contractors will work on the electricity network in the School of Business, Economics and Information Systems (Innstrasse 27). Unfortunately, this work cannot be completed without disrupting the power supply. Between 3 a.m. and 9 a.m., there will be no electric power available on the ground floor of the building and the telephone and internet connections in the entire building will be unavailable. For questions, please contact the ZIM Support during its opening hours.

Campus Portal maintenance on 5 July 

On 5 July, the Campus Portal will be unavailable from 4 p.m. until approximately 8 p.m. due to scheduled maintenance work. For students, this means that you won’t be able to print out student status documents or amend your personal details online during this time period. We will make every effort to minimise the duration of the disruption. For questions, please contact the ZIM Support during its opening hours. 

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 7 July.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Mask-wearing requirement on campus // Update
• Mental health in times of covid-19 // Results of the student survey

Mask-wearing requirement on campus // Update

The current rules with regard to the wearing of face masks on campus have been slightly relaxed: according to the framework concept for the implementation of the 13th Bavarian disease control ordinance drawn up jointly by Universität Bayern e.V., the Bavarian State Ministry of Science and the Arts and the Bavarian State Ministry of Health and Care, everyone above the age of 16 must wear an FFP2 mask in the buildings on campus. University staff are required to wear surgical masks in accordance with health and safety regulations. Furthermore, FFP2 masks must be worn at all times when on library premises, including in the reading rooms. Children and adolescents aged 6 to 16 need only wear a surgical mask.

Mental health in times of covid-19 // Results of the student survey

With this update, you will receive the results of the student survey [German] conducted by our Quality Management team during winter semester 2020–21. These results are extremely important for us to better understand the real impact of the covid-19 crisis on our students and to identify where we need to find answers and solutions particularly urgently. The Vice President for Studies, Teaching and Ethics cordially invites you to add to this initial list and to contribute your ideas and experience to this important debate. For details, see the attached letter from the Vice President for Studies, Teaching and Ethics [German].

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 30 June.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Examinations: No covid-19 free-attempt arrangement in the current summer semester 2021

Examinations: No covid-19 free-attempt arrangement in the current summer semester 2021

Please note that there is no covid-19-related free attempt arrangement for examinations written in summer semester 2021 (the current summer semester). The free attempt arrangement only applies to exams written in the past two semesters, summer semester 2020 and winter semester 2020/21.

This means that any exams you fail or miss will be counted as usual and will reduce the remaining number of attempts available to you in accordance with the study and examination regulation for your degree programme.

If you are unsure whether you will be able to appear for the exams or successfully complete them, you can still cancel your registration before the withdrawal deadline. However, you will have to hurry, as the deadline for the Faculty of Business, Economics and Information Systems, the Faculty of Arts and Humanities and the 1st examination date for the Faculty of Computer Science and Mathematics is tomorrow, Friday 18 June 2021.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 23 June.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Upcoming summer and winter semesters 2021–22 // A first outlook
• Reminder: Primary vaccination by occupational health physician
• Mental health in times of covid-19 // Joint University Executive and Student Representatives' Council information event

Other news from the University:

• 18 June 2021 is the final deadline for exam registrations and withdrawals

Upcoming summer and winter semesters 2021–22 // A first outlook

The 13th Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance (13. BayIfSMV §23 [German text]) of 5 June 2021, combined with the Bavarian Cabinet's resolution on the easing of restrictions at universities [German text] makes a gradual revival of campus life at the University possible. In a video message [English subtitles available – click on cc], President Ulrich Bartosch addresses all members of the University with an outlook for the summer and winter semester.

The main points at a glance:

• The University of Passau welcomes the prospect of offering face-to-face courses this summer. The University Executive is currently finalising a concept for the use of buildings and open spaces on campus in cooperation with the faculties and the administrative units. Please note that you cannot book any rooms at the moment. We will keep you informed of further developments.
• The current summer semester will, in any case, be conducted online until it ends in September. The regulations for in-person and online examinations will also remain effective as before.
• For the coming winter semester, the University favours a mix of face-to-face and online courses. The winter semester is not planned as purely an online semester, unless the prevailing conditions make this absolutely necessary.
• Therefore, we recommend that all students make preparations to return to Passau for the next semester and to seek accommodation in good time.

We will keep you informed of further developments.

Reminder: Primary vaccination by occupational health physician

The University of Passau supports the nationwide vaccination drive by offering a second opportunity to get vaccinated: on 18 June, starting from 1 p.m., our occupational health physician Dr Stefan Hafner will be offering primary vaccinations with the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine to employees who have not yet been vaccinated. All university staff who have not yet been vaccinated – including student employees (e.g. student assistants, graduate assistants) – are eligible for workplace vaccination.

If you would like to receive your first dose, please register by Thursday, 17 June 2021, 10 a.m. on Stud.IP (code 99999J) or using this direct link: Covid-19 vaccination. You will be advised of the exact time of your vaccination appointment by e-mail once this registration deadline expires.

Please take along the following documents to your appointment:

• your national ID card (EU citizens), electronic residence title (eAufenthaltstitel card) or passport
• your certificate of vaccination
• your health insurance card
• the completed and signed vaccination form (you can download this from the Stud.IP course page)

NB: To protect your privacy, please make yourself 'invisible' on the list of participants on the Stud.IP course page.

As this vaccination is a part of occupational health management, the occupational physician can administer this vaccination during working hours. Staff who are required to record their working times should book 'Dienstgang Gehen' on the time tracking terminal for their vaccination appointment and 'Dienstgang Kommen' once they have returned. We will advise you of the date, time and place of your vaccination in good time.

Important: Just like all other providers, we will only be told whether the ordered vaccination doses have actually been delivered at short notice. Please understand that we cannot guarantee that you will receive your vaccination. We want to accommodate as many vaccination appointments as possible. If not enough vaccination doses are delivered, we will prioritise registrations based on age in consultation with the occupational physician (descending order by date of birth).

Mental health in times of covid-19 // Joint University Executive and Student Representatives' Council information event

Covid-19 has been with us for three semesters now and has made our everyday lives more difficult in a great many ways. As with all segments of the population, this has had a detrimental effect on the mental health of university students and staff – a fact that, unfortunately, receives too little attention on the whole. We, Vice President Bettina Noltenius and the Student Representatives' Council (AStA), want to change this in cooperation with the chaplains and psychologists of the University of Passau. Our initiative will kick off with an information event at which relevant contact persons will introduce themselves and where you will find out about counselling options and where to seek help. By attending this event you do not enter into any obligations of any kind, so you can just take a look and see if there is anything on offer that suits your needs. Following the introductory round, the meeting will split into breakout sessions on specific topics (anxiety, coping with stressful situations etc.).

This event is aimed at all members of the University of Passau and will take place via zoom. We wish to stress that you can participate with perfect anonymity and you can make yourself invisible by using the Stud.IP settings.

This is planned as a series of events, which be expanded upon in the coming semester to accommodate your wishes and needs more closely. Registrations are open now via Stud.IP (course code 25100).

18 June 2021 is the final deadline for exam registrations and withdrawals

Please note that the registration and withdrawal period for examinations in summer semester 2021 ends on 18 June 2021. After this date you will no longer be able to register for exams or withdraw your registrations.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 23 June.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Corona rapid testing station (test bus) on campus no longer available as of 14 June

Corona rapid testing station (test bus) on campus no longer available as of 14 June

The rapid testing station on campus grounds will be discontinued until further notice on 14 June. Due to reassuringly low 7-day incidence values in recent weeks, there has been a significant reduction in testing requirements in the Passau area and thus also a drop in the utilisation of the testing station on campus. If there should be an increased need for testing in and around the campus again in the future, the University will be able to swiftly reinstate this testing facility, which has been provided in partnership with Eichberger Reisen and Kurpark Apotheke, Bad Füssing. Head of Administration, Dr Achim Dilling, said: 'The campus test bus is an additional service for the University and the city and an expression of our solidarity and responsibility. We would like to thank Eichberger Reisen, the City of Passau and all those involved in making this testing facility available in cooperation with our Facilities Management Division and the Corona team of the University.'

Other central rapid testing stations in Passau will continue to operate. You can find them in the Rapid testing portal of the City of Passau [in German].

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 16 June.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• 13th Bavarian disease control ordinance // Provisions affecting the University
• Primary vaccination by occupational health physician // Second appointment offered
• From 14 June: longer opening hours for Central Library and Juridicum reading room

Other news from the University:

• Sports Centre // Guest lectures on health topics
• MentUP* diversity mentoring programme // Apply by 15 June

13th Bavarian disease control ordinance // Provisions affecting the University

The 13th Bavarian ordinance on infection prevention measures (BayIfSMV, 13. BayIfSMV §23 [text in German]) of 5 June 2021, in conjunction with the Bavarian state cabinet's decision on reopening of university facilities [text in German], will initially bring about the following changes for life on our university campus:

• FFP2-mask-wearing requirement throughout the campus: To our regret, the current ordinance still requires that FFP2 masks must be worn at all times on campus, both indoors and in outdoor areas. The University Executive has contacted the relevant authorities on this point and suggested that a review of the proportionality of this measure should be conducted with a view to relaxing this obligation. We will keep you informed of further developments and request that you adhere to the mask-wearing obligation.
• Mask-wearing requirement for staff: Staff working on campus are obliged to wear a surgical mask. You may remove the mask when you are alone in your office.
• No change to the FFP2 mask-wearing requirement in the reading rooms: FFP2 masks must be worn at all times when on library premises, including in the reading rooms. The University Library wishes to remind you that compliance with the required health and safety measures is the basis for opening the library. Non-compliance may therefore lead to exclusion from the use of a reading desk.
• Covid-19 rules: In addition to the mask-wearing requirement, the established rules – the 1.5-metre minimum distance, the coughing/sneezing etiquette and maintaining good hand hygiene – remain in place.
• Return to face-to-face teaching: The University of Passau welcomes the prospect of offering face-to-face courses this summer. The University Executive, the faculties and the administrative divisions will discuss, during the course of the week, how we can gradually bring our campus back to life again and optimise the use of our buildings and open spaces over the coming weeks. Please note that you cannot book any rooms at the moment. We will keep you informed of further developments.
• Online teaching and examinations: The current summer semester will, in any case, be conducted online until it ends in September. The regulations for in-person and online examinations will also remain effective as before.

Primary vaccination by occupational health physician // Second appointment offered

The University of Passau supports the nationwide vaccination drive by offering a second opportunity to get vaccinated: on 18 June, starting from 1 p.m., our occupational health physician Dr Stefan Hafner will be offering primary vaccinations with the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine to employees who have not yet been vaccinated. All university staff who have not yet been vaccinated – including student employees (e.g. student assistants, graduate assistants) – are eligible for workplace vaccination.

If you would like to receive your first dose, please register by Thursday, 17 June 2021, 10 a.m. on Stud.IP (code 99999J) or using this direct link: Covid-19 vaccination. You will be advised of the exact time of your vaccination appointment by e-mail once this registration deadline expires.

Please take along the following documents to your appointment:

• your national ID card (EU citizens), electronic residence title (eAufenthaltstitel card) or passport
• your certificate of vaccination
• your health insurance card
• the completed and signed vaccination form (you can download this from the Stud.IP course page)

NB: To protect your privacy, please make yourself 'invisible' on the list of participants on the Stud.IP course page.

As this vaccination is a part of occupational health management, the occupational physician can administer this vaccination during working hours. Staff who are required to record their working times should book 'Dienstgang Gehen' on the time tracking terminal for their vaccination appointment and 'Dienstgang Kommen' once they have returned. We will advise you of the date, time and place of your vaccination in good time.

Important: Just like all other providers, we will only be told whether the ordered vaccination doses have actually been delivered at short notice. Please understand that we cannot guarantee that you will receive your vaccination. We want to accommodate as many vaccination appointments as possible. If not enough vaccination doses are delivered, we will prioritise registrations based on age in consultation with the occupational physician (descending order by date of birth).

From 14 June: longer opening hours for Central Library and Juridicum reading room

The Central Library and Juridicum reading room will be open in the later evening hours (weekdays only) from Monday, 14 June 2021. This means that study slots between 6 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. will once again be available for booking. For details see the UB opening hours and the anny booking page.

Sports Centre // Guest lectures on health topics

The Sports Centre will offer guest lectures on the topics Sleep is Key – durch besseren Schlaf zu mehr Konzentration und Leistungsfähigkeit (17 June 21), Im digitalen Dauerstress? Der richtige Umgang mit dem Smartphone (21 June 2021) and Healthy Habits – für mehr Motivation, Freude und Entspannung (1 July 2021). The workshops, hosted by health professionals, will take place via Zoom. Registrations and further details via the recreational sports registration page [in German].

MentUP* diversity mentoring programme // Apply by 15 June

With mentUP*, the University of Passau promotes members of groups that have so far been underrepresented at universities and in leadership positions. It is aimed at master's students, state examination candidates, doctoral students, postdocs and habilitands of all faculties. Would you like to develop your career in academia or take on an executive position in the future? The mentUP* diversity mentoring programme helps you to plan your career strategically, provides career-relevant knowledge and prepares you for future leadership and management roles. The next round starts in October 2021. Applications are still accepted until 15 June 2021.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 16 June.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Vaccinations now available for employees residing abroad // Current status

From the University:

• State examination dates for teacher education programmes are now online
• Information from Family Services
• Starter grants rolled out for prospective doctoral students at the University of Passau

Vaccinations now available for employees residing abroad // Current status

After consulting with the City of Passau, we are happy to inform you that vaccinations are now also available for university employees whose place of residence is not in Germany, e.g. who live in Austria but have a regular working contract in Germany that comes with health insurance. This new regulation replaces the previous rule by which employees of the University of Passau (priority 3) were eligible for vaccination at the municipal vaccination centre of the City of Passau only if either their primary or their secondary place of residence was in Passau. 

If you reside abroad but work at the university and are interested in being vaccinated locally in Passau, you can now provide the university address instead of your own on the online portal of the Bavarian vaccination centres. At your appointment, you will be expected to present not only your proof of employment with the university but also your certificate of residence, which can be from Austria for example. Please note that this exemption only applies if you actually work predominantly in Passau itself and not remotely from home.

State examination dates for teacher education programmes are now online

The preliminary examination dates for the First State Examination for teacher education programmes in autumn 2021 have been published on the website of the Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs. This information is also provided by our Examinations Office on the webpages for teacher education programmes.

Information from Family Services

Good news: This month saw the 100th congratulatory package dispatched on the occasion of the birth of a child. Check out the latest news and interesting facts for mothers, fathers and families on the university campus in the current monthly newsletter of the university's Family Services.

Starter grants rolled out for prospective doctoral students at the University of Passau

The dates for centrally organised exams in summer semester 2021 have been published on the pages of the Central Examinations Office. The exact exam times and rooms will be announced at the beginning of July 2021. Please check the relevant Chair's website and/or Stud.IP for the dates and formats of the non-centrally organised exams.

Information for students: Please note that you can register for exams and withdraw  from exams (if you are sure that you do not wish to take the exam) in HISQIS until 18 June 2021. Registrations and withdrawals will not be possible after this date.

Reminder: University elections // Please vote by postal ballot!

With its starter grant, the University of Passau has launched a new funding programme to support and financially empower highly qualified graduates transitioning to their doctorate. 

The purpose of the grant is to give them an opportunity, initially over a period of six months, to start planning the first few steps of their doctorate and arrange further funding for their doctoral studies. In the scope of this grant, students are employed as research assistants by the University of Passau on an eighty-hour contract. The first four starter grants will be awarded this year.

You may be eligible for a starter grant if:

• you are planning to pursue a doctorate at the University of Passau and have already been in touch with a potential supervisor;
• you are in the final stages of your studies or have recently completed your studies;
• you are still looking for bridging funds to give you an opportunity to develop your doctoral project and arrange funding for your doctorate (doctoral scholarship or a position funded by an external partner).

Interested? Find out more at the Graduate Centre by checking out the requirements and the application procedure and make sure to apply by no later than 31 August 2021!

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 9 June.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Primary vaccination by occupational health physician // For employees
• Sports Centre // First in-person university sports courses

Primary vaccination by occupational health physician // For employees

The University of Passau supports the nationwide vaccination drive: starting at 8:30 am on 8 June, our occupational health physician Dr. Stefan Hafner will be offering primary vaccinations with the BioNTech/Pfizer vaccine to employees who have not yet been vaccinated. All university employees who have not yet been vaccinated – including student employees – are eligible for workplace vaccination. 

If you would like to receive primary vaccination, please register by no later than Monday, 7 June 2021, 10 am directly on StudIP under event number 99999I or use the direct link Covid-19 vaccination. You will be advised of the exact time of your vaccination appointment by email once this registration deadline expires.
Please take along the following documents to your appointment:

• personal ID
• certificate of vaccination
• completed and signed vaccination form (available in the StudIP event, one of the files available for download)

N.B.: To protect your privacy, please make yourself 'invisible' on the list of participants ('Teilnehmende') in the StudIP event.

As this vaccination is a part of occupational health management, the occupational physician can administer this vaccination during working hours. Employees who are required to keep records of their work should book 'Dienstgang Gehen' on the time tracking terminal for their vaccination appointment and 'Dienstgang Kommen' once they have returned. We will advise you of the date, time and place of your vaccination in good time. 

Important: Just like all other providers, we will only be told whether the ordered vaccination doses have actually been delivered at short notice. Please understand that we are unable to guarantee that you will receive your vaccination. We want to accommodate as many vaccination appointments as possible. If not enough vaccination doses are delivered, we will prioritise registrations based on age in consultation with the occupational physician (descending order by date of birth).

Primary vaccination by occupational health physician // For employees

Now that the Corona restrictions are being eased, the fitness centre and tennis facilities will once again become available for in-person workouts on prior appointment starting on 31 May 2021. Online registration is now open. If the incidence remains low, the Sports Centre will expand its range of courses as soon as possible while ensuring due compliance with the currently applicable hygiene regulations.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 2 June.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• University Library // Reading rooms to open at weekends as of 12 June
• Self-test kits available for students to encourage face-to-face teaching
• Student Services Association // Practice rooms have reopened

From the University:

• Dates for centrally organised in-person exams
• University elections // Please vote by postal ballot!

University Library // Reading rooms to open at weekends as of 12 June

From Saturday, 12 June 2021, the Central Library and the Nikolakloster, Business & Economics and Computer Science & Mathematics reading rooms will once again remain open at weekends. Study slots from 9:00 am through 1:30 pm and 2:00 pm through 6:30 pm. will be available for reservation.

Self-test kits available for students to encourage face-to-face teaching

The Free State of Bavaria has adopted a test concept for universities. This test concept provides that student testing is to be implemented as a targeted intervention for infection control with a view to facilitating, encouraging and promoting face-to-face teaching - which is currently subject to restrictions - in an effective and workable manner. The general and specific requirements, recommendations and information on hygiene and infection control – especially the relevant provisions of the Bavarian disease control ordinance and the applicable framework concept for hygiene - will in no way be affected by the use of tests and must continue to be observed. This specifically applies to the minimum distance rule and the mask-wearing obligations wherever these are in place. 

Self-test kits will be available at the University Library reading rooms during the respective opening hours. Self-test kits will be provided as needed. The students' personal data will not be recorded: students will merely be asked to present their student ID.

Student Services Association: Practice rooms have reopened

On 26 May 2021, the Student Services Association's Cultural Promotions Office reopened its practice rooms. Use is limited to 2 persons at a time. Effective immediately, individuals and duos wishing to practice music can book practice times online. Cultural groups should contact the Kulturbüro (Culture Office). For details, please go to the Student Services Association's website.

Dates for centrally organised in-person exams

The dates for centrally organised exams in summer semester 2021 have been published on the pages of the Central Examinations Office. The exact exam times and rooms will be announced at the beginning of July 2021. Please check the relevant Chair's website and/or Stud.IP for the dates and formats of the non-centrally organised exams.

Information for students: Please note that you can register for exams and withdraw  from exams (if you are sure that you do not wish to take the exam) in HISQIS until 18 June 2021. Registrations and withdrawals will not be possible after this date.

Reminder: University elections // Please vote by postal ballot!

This year's university elections will be held on 30 June 2021. Due to the current covid-19 situation, we are asking all eligible voters to vote by postal ballot whenever possible, rather than coming to vote in person. This is to protect your own health and the health of all those participating and involved in the elections. 

All eligible voters wishing to vote by postal ballot must request a ballot in writing from the Elections Office. The Elections Office must be in receipt of the completed Postal Ballot Request Form by 16 June 2021 (the 14th day prior to the election). For those planning to fetch their postal ballot in person, the registration deadline is seven days prior to the elections (23  June 2021). The Request Form may also be sent by telegram, telex, fax, email or other documentable means of electronic communication. You will find the form on the website of the Elections Office.

The Centre for Information Technology and Media Services (ZIM) has set up a particularly convenient registration method for your postal voting ballot – via Stud.IP. Please log in to Stud.IP and enter the course code that corresponds to your faculty:

66500    Ballot request for students at the Faculty of Law
66501    Ballot request for students at the Faculty of Business, Economics and Information Systems
66502    Ballot request for students at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities
66503    Ballot request for students at the Faculty of Computer Science and Mathematics

Your ballot papers were sent out on 26 May 2021. For further information on the elections, please visit the website of the Elections Office.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 2 June.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Vaccination priority level 3 for employees of the Free State of Bavaria // latest developments

From the University:

• University Elections // Please vote by postal ballot

Vaccination priority level 3 for employees of the Free State of Bavaria // latest developments

The software for the Bavarian vaccination centres portal has now been updated to ameliorate the level-3 vaccination responses for Bavarian public-sector employees, which include University staff. From now on, it is sufficient to select 'Ich arbeite in einer Kinder- oder Jugendbetreuung, Schule bzw. Hochschule' and then 'Hochschule' for the system to assign you to priority level 3. If you are already registered on the system, you should proceed as follows:

1. Deselect the 'Hochschule' category
2. Save your profile
3. Re-select the 'Hochschule' category
4. Save your profile

This prioritisation expressly applies to all students (including doctoral students) who are also employees of the University (e.g. student assistants, graduate teaching/research assistants etc.). We recommend that student employees bring their employment contract in addition to their orange student ID when going to the vaccination centre.

University Elections // Please vote by postal ballot

This year's university elections will be held on 30 June 2021. Due to the covid-19 situation, we are asking all eligible voters to vote by postal ballot whenever possible, rather than coming in to vote in person.

For postal voting, you have to request your ballot in writing from the Elections Office, e.g. by sending the completed Postal Ballot Request Form, by 16 June 2021 – the 14th day prior to the election pursuant to § 12(2) sentence 1 BayHSchWO (Bavarian university elections regulation). If you are planning to fetch your postal ballot personally rather than have it sent to you by post, the registration date is extended to 23 June 2021. We recommend that you send the registration form by e-mail, although you can also send it by fax. You can find the form on the website of the Elections Office.

Alternatively, the Centre for Information Technology and Media Services (ZIM) has set up a particularly convenient registration method for your postal voting ballot – via Stud.IP. Please log in to Stud.IP and enter the course code that corresponds to your faculty:

66500    Ballot request for students at the Faculty of Law
66501    Ballot request for students at the Faculty of Business, Economics and Information Systems
66502    Ballot request for students at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities
66503    Ballot request for students at the Faculty of Computer Science and Mathematics

Once you click 'Go to course', you are registered for postal voting for the respective faculty. Your ballot papers will be sent out on 26 May 2021, but you can request your postal voting ballot paper right now.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 26 May.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Further opening steps of the city of Passau // Provisions affecting the University
• Vaccination priority level 3 for employees of the Free State of Bavaria // Addendum for doctoral students

Other news from the University:

• New edition of the Family Services newsletter

Further opening steps of the city of Passau // Provisions affecting the University

Passau (urban area) has been below the 7-day incidence level of 35 for five consecutive days. Therefore, as of today, Wednesday, further relaxations are in force in the city area, and the University will follow the city's lead. This means:

• Masks are no longer compulsory in the outdoor areas of the University of Passau.
• Masks must, however, still be worn at all times inside the buildings and in all areas of the University Library.
• You may form groups of up to 10 with people from up to three households.
• The outdoor seating areas at the refectory and the Audimax cafeteria have reopened.

The following rules apply to the Innwiese lawn and all other green areas on campus:

• No barbecues and parties are allowed, nor are Beer Pong and other, similar party-type games.
• Groups of up to 10 people are allowed.

The positive trend in Passau shows that we have got many things right with regard to disease control and responsible cooperation. We want to make sure this trend continues. Therefore, please remember that the distance – hygiene – mask rules (in German this is dubbed 'AHA-Regeln') still apply here on campus as well as throughout the city: keep your distance, wash your hands and wear a face mask in crowded areas. Thank you for doing your part!

Vaccination priority level 3 for employees of the Free State of Bavaria // Addendum for doctoral students

With regard to the special update of 6 May, we would like to draw your attention once again to the following points: In order to use the web portal of the Bavarian vaccination centres , you must place two checkmarks in the section 'Ich arbeite in Einrichtungen zur Aufrechterhaltung des öffentlichen Lebens':

1. 'Verfassungsorgane / Regierung / Verwaltung / Justiz'
2. 'in leitender bzw. besonders relevanter Position in einer der o.g. Tätigkeiten'

This prioritisation also explicitly applies to student employees or doctoral students who are also employed at the University. We recommend that student employees bring their employment contract in addition to their orange student ID when going to the vaccination centre.

New edition of the Family Services newsletter

This month's Family Services newsletter is out, with lots of useful and important information for mothers, fathers and families at our University.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 19 May.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Covid-19 vaccinations: priority 3 for Bavarian public-sector employees // Information for student assistants

Covid-19 vaccinations: priority 3 for Bavarian public-sector employees // Information for student assistants

For vaccinations, those working for public-sector organisations (constitutional bodies, governments, public administrations etc.) are now in priority level 3 (increased priority). The University of Passau is considered to belong to this group of organisations. This prioritisation expressly applies to students working for the University of Passau as well. However, we have received numerous e-mails in which the senders reported having difficulty finding the correct answers to indicate in the Bavarian vaccination portal.

Step-by-step instructions:

• Log in to the web portal for the Bavarian vaccination centres by clicking on ‘Ich habe bereits einen Account’. If you do not yet have an account, you can set one up (‘Registrierung starten’) – for help you can watch our how-to video for detailed instructions; however, please be aware that this video was made using a slightly older version of the portal.
• Once you are logged in, check that your details are selected and click on ‘Person auswählen’.
• Then click on ‘Daten ändern’. You will have to confirm a ‘Wichtig zu beachten’ box by ticking the box and clicking on ‘Bestätigen’. The box informs you that you have to bring an ID and documentary evidence of any risk factors you indicate in the portal when you go to the vaccination centre.
• Now, to raise your priority to level 3, you have to expand the item ‘Ich arbeite in Einrichtungen zur Aufrechterhaltung des öffentlichen Lebens.’
  Then tick the following two boxes:
  • ‘Verfassungsorgane / Regierung / Verwaltung / Justiz’ and
  • ‘in leitender bzw. besonders relevanter Position in einer der o.g. Tätigkeiten’
• That’s it! You should now be in priority 3.

As documentary proof of your entitlement to priority 3, we recommend that all student employees show their employment contract in addition to their orange student ID (CampusCard) at the vaccination centre.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 12 May.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Mask requirement on campus still in effect
• Incidence-dependent reading desk availability in the University Library
• Reminder // Additional rapid testing opportunity on campus from 7 May onwards

Other news from the University:

• 'Ask the University Executive': Next session on 11 May

Mask requirement on campus still in effect

In the latest general decree [German], the City of Passau has reduced the masking requirement to the Klostergarten and the Inn promenade and surrounding areas. A precise description of the areas can be found on the information page of the City of Passau [German]. Please note that masks are still required on the entire campus and in the buildings of the University of Passau. Please continue to observe the rules and help us keep the risk of infection on campus as low as possible for all of us. Thank you!

Incidence-dependent reading desk availability in the University Library

According to the Twelfth Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance (12th BayIfSMV), last amended on 27 April 2021, the University Library must reduce the number of bookable desks by approximately 40 percent over a period of three days if the incidence value exceeds 100. If the opposite is true, and the incidence is below 100 for five days, the number of bookable desks can be increased. If the scheme changes, the number is adapted after two working days. Therefore, in the University Library's booking management system 'anny', the period of slots bookable in advance will be reduced to two days. For further information please always check the University Library website.

Reminder // Additional rapid testing opportunity on campus from 7 May onwards

The University and the City of Passau are cooperating to set up another rapid testing station on the campus grounds. A test omnibus (in German: Schnelltest-Bus) will be available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at Innstrasse 45a (the former Spedition Ehret site between the ITZ and the Administration Building). This offer is made by company Eichberger Reisen in cooperation with the pharmacy Kurpark Apotheke in Bad Füssing, which is responsible for organising and carrying out the tests in accordance with a strictly quality-controlled procedure. The offer will start on Friday, 7 May 2021. Further information and the registration portal will be made available in time at the rapid testing portal of the city of Passau [German].

'Ask the University Executive': Next session on 11 May

President Professor Ulrich Bartosch, Vice President Professor Bettina Noltenius and Head of Administration Dr Achim Dilling once again invite all interested students to a virtual open question and answer session, where you can put your questions to our University Executive live.
The event will take place from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. on 11 March. The Stud.IP course code is 69999C (the zoom link will be posted in Stud.IP).
We are looking forward to seeing you there!

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 12 May.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• New disease control ordinance // Provisions affecting the University
• Additional rapid testing opportunity on campus from 7 May onwards
• Reduction of the number of bookable library desk in the reading rooms of the University Library
• Border entry of students and doctoral researchers from non-EU countries

Other news from the University:

• Examinations // Registration and withdrawal deadlines
• Funding for student projects in the summer semester
• Diversity Day on 18 May

New disease control ordinance // Provisions affecting the University

The fourth federal infection protection act (Infektionsschutzgesetz), adopted on 22 April 2021, has already come into force. Last Friday, the Bavarian university executives had the opportunity to discuss the current legal situation with the Bavarian State Ministry of Science and the Arts. This resulted in the following:

• The University is bound by both the 12th Bavarian disease control ordinance and the federal infection protection act. This means there will still be no face-to-face courses at the universities, regardless of the incidence figure.
• In accordance with the 12th Bavarian disease control ordinance the universities are, however, permitted to hold laboratory, art, music and practical sports courses in line with the given hygiene concepts, irrespective of incidence, until further notice.
• Libraries and archives can still be opened under the current regulations – you can, therefore, continue to use the existing University Library services.
• In-person exams are permitted if a minimum distance of 1.5 m is maintained between all participants and the other requirements of the hygiene concepts are met.

If there are any changes, we will inform you here.

Additional rapid testing opportunity on campus from 7 May onwards

The University and the City of Passau are cooperating to set up another rapid testing station on the campus grounds. A test omnibus (in German: 'Schnelltest-Bus') will be available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 noon at Innstrasse 45a (the former Spedition Ehret site between the ITZ and the Administration Building). This offer is made by company Eichberger Reisen in cooperation with the pharmacy Kurpark Apothekein Bad Füssing, which is responsible for organising and carrying out the tests in accordance with a strictly quality-controlled procedure. The offer will start on Friday, 7 May 2021. Further information and the link to the rapid testing registration portal of the City of Passau (German) will be made available in time on our website.

Reduction of the number of bookable library desk in the reading rooms of the University Library

Due to the provisions of the 12th Bavarian disease control ordinance (BayIfSMV) of 27 April, the University Library has to reduce the number of desks available to book for visits of more than one hour if the 7-day incidence figure exceeds 100. Therefore, from coming Monday, 3 May, only about 60 percent of the previously available desks will be bookable. The University Library will offset this loss of desk availability by extending the opening hours of the the central library to the weekends in May. We will keep you informed about any further developments.

Border entry of students and doctoral researchers from non-EU countries

As announced by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and the German Rectors' Conference (HRK), students and doctoral candidates from non-EU countries entering Germany for the purpose of studying for a degree or as an exchange student will no longer be required to submit a special certificate to indicate that their physical presence is required. The offer letter from the university is sufficient. You can also find this information in the Border entry FAQs of the German Federal Ministry of the Interior. Nevertheless, the University of Passau will continue to provide a certificate of required in-person attendance for students and doctoral researchers from non-EU countries; please request yours by e-mail if you need one. Exchange students should contact Stefanie Dallmeier, degree-seeking students Luise Haack.

Examinations // Registration and withdrawal deadlines

The announcement of the registration and withdrawal deadlines for the summer semester 2021 as well as general information on exam registration can now be found on our semester-related information web page. If you have any problems registering for exams, please contact your examinations officer in the Examinations Office. You always have to register beforehand, during the registration period, for all exams you intend to sit in the respective semester. Students who have not registered for an examination are not entitled to sit the examination.

Funding for student projects in the summer semester

Even in times of virtual teaching, the University wishes to support student initiatives and activities. Until 9 May, students and student societies can apply for funding for their projects. For further information visit https://www.uni-passau.de/studium/campus-und-kultur/studentische-gruppen/projektfoerderung/ (this page is only available in German).

Diversity Day on 18 May

This year, the University of Passau is once again participating in the nationwide Diversity Day on 18 May, where we will be putting on various activities. All staff and students who are interested are invited get a change of perspective by taking part in online diversity impulse workshops involving roleplay. For further information please visit the Diversity Day website. In order to continue the discourse on the topic of diversity on campus, Vice President Christina Hansen and the Diversity and Gender Equality Section cordially invite you to the panel discussion on diversity processes at academic institutions ('Diversityprozesse an wissenschaftlichen Einrichtungen – ein „besonderes Gewässer“ für Veränderungsprozesse'). This round table also marks the conclusion of the UniVersity lecture series.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 5 May.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Second covid emergency act is now in effect
• Underground car park closed on 26 April
• Please stick to the rules!

Second covid emergency act is now in effect

The covid-19-related changes to the Bavarian higher education act will now apply for the 2020–21 winter semester and the 2021 summer semester.

In practical terms this means that, first off, deadlines tied to a specific number of subject semesters (and therefore also to the standard period of study) would be automatically postponed or extended by one semester. Second, the arrangements affecting students' individual standard period of study would be extended to the winter semester 2020–21 and summer semester 2021. The maximum BAföG funding period would be extended accordingly. You can also read up on this information in our updated FAQ section.

Underground car park closed on 26 April

On Monday, 26 April the underground car park will have to be closed due to construction work in the area of the WIWI exit ('student car park', Innstrasse 27). We are planning for an all-day closure as a precaution. The underground car park will be reopened as soon as the construction work is finished. As a substitute, the Audimax underground car park at Innstrasse 31 will be open to all on this day.

Please stick to the rules!

In recent days we have, unfortunately, noticed that some are letting their guard down by not adhering carefully to the covid-19 rules, particularly in the outdoor areas of our campus. These rules are there to protect yourself and others – and it is important to us that all of you stay healthy. This is why we are making this appeal: Whether you're meeting others within the permitted limits, relaxing on the Innwiese lawn or getting out and about in town, always take care of yourselves, be considerate to others and observe the rules of conduct that keep us all safe, whether on-campus or off.

Posters summarising the rules in German and English have been placed throughout the campus as a reminder to you. Also note that the wearing of face masks is still compulsory on all campus grounds (indoor and outdoor areas) as well as in the city centre of Passau. Please encourage others to continue complying with the disease control measures – so that we can all get through this summer semester in good health. Thank you!

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 28 April.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• CampusCard and semester bus pass
• Please stick to the rules!

CampusCard and semester bus pass

As before, you can use your validated CampusCard (student ID card) as a bus pass for the town buses in Passau during the semester. You can validate your CampusCard at the usual four validation stations: in the foyer of the Refectory Building, in the Administration Building (Innstrasse 41), near the main entrance of the WIWI Building and next to the lockers in the Nikolakloster concourse. First-semester students do not have to come to the University to validate their CampusCard, as they will receive a pre-validated CampusCard by post. Cards are validated for this semester if the valid-to date printed on the card is 30 September 2021.

Important: You must additionally carry an official photographic ID (i.e. European ID card or passport) with you when you use the buses. Please also remember that there is an FFP2-mask-wearing requirement when using the buses.

Please stick to the rules!

In recent days we have, unfortunately, noticed that some are letting their guard down by not adhering carefully to the covid-19 rules, particularly in the outdoor areas of our campus. These rules are there to protect yourself and others – and it is important to us that all of you stay healthy. This is why we are making this appeal: Whether you're meeting others within the permitted limits, relaxing on the Innwiese lawn or getting out and about in town, always take care of yourselves, be considerate to others and observe the rules of conduct that keep us all safe, whether on-campus or off.

Posters summarising the rules in German and English have been placed throughout the campus as a reminder to you. Also note that the wearing of face masks is still compulsory on all campus grounds (indoor and outdoor areas) as well as in the city centre of Passau. Please encourage others to continue complying with the disease control measures – so that we can all get through this summer semester in good health. Thank you!

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 21 April.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Commuter certificate for students for the summer semester 2021
• Student Services Association // Updated online FAQ on interim aid
• Since 6 April: University Library has a Virtual Information Desk

Commuter certificate for students for the summer semester 2021

Just like last semester, the University of Passau provides a certificate that allows students who live e.g. in the Austrian border region to enter the country for study purposes (visiting the library, attending exams etc.). This certificate has been available for download from the University website since the beginning of the semester. Please note that the certificate is only valid when presented together with your current enrolment certificate for summer semester 2021.

Student Services Association // Updated online FAQ on interim aid

The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) will again help students who are demonstrably experiencing financial hardship due to the covid-19 pandemic with grants of up to 500 euros per month from April to the end of September 2021. Slightly adjusted guidelines apply to applications from 1 April, which are publicly available. The Student Services Association provides a telephone hotline and updated FAQs on its website in German and English.

Since 6 April: University Library has a Virtual Information Desk

The University Library has moved its central library information desk into the virtual domain by opening a Virtual Information Desk on 6 April. University members and external users can join the Zoom meeting to ask questions about library use. During the Orientation Week, this online consultation offer is available Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. As of 12 April, these hours will be extended to Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 14 April.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Reminder: Student survey on the winter semester on behalf of the Vice President for Studies, Teaching and Ethics 

Other news:

• Postgraduate Open Day on 16 April

Reminder: Student survey on the winter semester on behalf of the Vice President for Studies, Teaching and Ethics 

Once again, we would like to invite you to take part in the student survey on the winter semester 2020-21, which will be open until 6 April. With your support, the university will be able to better prepare for the challenges of the summer semester. If you have completed the survey already, thank you!

Student survey 2020-21 (Password: 3657my)

Postgraduate Open Day on 16 April

On Postgraduate Open Day, a diverse digital programme awaits you from 9 am to 6 pm, which you can explore from the comfort of your home:

• Watch the videos and visit virtual information booths to find out more about our master's programmes and about application/enrolment, studies abroad, doctoral degrees, business start-up support and sustainability at the University of Passau without being bound by any time constraints.
• Stop by the live chats to ask experts from the different faculties about degree programmes and any topics related to university studies. Students and alumni from the University of Passau will be there to share their experiences in the study programmes. 

The following programme features will be of particular interest for external prospective students who are not yet familiar with our campus: virtual walks and live guided tours through our campus, walking tour videos through the Centre for Media and Communication, the library and the Sports Centre and a presentation of Passau, the City of Three Rivers, as a place of study.

Registration & information on the virtual Postgraduate Open Day.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 7 April.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Bavarian state parliament adopts 'expedited Corona II act'
• Federal government extends interim financial aid for students for the summer semester

Other news:

• Funding for student projects

Bavarian state parliament adopts 'expedited Corona II act'

The covid-19-related amendments to the Bavarian higher education act will remain in force for the 2020–21 winter semester and the 2021 summer semester. The state parliament in Munich paved the way for this on 24 March. In practical terms this means that, first off, deadlines tied to a specific number of subject semesters (and therefore also to the standard period of study) would be automatically postponed or extended by one semester. Second, the arrangements affecting students' individual standard period of study will be extended to the current winter semester and the upcoming summer semester. The maximum BAföG funding period would be extended accordingly.

A further central aspect of the amendment is the provisions for academic Beamte (civil servants) in so-called qualification positions, i.e. for academic staff working towards an academic qualification as part of their position, such as assistant professors (German job titles: Akademischer (Ober-)Rat/Akademische (Ober-)Rätin, Juniorprofessorin/Juniorprofessor) and those holding a tenure-track professorship. Provided that they held (or commenced) their position in the period from 1 March 2020 to 31 March 2021, their contract may be extended for twelve months beyond the maximum periods stipulated in the Bavarian higher education employees act (HSchPG). Announcement of the Bavarian State Ministry for Science and the Arts (in German).

Federal government extends interim financial aid for students for the summer semester

The Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the German National Association for Student Affairs (DSW) have agreed to continue offering interim financial aid for students experiencing pandemic-related hardship throughout the summer semester of 2021. Students can apply online for grants of up to 500 euros per month.

Students who live in Germany, are enrolled at a German state or state-recognised higher education institution and not on a leave semester are eligible to apply. This applies to international and German students alike, without age limit. Grants are allocated on a monthly basis, up to an amount of 500 euros. You can also find further information on the pages of the Student Services Association (German).

Funding for student projects

Individual students and student clubs and societies can apply for funding for their student project until 31 March. You can find further information on the information page of the university (German page).

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 31 March.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Mask-wearing requirement for in-person examinations extended until 9 April

Other news:

• Reduced availability of the Campus Portal on 22 March due to maintenance work
• Online teaching // eScout qualification for student assistants

Mask-wearing requirement for in-person examinations extended until 9 April

In light of the stubbornly high covid-19 incidence rate, the University President has declared that the mask-wearing requirement for University-set in-person exams, initially set to lapse on 18 March, is to be extended until 9 April 2021 inclusive. All those participating in an in-person examination must wear a face mask throughout the entire duration of the exam, including while seated at their respective assigned desks. The University Executive recommends that you wear an FFP2 mask during in-person examinations if this is feasible for you. The only examinations expressly exempted from the mask-wearing requirement is the university law examination ('Juristische Universitätsprüfung'). We are thus complying with a requirement of the Bavarian Ministry of Justice as the competent authority for regulations on the law undergraduate programme.

Please also note the updated protection and hygiene concepts for written and oral examinations as well as for practical examinations on the Examinations Office website.

Reduced availability of the Campus Portal on 22 March due to maintenance work

On 22 March, the Campus Portal  will not be reachable from 4 to 8 p.m. (estimated) due to scheduled maintenance work. During this time you will not be able to print out certificates or make changes to your contact details via the Campus Portal. We will make every effort to keep the duration of the necessary maintenance work to a minimum and apologise for the inconvenience. If you have any questions about this, please contact ZIM Support during their office hours. For updates on the status of the maintenance work and when it is completed you can check the ZIM news web page.

Online teaching // eScout training for student assistants

The eScout training scheme is targeted specifically at student assistants. It includes a course offering and provides a forum for exchanging ideas in the community. After completing training, participants will be able to provide competent technical assistance for online-taught courses at the respective organisational units at which they are employed.
The eScout scheme is conducted by the Transfer Forum for Didactical Technology (DiTech). Those completing this training will:

• be familiar with the online teaching infrastructure and able to provide competent technical assistance to the lecturers at their Chair
• be acquainted with the support network and know how to use the consulting and support structures of the eScout community
• know how to digitally accompany courses
• be able to provide feedback from the students' perspective

These training courses take place every semester after the examination period and before the start of lectures. A certificate is issued upon completion of the programme. For details, see 68679 Seminar: eScout-Qualifizierung: Weiterqualifizierung im SoSe2021. Currently, the training programme consists of three parts, in each of which the participants have to complete a small task:

• 68676 B1 ILIAS - Intensivkurs on Thursday 1 April from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
• 68677 B2 Online-Prüfungen mit Stud.IP und Vips umsetzen on Tuesday, 6 April from 10 to 11:30 a.m.
• 68678 B3 Online-Prüfungen mit Klaus Online umsetzen on Thursday, 8 April from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

The workshops can also be attended individually. To register, log in to your Stud.IP account.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 24 March.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• University president's video address
• Partial opening of the University Library on 15 March
• Expedited bill due to covid-19 // Science Ministry offers outlook
• Extension of the University's Corona regulation has come into force
• Bavarian vaccination registration portal // English screencast
• Invitation to take part in the student survey on the winter semester

Other news:

• Information from Family Services // studying-as-a-parent award
• Student Services Association // newly created internationalisation office
• Student Services Association // refectory delivery service extends ordering times

University president's video address

To mark the end of the semester and to provide an outlook on the coming summer semester, President Ulrich Bartosch today addressed the University community in a video message (German).

Partial opening of the University Library on 15 March

Pursuant to the 12th Bavarian disease control ordinance (German text), the University Library will reopen the reading rooms to the public starting Monday, 15 March 2021. All reading rooms will operate using the above scheme, and open initially from Mondays to Fridays. An FFP2 mask must be worn at all times while on library premises.

Visits of more than one hour/desk reservations: All university members can make their reservations online. The timeslots the reading rooms are from 8 a.m. to 12:00 noon or 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and from 1 to 5 p.m. or 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.

Short visits without desk: All library visitors, including non-university members, may go to a reading room to borrow, return and copy media. No prior appointment is necessary but the duration is limited to one hour. The open shelf areas are accessible to short-term users, but not the library desk areas. The central library is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for short visits; the other reading rooms are open for short visits from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

As the reading rooms reopen, the University Library will discontinue the delivery service via in-house mail and the scanning service for academics. Academic staff are therefore encouraged to make use of the short visit scheme to borrow and scan media.

Online requests for books from the reading rooms are still accepted until 12 noon on Thursday, 11 March, whereupon this ordering option will be turned off. Requests that reach the University Library by the deadline will be ready for collection in the Central Library from 10 a.m. on Friday at the latest.

The scanning service for students and external users will continue to be offered for those who are not currently in Passau or the surrounding district. Students in Passau are asked to make their own scans under the short visit scheme.

Expedited bill due to covid-19 // Science Ministry offers outlook

The covid-19-related amendments to the Bavarian higher education act are to remain in force for the 2020–21 winter semester and the 2021 summer semester – this was emphasized by Science Minister Bernd Sibler during the first reading of the covid-19 emergency bill in the Bavarian state parliament in Munich.

In practical terms this means that, first off, deadlines tied to a specific number of subject semesters (and therefore also to the standard period of study) would be automatically postponed or extended by one semester. Second, the arrangements affecting students' individual standard period of study would be extended to the winter semester 2020–21 and summer semester 2021. The maximum BAföG funding period would be extended accordingly. This bill would apply to the 2020–21 winter semester and the 2021 summer semester. You can read more in the announcement of the Bavarian State Ministry for Science and the Arts (in German). We will inform you here when the law becomes effective.

Extension of the University's Corona regulation has come into force

In our 3 February update we informed you that the Senate has agreed to another change of the statutes in order to mitigate the disadvantages for students arising from the covid-19 situation. This change came into force on 9 March.

To recapitulate: Failed examinations taken in winter semester 2020–21 are not counted (free exam attempt). This also applies to a fail mark awarded because you aborted an exam after it started, or withdrew from the exam, without furnishing a valid reason. This free exam attempt does not apply to the following:

• Assessments (i.e. exams, dissertations and theses) on which you received a pass mark
• Assessments on which you received a fail (or a mark of 'unsatisfactory') due to cheating or plagiarism
• State examinations (for the teacher education programmes) and equivalent university-set final examinations (JUP)

You can also find this information in our covid-19 FAQ under the heading 'Questions regarding examinations'.

Bavarian vaccination registration portal // English screencast

The vaccination registration portal in Bavaria is currently only available in German. To mitigate this, our digital media team have created a screencast in English in which Robert Holbach explains the selections you can make in the portal. You can view the screencast on YouTube or Vimeo. Please feel free to pass this information on to your fellow international students.

Invitation to take part in the student survey on the winter semester

The current winter semester, now almost completed, has presented us all with great challenges in terms of teaching, examinations and everyday (student) life. Although teaching in the coming summer semester will again be digital, it is hoped that there will be relaxations in the rules on public and social life. We would like to be well prepared for the coming semester and therefore ask you to participate in our student survey for the winter semester 2020–21. We would like to know how you fared and get your input on how the University can make the coming semester better. You will receive the access link via Stud.IP in the next few days. The survey is available in German and English. Thank you in advance for your participation.

Information from Family Services // studying-as-a-parent award

The University of Passau presents the studying-as-a-parent award (in German) once every semester at all faculties and thereby honours the special commitment of parents who have succeeded in balancing child-rearing and successful study. The award is presented to student mothers and fathers who have completed their studies with above-average academic performance. The prize money is 500 euros. The deadline for applications is 14 April 2021.

This and other information for parents and families, including the new online registration form for pregnant and breastfeeding students, can be found in the current Family Services newsletter, which is now available in German and English.

Student Services Association // newly created internationalisation office

The Student Services Association for Lower Bavaria and Upper Palatinate has established a new staff position for internationalisation. Kristin Weiherer (profile) will work together with the international offices of the higher education institutions served by the student services association to improve the coordination of support for international students.

Student Services Association // refectory delivery service extends ordering times

From now on you have one hour longer to order food and drinks via the refectory delivery service. Same-day orders are now accepted until 12:00 noon. For further information visit the Student Services Association website (German).

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 17 March.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Centrally organised in-person exams // information on seating plans
• Student Services Association // free FFP2 masks for students in financial hardship
• German Federal President to deliver an address to the students

Other news:

• International Women's Day on 8 March // events at the University

Centrally organised in-person exams // information on seating plans

Please check www.uni-passau.de/en/examinations-office/semester-related-information to find out the exam venue and your seat number for the exams you are registered on.

Please be sure to do this before going to your exam. If you cannot find your seat on the seating plan, please get in touch with your examinations administrator at the Examinations Office. If you do not have a seat, you will not be allowed to take part in the examination.

On the day of the exam, please ensure that you keep your distance from others at all times, especially on the way to the campus and in the exam rooms. Please observe the rules! By doing so you protect yourself, your fellow students, the supervisors and everyone involved in the exams.

Student Services Association // free FFP2 masks for students in financial hardship

Students at the higher education institutions in Regensburg, Passau, Landshut, Deggendorf, Pfarrkirchen and Straubing who are currently experiencing financial difficulties can obtain six FFP2 face masks free of charge from the Welfare Office of the Student Services Association. To order the free masks, please send an e-mail to sozialbersozialberatung@stwno.de and provide details on the root cause of your financial difficulties (e.g. loss of job due to the Covid-19 crisis, loss of parental support etc.). Please be sure to indicate your postal address in the e-mail and attach your current enrolment certificate (this is absolutely required!).

German Federal President to deliver an address to the students on 12 April

In a video message on 12 April 2021, the President of the Federal Republic of Germany, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, will address all students at German universities to thank you for your pragmatic approach to dealing with the at times enormous burdens on university studies brought about by the pandemic and to offer encouragement for the coming time. President Steinmeier's video address will start at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, 12 April 2021. The livestream and recording can be accessed from the Federal President's website.

International Women's Day on 8 March // events at the University

8 March is International Women's Day. Please check our International Women's Day web page for various digital activities put on by the University to mark this international day of observance. Among other things, you will find a video contribution by the writer and feminist, Gemma Lienas, as well as a photo collage of the 'FIM women'. In addition, all those interested are invited to attend the MINT (STEM) Women's Network's digital panel discussion from 4 to 6 p.m. on 8 March.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 10 March.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Free exam attempts // information on HISQIS entries
• In-person exams // proof of identity
• Access details for online examinations
• Student Services Association // interim financial aid for students faced with pandemic-related financial hardship

Other news:

• Student Services Association // additional psychological counselling service for students
• Open question and answer session with the University Executive

Free exam attempts // information on HISQIS entries

In our update on 3 February 2021, we reported on the extension/renewal of the Corona regulation:

• Failed or missed university examinations this winter semester are not counted.
• This free attempt arrangement does not apply to state examinations (teacher education programmes) and equivalent university-set final examinations (JUP exams of the law undergraduate programme), dissertations and theses or any assessments where plagiarism was the reason for the award of a fail grade.

In the HISQIS system, these exam results are tagged 'KNA', which indicates that the examination attempt is not counted due to the Covid-19 situation. You will find these results under Angemeldete Prüfungen und Atteste ohne Modulzuordnung.

For failed exams, the relevant mark (4.3/4.7/5.0) or, in the case of law exams, the points (0/2/3) are initially recorded. The Central Examinations Office will overwrite these marks/points with the 'KNA' tag well before the start of the next exam registration period in summer semester 2021, or, in the case of FIM, before 21 March 2021 (the registration deadline for the second exam period).

In-person exams // proof of identity

This week saw the start of the centrally organised examinations (German text).

Please note: You have to bring a photographic ID to your exams. If you have an orange CampusCard with a photograph, this will be sufficient. Please make sure it is validated for this semester (valid until 31 March 2021). If you have an orange CampusCard without a photograph or a different CampusCard version (e.g. a grey CampusCard or a replacement card) you must bring along another official form of photographic ID (passport, European identity card) and a current enrolment certificate. Since mobile phones are not allowed in the examination hall, you cannot identify yourself by showing a picture of your CampusCard stored on your mobile phone.

Access details for online examinations

Many of you will be taking online exams this semester using the new Klaus Online software. Your examiners will send the access links and your individual access codes to your official university e-mail address. Please note:

• The access details will be sent to your university e-mail address.
• This is not the same thing as your Stud.IP mailbox.
• Messages sent to your university e-mail address are not automatically forwarded to Stud.IP.
• If you have not set up a forwarding rule to your personal e-mail address, you will have to access your university e-mail account to take the online exam.
• The easiest way to do this is from this URL: https://email.uni-passau.de.

Please contact ZIM Support if you have any questions about this topic.

Student Services Association // interim financial aid for students faced with pandemic-related financial hardship

The bridging aid, which was first introduced by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) in June 2020 and most recently extended up to and including March, is now being extended to cover the entire summer semester of 2021. So, if you are experiencing pandemic-related hardship as of April, you can apply for interim financial aid until the end of the 2021 summer semester (NB: applications are on a per-month basis). For further details visit the Student Services Association website.

Student Services Association // additional psychological counselling service for students

The Student Services Association has announced that a psychological counselling service, set up in mid-January, is being offered to students studying at the higher education institutions in Regensburg, Passau, Deggendorf (including their Pfarrkirchen and Cham campuses), Landshut and Straubing. The counselling team is linked to the Welfare Office of the Student Services Association and currently operates from Regensburg. The first counsellor has already begun her work and will be joined by another psychologist as of April 2021.

'Ask the University Executive': open question time for all students

In a zoom event, President Professor Ulrich Bartosch, Vice President Professor Bettina Noltenius and Head of Administration Dr Achim Dilling will inform all students of the current Corona measures and current events at the University and will answer your questions. All students of the university are cordially invited to attend.

• The event will take place from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. on 9 March. The Stud.IP course code is 69999C (the zoom link will be posted there).

In the coming weeks there will also be a question-and-answer session for university staff, including the non-professorial academic staff members.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 3 March.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Letter from the President for the start of the exam period
• Exams // important notice on seating plans

From the university:

• Open question and answer session with the University Executive

Letter from the President for the start of the exam period

On the occasion of the start of the examination period, University President Professor Ulrich Bartosch addresses you, the students, in a letter.

Student Services Association // KfW student loan for students from non-EU countries ends soon

Please check semester-related-information page to find out the exam venue and your seat number for the exams you are registered on. Please be sure to do this before going to your exam. If you cannot find your seat on the seating plan, please get in touch with your examinations administrator at the Examinations Office. If you do not have a seat, you will not be allowed to take part in the examination.

'Ask the University Executive': open question time for all students

In a zoom event, President Professor Ulrich Bartosch, Vice President Professor Bettina Noltenius and Head of Administration Dr Achim Dilling will inform all students of the current Corona measures and current events at the University and will be available to answer questions. All students of the university are cordially invited to attend.

• The event will take place from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. on 9 March. The Stud.IP course code is 69999C (the zoom link will be posted there).

In the coming weeks there will also be a question-and-answer session for university staff, including the non-professorial academic staff members.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 24 February.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• In-person examinations // information on infection control and seating plans
• Student Services Association // KfW student loan for students from non-EU countries ends soon

From the university:

• 'Universität heute' // new lectures with discussion round in February

In-person examinations // information on infection control and seating plans

The University Executive has approved the current guidelines for the implementation of the 11th Bavarian disease control ordinance for written and oral in-person examinations. The guidelines (German) can now be viewed online. Furthermore, the Examinations Office has put the seating plans for the upcoming centrally organised in-person exams online and updated the FAQ on in-person exams.

We ask you to:

Please check well before the exam which seat you have been allocated, and once you're in the exam venue, go to your seat quickly. Please also inform yourself in advance about the infection prevention measures for in-person exams (German) – and don’t forget to register your current telephone number in Stud.IP in the Profile tab under Contact tracing.

On the day of the exam, please ensure that you keep your distance from others at all times, especially on the way to the campus and in the exam rooms. These measures will ensure that you can all sit your exams safely.

Please observe the rules! By doing so you protect yourself, your fellow students, the supervisors and everyone involved in the exams.

Student Services Association // KfW student loan for students from non-EU countries ends soon

Until 15 February international students and refugees from non-EU countries can take out the interest-free KfW student loan, with funding starting on 1 March 2021. After that, this Covid-related programme ends and the KfW student loan will become available only to students from Germany and the European Union. If you are interested in applying for this loan, get in touch with the Student Services Association's welfare office.

'Universität heute' // new lectures with discussion round in February

What can a university be in general, and what should it be? How is its mission changing due to the current political and social demands – and what specific path does the University of Passau intend to take? At the same time, the University has also initiated a lecture series entitled 'Die Idee der Universität – heute (in Passau)', through which it wishes to engage in a public debate and find answers to these and other questions.

From 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, 12 February, environmental scientist and politician Professor Ernst Ulrich von Weizsäcker and sociologist Professor Anna Henkel will deliver the next lectures in the series.

After that, the lecture series will continue with computer scientist Professor Horst Bischof and jurist Professor Jörg Fedtke; this will take place from 2:00 to 3:30 p.m. on Wednesday, 24 February.

The lecture series is open to all those interested.

The event will take place virtually via Zoom. Please register online if you wish to participate. The lectures will be recorded for documentation purposes. In the recording only the speaker can be seen and heard; the audience is not recorded. The recordings will not be published.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 17 February.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Amended Corona regulation: Failed and missed university exams in the winter semester will not be counted
• NEW information on border crossing for Austrian students

From the university:

• In talk with Minister of Science Bernd Sibler - The higher education reform
• Programme of courses for prospective doctoral students at the Graduate Centre

The amended Corona regulation has been adopted: Failed and missed university exams in the winter semester will not be counted

The Senate has deliberated on the proposal put forward by the University Executive to amend the Corona regulation of the University of Passau and thereby mitigate the disadvantages suffered by students on account of the special corona situation. The Senate has approved the amendment. As a result, university exams failed and missed in the winter semester 2020-21 will not be counted. 

Once approved by the Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs and the Ministry of Justice, the amendment will be executed and promulgated. Experience has shown that this process will take some time to complete. We will let you know in our updates as soon as it has been issued. The new regulation will enter into force as soon as it has been issued. Please note that state examinations are the responsibility of the relevant ministries, and the Corona regulation of the University of Passau will thus not apply to state examinations.

Entry into force of the amended regulation will have the following consequences for you: if you

• miss an exam (due to illness or for any other reason, for example),
• have to abort an exam or
• fail the exam

the registration for the exam or, as the case may be, your attempt at taking the exam will automatically not be counted. 

Please note: This regulation does not apply to state examinations and dissertations/theses for which a student has registered. Please note: Furthermore, the free-attempt provision will not apply in the case of examinations or, as the case may be, dissertations/theses that you pass and will also not be applicable if you fail due to cheating or plagiary.

NEW information on border crossings by students registered as resident in Austria

Since our last update, we have received new information about border crossings by students registered as resident in Austria: The law allows students to enter the country without a negative test result if they intend to stay in Germany for less than 24 hours for educational purposes (to sit an exam, visit the library). Therefore, only the following documents need to be presented when crossing the border:

• identification document (personal ID or passport, for example) and
• commuter certificate issued by the Examinations Office or an electronic booking confirmation from the library (printed out or shown on your smartphone) as well as
• enrolment certificate for the current winter semester

Please note that the '24-hour rule' only applies if

• you need to enter the country for individual appointments due to the valid educational reasons previously mentioned and not every day – otherwise you will be considered a 'cross-border commuter' and obliged to take a test. 
• you do not have any symptoms of illness, especially fever and respiratory symptoms.
• Austria is not listed as a high risk area (currently not the case).

In talk with Minister of Science Bernd Sibler – the higher education reform

Minister of Science Bernd Sibler is due to start a major information campaign this week on the higher education reform in Bavaria. In a series of livestreams, he will be addressing the entire family of universities and explain the current status of the draft law. He will be focusing on the key changes, provide background information on the reform and outline the vision driving this reform. Participants will be able to ask questions in the chat, a selection of which the minister will answer live.
The following dates are available:

• Friday, 5 February, 4 pm
• Wednesday, 10 February, 6 pm
• Monday, 15 February, 10 am 

Each livestream will be available on the YouTube channel for the Bavarian Science Ministry. For details, please see the Letter from the Science Ministry.

Programme of courses for prospective doctoral students and early career researchers at the Graduate Centre: Openings still available!

Programme of courses for prospective doctoral students and early career researchers at the Graduate Centre: Openings still available!
Ahead of the new semester, the Graduate Centre is holding a series of events, for which openings are still available. You can register for the following courses (in German):

• Short workshop: Your career – a result of coincidence and planning on 4 February (4:00 – 6:00 pm) | Registration via Stud.IP: no. 71055
• Information event: Developing a DFG application – frequently asked questions and stumbling blocks on 10 February (4:00 – 6:00 pm) | Registration via Stud.IP: 71040 (offered by the Research Services Division)
• Writing workshop: The thesis proposal for your doctorate on 12 February (9:00 am – 3:00 pm) and 19 February (9:00 am – 2:00 pm) | Registration via Stud.IP: no. 71052
• Information event: Developing a financial DFG plan – frequently asked questions and stumbling blocks on 24 February (4:00 – 6:00 pm) | Registration via Stud.IP: 71041 (offered by the Research Services Division)
• Workshop: Competencies are resources in career management starting on 26 February. five times, Fridays (9:00 – 11:00 am) | Registration via Stud.IP: 71054B
• Workshop: Developing personal career prospects starting on 25 March (9:00 am – 12:00 noon) | Registration via Stud.IP: 71056
   

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 10 February.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Centrally organised exams // things to bear in mind
• Information on border crossings for students residing in Austria

From the university:

• MentUP+ women's mentoring programme // apply by 31 January

Centrally organised in-person examinations // things to bear in mind

The Examinations Office announced the exam schedules for the centrally organised examinations today. These are now available for download from the Examinations Office website. Please note that the schedules are provisional and may change up to three days before the respective exam date. We therefore recommend that you double-check your exam dates in the schedule as the exams draw closer. We expect to be posting the seating plans online on 8th February.

As announced on 25th January, the University Executive has introduced a mask-wearing requirement during university exams. This means that you have to wear a face mask covering your mouth and nose for the entire duration of your in-person exams. The mask-wearing requirement will initially apply until 18 March 2021 inclusive. For University examinations taking place after 18 March, the mask-wearing requirement and any time extensions will be reassessed against the infection situation. For both types of examination (state examinations and university exams) there is no express obligation to wear an FFP-2 mask – although the University urges you to do so if you can. If you do not have an FFP-2 mask available on the exam day, you may wear a simple surgical mask or a cloth mask (community mask).

Please also note that you are not permitted to bring mobile phones or bags of any kind into the exam venue; You may, however, take your coats or jackets into the exam venue.

Please check that you have entered your current telephone number in Stud.IP in the Profile tab under Contact tracing. Also update your current phone number and correspondence address in the Campus portal in the user information section of the portal. This information will only be used if the local health authority orders contact tracing after an in-person exam or course.

The University of Passau attaches the utmost importance to ensuring that students and staff feel safe and have the best possible protection during in-person examinations. What aids us in this is our carefully tested hygiene concept, which has already proven its worth in the summer semester and is continually being further refined. To be on the safe side, we partly set the standard even higher than officially prescribed: for example, we remain significantly below the permissible number of seats per room in order to give you as much distance from each other as possible. Please support our efforts by observing the measures in place and being considerate to each other. Thank you!

Please visit the Examinations Office website for more information on the centrally organised in-person exams. For non-centrally organised exams, the examiners will inform you via Stud.IP or the relevant Chair's website.

Information on border crossings for students residing in Austria

Over the coming weeks, students residing in Austria who have to commute across the border to Passau for an in-person exam or a library appointment will have to present the following documents at the border:

• the commuter certificate issued by the Examinations Office or an electronic booking confirmation from the library (printed out or shown on your smartphone)
• enrolment certificate for the current winter semester
• a negative Covid-19 test certificate

Please note that all three must be presented together.

MentUP+ women's mentoring programme // apply by 31 January

MentUP+, the University's women's mentoring programme, is intended for female early career scholars and executives from all faculties. This includes female master's students, state examinations candidates, doctoral and postdoctoral researchers, including those working towards their habilitation qualification. The programme supports strategic career planning, imparts career-relevant knowledge and prepares students for future leadership and management tasks. The next round starts in May 2021. The application deadline is 31 January 2021. For the application form and information on the programme as well as the application process visit the mentUP+ web pages.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 3 February.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• University Library // borrowing via Click & Collect as of 28 January

University Library // borrowing via Click & Collect as of 28 January

Passau University Library is offering contactless check-out and return of all media in the central library starting Thursday, 28th January. To use this service, library users have to book an appointment beforehand. Media from the local holdings can be ordered through a web form starting 27 January. If you wish to order items via interlibrary loan, please send an e-mail to ubinfo@uni-passau.de. The order function in the Passau Search Portal is deactivated until further notice.

This appointment-based borrowing service is intended for students, doctoral researchers who do not have an office address on campus and non-university members from the local area. Academic staff based on campus are requested to continue using the delivery service instead. Thanks to a special copyright arrangement reached with VG Wort, the University Library can now e-mail interlibrary loan articles directly to users. This service will be offered at least until 31 March 2021.

Students can also return borrowed media – but only in the central library. Please note that you also have book an appointment before coming in to return borrowed books or media. However, if you already have an appointment for borrowing additional books/media, you can return borrowed books/media during the same appointment.

If you wish to return media but are not in Passau, you can send them in by post. The return deadline for all books/media already out on loan has been moved back to 28 February 2021.

Please note that you must wear an FFP2 face mask when you come to the library to collect or return items.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 27 January.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Exam schedule to be announced on 27 January // wearing of face masks compulsory during examinations (state examination for teacher education and university exams)
• Ministry working on fast-tracked Covid-19 law for the winter semester
• University seeks amendment of Corona regulation to include free-attempt provision

Exam schedule to be announced on 27 January // wearing of face masks compulsory during examinations (state examination for teacher education and university exams)

The Bavarian State Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs has made mask-wearing compulsory during the teacher education (Lehramt) state examinations. Face masks must be worn throughout these examinations; simple face masks covering the mouth and nose will suffice. At the same time, the education ministry grants an extension to the exam time of 5 minutes per hour elapsed. For details visit the website of the Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs (German).
These adjustments mean that the University has to redo all exam schedules. The exam schedule will, therefore, be announced on 27 January rather than 25 January. The schedule will then be made available on the Examinations Office website. Thank you for your patience.
The University Executive has followed suit with the ministry's decision and made the mask-wearing compulsory for all examinations set by the University. This means that you must wear a mouth-and-nose covering in all in-person exams. The exam time for the University examinations will not be extended.
The mask-wearing requirement will initially apply until 18 March 2021 inclusive. For University examinations taking place after 18 March, the mask-wearing requirement and any time extensions will be reassessed against the infection situation.
For both types of examination (state examinations and university exams) there is no express obligation to wear an FFP-2 mask – although the University urges you to do so if you can. If you do not have an FFP-2 mask available on the exam day, you may wear a simple surgical mask or a cloth mask (community mask).

Ministry working on fast-tracked Covid-19 law for the winter semester

In November 2019, Science Minister Bernd Sibler hinted at an extension of the Covid-19 emergency provisions of the Bavarian Higher Education Act introduced for the 2020 virtual corona summer semester. Now the ministry has promised to pass the bill for the current winter semester.
The main change for summer semester 2020 was that certain deadlines were postponed and the standard period of study extended by one semester, which also brought about an extension of the maximum BAföG funding term.
As things stand today, it can be assumed that this regulation will also apply to this winter semester. We will inform you here when the law comes into effect.

University seeks amendment of Corona regulation to include free-attempt provision

The University Senate will consider the addition of a free-attempt exam provision to the Corona regulation at the next opportunity. On this matter, too, we will keep you up to date here.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 27 January.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• In-person examinations should be mostly changed to online-based exams
• Summer semester 2021 starts with online teaching
• In-person examinations: please update your contact details in Stud.IP
• University Library // contactless lending soon to be offered again
• Student Services Association // refectory and cafeteria remain open
• Leisure trips to the rural district (Landkreis Passau) are permitted again

Other news from the University:

• Lecture series 'Universität heute' ('University Today') starts on 27 January

In-person examinations should be mostly changed to online-based exams

In light of the still worryingly high infection rates and the nationwide extension of the strict covid-19 lockdown, the University Executive once again sends an urgent appeal to all examiners to substitute scheduled in-person examinations with digital alternatives wherever possible: the aim must be to reduce the number of in-person exams to a bare minimum. Registered exam candidates will be notified directly by their examiners if their in-person exam is switched to an online format.
President Bartosch will talk about this in a new video address.

Summer semester 2021 starts with online teaching

The Extended University Executive decided on Wednesday that courses at the University of Passau will initially be offered exclusively online in the coming summer semester. Should the infection rate drop to sufficiently low level during the summer semester, online teaching can be supplemented by classroom-based teaching where possible. The University Executive wishes to create the necessary conditions, in terms of content and technology used, for new interactive hybrid formats that will enable students to choose flexibly between online and in-person attendance, depending on their individual situation.
For more on this, watch the video address from President Ulrich Bartosch.
This summer semester 2021 the lecture period is scheduled to start on 12 April. We will inform you here if this date is changed by the responsible ministries as a result of the pandemic.

In-person examinations: please update your contact details in Stud.IP

Examinations for the winter semester will start at the end of January. If you are taking in-person exams:

• Please enter your current telephone number in Stud.IP in the Profile tab under Contact tracing. The data stored there is not visible to lecturers or other students and will only be used if the local health authority orders contact tracing after an in-person exam or course.
• Please also update your current phone number and correspondence address in the Campus portal under user information.

It is of the utmost importance to us all that students and staff receive the best possible protection during in-person examinations. This is why the University is keen to ensure consistent implementation of the hygiene concept, which has proven effective in summer semester 2020. If it is discovered after an in-person examination that an exam candidate was infected, the risk of infection is very low for the other candidates if the hygiene concept was consistently observed. Depending on the specific situation, the local health authority can still require that contact persons be notified in order to interrupt chains of infection. Therefore, it is important that you enter your current phone number in Stud.IP to enable the authorities to contact you directly and without delay if necessary. Thank you for your help!

University Library // contactless lending soon to be offered again

The Bavarian state cabinet decided on Wednesday that 'Click and Collect' will be permitted in public and academic libraries (German text). Following the cabinet's decision, the state parliament is expected to approve this measure in the middle of next week. Once the new 'Hygienemaßnahmenschutzverordnung' (hygiene measure protection ordinance) is in effect, the University Library will once again be able to offer contactless lending in compliance with the existing protective and hygiene measures. Preparations for this are already underway. We will inform you here when the lending service is started up again.

Student Services Association // refectory and cafeteria remain open

You can continue to pick up food from the refectory and the cafeteria located in the same building (Innstrasse 29) during the extended lockdown. Likewise, the refectory's delivery service will continue to operate. For details and the current opening hours visit the Student Services Association website (German) .

Leisure trips to the rural district (Landkreis Passau) are permitted again

The City of Passau and the rural district of Passau have reached an agreement permitting leisure trips to the Landkreis, which starts just outside of the city limits. Nevertheless, the 15-kilometre rule remains in force, prohibiting leisure trips to places farther away than 15 kilometres.

Universität heute lecture series starting January 27 // public debate on the future of the University of Passau

What can a university be in general, and what should it be? How is its mission changing due to the current political and social demands – and what specific path does the University of Passau intend to take? 'In view of the current changes – the covid-19 pandemic, digitalisation of society, academisation of education, the growing and increasingly controversial role of science and not least because of the debate about the reform of higher education law in Bavaria, this is the right time to have this discussion', President Ulrich Bartosch said.
To tackle this issue, the University Executive has entered into an internal consultation process with all of the university's stakeholders, supported by an external, three-member team of advisers: molecular biologist and former president of the University of Göttingen Professor Ulrike Beisiegel, computer scientist and vice rector of the Technical University of Graz Professor Horst Bischof, and political scientist Professor Herfried Münkler, emeritus professor at Humboldt University in Berlin. At the same time, the University has also initiated a lecture series entitled 'Die Idee der Universität – heute (in Passau) , through which it wishes to engage in a public debate and find answers to these and other questions.

The first lecture will be held by Professor Herfried Münkler from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, 27 January. All students and other members the University of Passau are cordially invited to participate in the debate. The event will take place virtually via Zoom. Please register online if you wish to participate.

'When you have big and difficult things ahead of you, it is wise to ask at the right time for the help you will need. Over the next five and a half years, the University of Passau will work towards establishing itself more distinctly as a research-strong university. To do this, we must take certain indispensable steps, such as reorganising our internal structure and working on our external networks. We have successfully enlisted the help of experienced and proven experts, who will give us tailored advice on how best to implement these steps', said President Bartosch.
'It was important to us that the multifariousness of the University be reflected in the advisory team and that we benefit from its top-notch experience in the field of science funding and development. The University Executive is taking an interactive approach when involving relevant stakeholders and committees within the university in the deliberative process. The first two-day round saw a variety of encounters and intensive exchanges. The external consulting team therefore complements and supports all existing organisational forms of internal expertise at the University and, not least, the University Council. This process is initially planned to take two years. The advisors will receive reasonable emoluments.'

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 27 January.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

New coronavirus-related developments:

• Impact of library closure on submission deadlines (as reported on 16 December 2020)
• Student Services Association closes cultural rehearsal rooms
• 15-kilometre rule // what does it mean?

Impact of library closure on submission deadlines (as reported on 16 December 2020)

[Due to the large number of enquiries received, we are repeating the information posted on 16 December 2020, the date on which the libraries and reading rooms closed.] The Board of Examiners of the Faculty of Computer Science and Mathematics and the Faculty of Business, Economics and Information Systems have decided that the submission deadlines for written assignments, seminar papers, project papers, dissertations and theses (or any other comparable type of coursework) will remain in force without modification. There is no general suspension or extension on these deadlines. The closure of the University's services and facilities over the Christmas holiday period (28 December to 5 January) was already taken into account when the submission deadlines were set. In justified individual cases, an extension or suspension of the submission deadline may be approved upon application to the relevant Board of Examiners in consultation with your supervisor. For this to go through, you must indicate in what ways the library closure presents a significant obstacle for submitting your paper, dissertation or thesis on time.
At the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, the submission deadlines for bachelor's dissertations and master's theses remain suspended.
There are special regulations for students at the Faculty of Law. For details, read the website of the Dean of Studies (German).

Student Services Association closes cultural rehearsal rooms until at least 31 January 2021

Unfortunately, due to the 11 January amendment of the Bavarian disease control ordinance and the curfew currently in force, the Student Services Association (Studentenwerk) has had to close the cultural rehearsal rooms, initially until 31 January 2021.
Exemption: Residents of halls of residence may—individually but not in groups—use the rehearsal rooms in their housing complex during booked timeslots.
The website of the student services association (German) provides answers to key questions regarding cultural promotions during the Covid-19 crisis.

15-kilometre rule // what does it mean?

Leisure trips outside of a 15-kilometre radius are prohibited for inhabitants of a rural (Landkreis) or urban districts (Kreisfreie Städte) with a seven-day incidence of over 200 Covid-19 cases per 100,000 population. The official seven-day incidence figures published by the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) are pertinent. The 15-kilometre radius starts at the district limits of the municipality of residence. In addition, district administrative authorities with a seven-day incidence of more than 200 cases per 100,000 inhabitants may prohibit leisure trips to their district. At the time of writing, this is the case for the Passau rural district (Landkreis Passau), which begins just outside the city limits of Passau.

A reliable daily overview of where in Bavaria the 15-kilometre rule currently applies and/or excursionists are currently not allowed to enter is provided on the website of the Bavarian disaster relief organisation (German), which is updated by 11 a.m. every day.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 20 January.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').

Information from the University:

• University Library // outlook concerning services for academics
• Sports Centre // outlook concerning practical sports courses
• Student Services Association // refectories and cafeterias

University Library // outlook concerning services for academics

Due to the lockdown extension, the University Library reading rooms will remain closed. Borrowing deadlines have been extended until 31 January, and reminders will be suspended until then. As of Monday, 11 January, the UB will again offer the scanning and delivery service for researchers in the usual manner. As soon as the regulations of the Bavarian State Government once again allow for further services such as the on-site book check-outs or the scanning service for students, the University Library will inform you about this on its website. We will also inform you about further developments when and as they happen.

Sports Centre // outlook concerning practical sports courses

Against the background of the dynamic infection situation, all sports science institutions throughout Bavaria have agreed to suspend practical sports teaching until the end of January. The Sports Centre of the University of Passau is currently preparing to offer the suspended practical courses in the period from 1 to 19 February. Practical exams in physical education will be moved back in time. Students affected by this will be notified directly of the details. Here, too, we will keep you informed of further developments.

Student Services Association // refectories and cafeterias

Beginning Monday, 11 January, the refectory open again from 11a.m. to 2p.m. The cafeteria in the refectory building will open from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. At both facilities, there will be takeaway service only; it will not be possible to consume food and beverages on site until further notice.

The next regular update will be posted at 6 p.m. on 13 January.

Do you have any further questions? Send us an e-mail! (subject: 'Coronavirus').