Welcome to TH Köln!
We are delighted that you have decided to study at TH Köln! The first few days at university can be a little chaotic. To help you keep track of everything, we have summarized the most important information for you—a little survival kit for the start of your studies.
The most important documents
Student ID card (MultiCa)
When you enrolled at TH Köln, you received your MultiCa by mail. This chip card serves as your student ID and serves many functions: You can borrow books from the library, use lockers, and, after charging it, pay for copies in the library. So – no question about it: Put your MultiCa in your wallet.
Deutschlandticket / semester ticket
As a student at TH Köln, you are eligible for a discounted Deutschlandticket. Detailed information and FAQs are available here.
IT basics
campusID – your university login
With the campusID, you can log in to all systems – your email account, ILU, CaMS, and the university Wi-Fi. The ID was automatically created for you when you enrolled. You should have received the username and initial password for your first login by email to your private email address. For more information use this website (in German).
University Wi-Fi (eduroam)
With the university Wi-Fi (eduroam), you have internet access at all TH Köln campuses. But that's not all – you can also connect to the internet on the campuses of other universities. For information on the specifications and on setting up your Eduroam access go to this webseite (in German) or use the English manual.
VPN
You can access the TH Köln university network via a VPN connection. To activate the VPN, you must have the Cisco VPN client installed on your device. For more information and instructions, go to this website (in German) or use the English manual.
- Check your email via a web browser
- campusID Center Set up email forwarding to a private email address
- www.th-koeln.de/smail Instructions / Information (in German)
University email
When you enrolled, you were assigned a university email address, which is usually structured as follows: firstname.lastname@smail.th-koeln.de. The university sends important information about your studies to this email address. Check your emails regularly to stay up to date.
Platforms for organizing your studies
ILU
On ILU, you will find learning materials for your courses. Log in here.
CaMS
Do you need a BAföG certificate or are you looking for your certificate of enrollment? Would you like to re-register for the next semester? All of this can be done via CaMS.
PSSO
You can use PSSO to register for exams and view your grade transcript. However, starting in November, exam registration will be switched to CaMS for some degree programs. You will receive more detailed information about this when the time comes.
THspaces
Spaces is the Social Learning Environment of TH Köln. Spaces allows anyone to create digital spaces where information can be shared and discussed. You can access the platform via this link.
By the way: TH Köln offers other tools and software that you can use during your studies. For example, the cloud service Sciebo, Microsoft, Adobe products, and Zoom. You can find all the offers on the Campus IT page (in German).
Do you have questions about IT services, or do you need help? Ask the Campus IT service desk: T: 0221-8275-2323, E: support@campus-it.th-koeln.de .
Orientation on campus
Site maps
Late for class? It happens—especially at the beginning, when you're still trying to find your way around. To make sure you get to the seminar room on time, check the site maps for your location here.
The library
The library is a place to learn, work, and browse. But where can I find the book the lecturer mentioned? Fortunately, the library offers introductory information to help you find your way around the bookshelves – both analog and digital. To the website
The cafeteria
Is your stomach growling after a long day at university? Then head to the cafeteria. You can find the menu here.
Financing and funding
As a student, you have various options for receiving financial support during your studies. These range from BAföG to funding programs and scholarships. You can find an overview here.
Student associations
The student councils
Not every degree program runs smoothly; sometimes there are real obstacles along the way. That's what your student council is for! Each faculty has its own. In addition to lecture notes, they help you create your timetable and provide information on examination regulations. You can drop by during office hours with any concerns you may have. Your student council will also probably throw a party or two. The student councils organize the introductory week for first-year students, so you will get to know them right at the beginning of your studies.
The AStA
The AStA represents you and your fellow students at the university policy level. It also offers advice on BAföG, legal issues, or if you need psychosocial support. The AStA also regularly organizes cultural events and parties. If you want to stay up to date, follow the AStA on Instagram.
Introductory events
Are there any introductory events for my degree program? And when do my courses start?
The information varies greatly for each degree program.
Select your degree program here and then click on “For Students” in the menu on the left.
If you cannot find the information you need or have any questions, please contact your faculty directly.
Contact points during your studies
Department of International Affairs - your international community
The Department of International Affairs supports international students during their study. If you need any help in English, just contact the office. It also assists with internships abroad and Erasmus programs and regularly organizes events for international students. Follow the account on Instagram stay up to date.
To the Instagram account
Central Student Advisory Service
The Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB) provides support on important topics related to your studies. Are you plagued by doubts about your studies or overwhelmed by the chaos of creating your timetable? Are you studying with a physical or mental disability? Get help from the ZSB.
To the website
Office of Student and Examination Services
The Office of Student and Examination Services on your respective campus will help you if you have questions about topics such as enrollment, changing your degree program, or issuing a new MultiCa card. The office is also there to assist you with exam-related matters: withdrawing from exams, your transcript, or study progress certificates.
To the website
Career Service
The Career Service offers seminars and workshops on the topic of application procedures and starting a career. Are you looking for an internship or a part-time job? The Career Service can also help you with this.
To the website
Studying with a disability
A disability should not be an obstacle: that is why TH Köln offers students with health impairments the opportunity to study without barriers.
To the website
Anti-Discrimination Office
TH Köln is committed to diversity, diversity of perspectives, and equal opportunities, and promotes a culture in which diversity is seen as an asset. It rejects any form of discrimination, harassment, violence, stalking, and bullying. Nevertheless, conflicts can arise in groups. Those affected can contact the Anti-Discrimination Office.
To the website
Family Service Office
Balancing studies with family life can be very challenging. The Family Service Office provides support in overcoming this challenge.
To the website
Cologne Student Services
- has over 90 halls of residence with around 5,000 places in Cologne, Gummersbach, and Leverkusen-Opladen
- runs the cafeterias at TH Köln (and other universities)
- provides advice on BAföG and finances
- offers social counseling for student parents and information on financial aid, and assists in the search for childcare facilities for small children.