Welcome to Karlsruhe and the Department of Mechanical Engineering!
Professor Thomas Böhlke, the Dean of Studies for Mechanical Engineering (International), would like to warmly welcome all new students to the winter semester 2025/26 and invite you to the following orientation events. These events will provide valuable information and useful insights, as well as the opportunity to make first contacts.
Important notice: Lectures for the first semester start on Wednesday, 29 October 2025!
University Events
- Welcome Event by the International Students Office (IstO) and Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)
When: 24.10.2025 from 14:00-16:30pm
Meeting Point: New Lecture Hall Chemistry, KIT Campus South, Building 30.46
Info: Get to know the university and its student services, as well as the information booths and the sparkling wine reception.
- Campus Rally
When: 24.10.2025 from 16:30-18:30pm
Meeting Point: In front of the Chemistry Building 30.46, KIT Campus South
Info: Get to know the campus and other new students by taking part in fun group activities.
- MEI General Assembly for First-Semester Students
When: 28.10.2025 form 15:45-17:15pm
Meeing Point: Chemistry Lecture Hall Nr. 3 (HS3), KIT Campus South, Building 30.41
Info: The Dean of Studies, Professor Thomas Böhlke, will introduce himself and offer organizational advice on the study program.
You can find more helpful information sessions to sign up for here!
Student Council Events
- Information Session for Freshmen in Mechanical Engineering (International)
When: 15.10.2025 from 16:00-17:30pm
Meeting Point: Wolfgang-Gaede Lecture Hall, KIT Campus South, Building 30.22, 1st floor
Info: Facts about your studies.
- Get-Together for Freshmen in Mechanical Engineering (International)
When: 21.10.2025 from 18:00pm
Meeting Point: Entrance Hall of Light Technoloy Institute (LTI), KIT Campus South, Building 30.34
Info: Information on the course structure and the opportunity to meet other MEI freshmen students. Snacks provided.
Helpful tips and offers to make your student life easier:
Campus Map: As a new student finding your way around can be challenging. The KIT Campus Map is a great help, providing a detailed overview of the entire Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) campus. You can find information about buildings, facilities, lecture halls, libraries, cafeterias (mensa), laboratories and other important facilities. The map also shows traffic routes, parking areas and green spaces. It is available in both print and digital formats and is regularly updated to reflect new construction projects and changes.
Mensa (Refectory): The Mensa on Adenauerring is open daily, except at weekends and during the lecture-free periods. It offers a wide selection of meals, including pasta, pan-fried dishes, soups, side dishes, and desserts. Vegan or vegetarian options are also available. The average cost of a meal for students is around EUR 3.50. Enjoy!
KIT Library: The KIT library on the South Campus is the university's main lending and service library. It provides resources for all academic disciplines and offers over 950 workstations for individual or group study. Places can be book easily via the Anny reservation system. One notable advantage is that the library is open 24/7, providing access around the clock!
University sports: The University sports program at KIT offers a wide range of activities spanning over 70 different disciplines. With over 300 courses held at 30 facilities throughout Karlsruhe, there is something for everyone looking to balance study and leisure. Over 500 instructors and the university sports team are looking forward to welcoming you! Registration for winter semester courses opens at the beginning of October.
Student Life at KIT and in Karlsruhe: The Student life is lively and diverse. The city is renowned for its high quality of life and a welcoming atmosphere. Many students use the excellent cycle network for everyday travel. The Schlosspark (Palace Garden) located right next to the campus, is the perfect place to relax, jog and simply unwind. Shops for everyday necessities are within easy walking or cycling distance.
Thanks to its location, Karlsruhe also offers great opportunities to take trips to the nearby Black Forest and the Palatinate Forest. Combined with the city's open culture, numerous student initiatives and KIT events, this fosters a strong sense of community. Overall, student life at KIT strikes a great balance between academic demands and leisure activities.
