Abitur in der Tasche und jetzt ein Studium oder eine Ausbildung in MINT?

Your orientation semester for science and technology!

Are you interested in maths, science or engineering, but still unsure which degree course is right for you?

hejmint offers you the chance to explore various STEM disciplines under real university conditions. You’ll attend lectures, work on practical projects, receive personalised support and gain guidance to help you decide on your course of study.

Discover the programme

Application & Entry Requirements

Who is hejmint designed for?

The orientation programme can be particularly helpful if you …

are interested in STEM subjects
are torn between several degree programmes
are unsure whether you want to go to university or do a vocational training programme
want to try out different options first
want to brush up on the basics of maths, physics, chemistry or computer science

Here’s what you can expect at hejmint

A realistic look at university life

You will attend modules on various degree programmes at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences and gain a realistic insight into the course content.

Personal support

Throughout the semester, we’ll support you as you settle in and help you learn what’s needed to succeed in your studies.

Practical experience

In our laboratories and on field trips to local businesses, you’ll learn about the practical applications of STEM subjects and explore various career paths.

Preparing for university

In preparatory courses and courses running alongside your degree programme, you can strengthen your foundations in maths, chemistry, physics or computer science.

This is how the orientation programme is structured

hejmint starts at the beginning of each summer or winter semester and combines orientation programmes with regular courses at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences.

1. Arrival & Orientation
Get to know the university and other participants; coaching sessions on academic and career guidance

2. Discover STEM
Gaining an insight into the faculties and degree programmes at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences

3. Strengthening the basics
Refreshing subject-specific fundamentals in various STEM preparatory courses

4. Experience university life and career fields
Attend lectures, go on excursions to businesses and experience everyday university life

5. Preparing your decision
Reflection, coaching and support in choosing a degree subject

6. Industry placement
Gain an insight into professional life through a placement at a company of your choice

By combining guidance, practical experience and everyday student life, hejmint helps you to better assess your interests and strengths and make an informed decision about your studies.

More about the programme schedule

Key points at a glance

Duration:	7 months (full-time)
Start:	- 1 September 2025 (winter semester 2025/26) - 1 March 2026 (summer semester 2026)
Aim:	Guidance and preparation for a degree in STEM subjects
Content:	- guided academic and career guidance - refreshing the basics of STEM - courses at h_da - industry placement
Entry requirements:	(Specialised) A-levels or equivalent university entrance qualification
Status:	Enrolment at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences with the student status ‘Pre-degree’
Costs:	Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences semester fee
Application deadlines:	- by 15 August for the winter semester - by 15 February for the summer semester

Good to know

During your orientation programme, you will be enrolled at Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences. Like regular students, you will be issued with a Campus Card. This gives you access to discounted meals in the canteen, a term ticket, university sports facilities and free entry to various theatres in Darmstadt and the Landesmuseum (Kulturticket).

How to apply

Frequently asked questions about hejmint

During the orientation programme

Am I eligible for BAföG as a participant?

Unfortunately, the current BAföG regulations do not allow BAföG funding for hejmint, as you, as a hejmint participant, are not undertaking a regular degree programme.

Can I also find out about degree programmes and departments on hejmint that aren’t part of the STEM subjects?

If you’re interested in degree programmes or modules beyond STEM subjects, please feel free to mention this during your introductory meeting. We’ll then work with the relevant departments to find ways for you to find out more about them.

Where can I do my industrial placement?

Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences has a number of partnerships with major companies in the Darmstadt region. We’d be happy to advise you on choosing an industrial placement and help you with your application.

Is the industrial placement a compulsory part of hejmint?

The industry placement is an optional component and is therefore voluntary. It’s a great opportunity to gain a realistic insight into the professional world of your choice, get to know potential employers and tick off the pre-placement requirement.

Can I use hejmint to shorten the duration of my degree/training?

Exams you sit during the trial period may be recognised as part of your subsequent degree programme. This means you won’t have to retake these modules later, allowing you to start your degree more relaxed thanks to a less demanding timetable.

For every exam you have sat and passed, you will receive written confirmation. You can submit this to Darmstadt University of Applied Sciences or other universities for recognition.

Important: The decision on whether to recognise academic achievements and examination results is made by the respective higher education institutions. Recognition is usually granted upon application to the relevant examination board for the degree programme in question.

What happens if I fail an exam?

For exams you sit as part of the taster course, you will be given an extra attempt. If you fail an exam, that attempt simply won’t count. This means that when you start your degree programme later on, it will be as if that exam attempt had never taken place.

Do I have to take part in hejmint right until the end, even if I’ve already decided on a vocational training course or a degree programme during the programme?

If you’ve already decided on a degree course or vocational training programme during your taster programme, you don’t need to attend the courses and sessions right to the end. Just let us know when your time with us is over, and we’ll help you make the transition to your chosen vocational training programme or degree course.