Coronavirus

Dear students,

Meanwhile the start of the semester is almost 3 weeks ago; there is life on campus (in Weihenstephan as well as in Triesdorf) and the courses can (almost) take place as we were used to before Corona. Online teaching has worked well for the most part, but cannot replace personal encounters and classroom teaching at the university in the long term. It is precisely the personal encounters and the exchange that characterize a course of study.

With the largely abolition of the requirements of the 15^th Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance, politicians are giving another signal for a return to normality. From April 4th, the 3G rule for entering the university buildings will no longer apply.

Despite this, the incidences are still very high and there are numerous infections and quarantine cases among staff and students at our university. Fortunately, as far as we know, the cases are not severe - regardless of this, we will adhere to a few precautionary measures at the university (initially until the end of April 2022):

1. In the rooms of the HSWT (including the library) there is still an obligation to wear an FFP2 mask (exception: a distance of 1.5 meters from other people can be ensured throughout. In this case, the mask may be removed after the lecturer has expressly requested it.)
2. If it is not possible to wear an FFP2 mask throughout internships, a minimum distance of 1.5 meters to other people must be safely maintained. Here, too, it is essential to follow the instructions of the respective lecturer.
3. There is still a ban on entry if you are infected with the corona virus or if a quarantine has been ordered by the health department
4. If you have clear symptoms of a cold (cough, runny nose, etc.) you should not come to the university, but first recover
5. The well-known hygiene rules continue to apply: please disinfect or wash your hands immediately after entering the building, make sure that you keep sufficient distances and adhere to the cough and sneeze etiquette.

These regulations have been coordinated with the other Bavarian universities. Should there be any changes, we will of course inform you promptly. It is a central concern for us to reduce health risks for lecturers, staff and students as much as possible. As part of the transfer of domiciliary rights, persons who do not comply with these rules may be expelled from the building by lecturers or staff.

Please help to avoid unnecessary infections (and thus endangering people at risk) by complying with these rules. In particular, wearing FFP2 masks has proven to be effective against the Omikron variant in recent months, as has compliance with general distance and hygiene rules.

On behalf of the entire university management as well as all lecturers and employees at the HSWT, I wish you a good semester. As usual, you will receive further up-to-date information in this newsletter in the coming weeks.

Best regards,
Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear students at our university,

a warm welcome back to the campus - be it in Weihenstephan or in Triesdorf!

We are very happy to finally be able to meet you again, mostly in face-to-face classes. In the meantime, only students in the higher semesters know the university "before Corona" - and thus also life on campus, the many good contacts and the experiences that are simply part of studying. We are all the more pleased that we can return to attendance in the summer semester. Despite all efforts to enable you to make regular progress in your studies with extensive online offers and internships in small groups, one thing is clear to us: classroom teaching cannot be permanently replaced by anything at a university of applied sciences - especially not in courses like ours! Classroom teaching cannot be permanently replaced by anything at a university of applied sciences - especially not in degree programmes like ours!

As you may have already noticed, in view of the high incidences throughout Bavaria, the regulations of the 15^th Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance (with a few exceptions) were extended up to and including 2 April 2022. This means

1. The obligation to wear FFP2 masks continues to exist in all university buildings (only in individual cases, if the distances of 1.5 m can be safely maintained in classrooms, the mask may be removed after the lecturer has expressly requested it - this applies above all to certain laboratory internships)
2. The 3G regulation remains in place for access to all university buildings (checks will continue to be carried out on a random basis, so please always carry your 3G proof with you!).

If you have any questions regarding the current Corona regulations, please send an e-mail to corona-aktuell [at]hswt.de. Irrespective of this, we naturally hope that the rate of infection will subside towards the summer - similar to what we know from the two previous years.

Important for you to know: we will not be extending the Corona statutes for the summer semester 2022. Since Art. 99 BayHSchG (Bavarian Higher Education Act) is not expected to be extended either, this means that the deadlines in particular, which were suspended for four semesters in a row, are now starting to run again. If you did not pass an exam during one of the the Corona semesters, deadlines are relevant for you in the following cases:

1. If you have already taken an exam for the first time but failed, the following applies: you have a period of 6 months (= 1^st repeat exam) to repeat the exam (summer semester 2022)
2. If you have not passed an exam on the second attempt either, you have 12 months for your third attempt (= 2^nd repeat exam), i.e. you must take the exam in the semester after the next semester at the latest (winter semester 2022/23) - and then hopefully pass.
3. In addition, depending on the degree programme, there are regulations that certain examinations must be taken for the first time at a time specified in the study and examination regulations (SPO). This rule is now in effect again.

If you are unable to take part in an examination for which there is a deadline, you can apply for an extension of the deadline (insofar as it is a matter of reasons for which you are not responsible). The application must be submitted to StudentService or the Examination Office before the examination; if you are ill, for example, you need a medical certificate as proof.

If you are unsure whether and for which exam you have to observe a deadline, please contact StudentService or the Examination Office, the General Student Advisory Service or the study advisor in your degree program as early as possible. Following a suggestion of the student parliament, we will also offer a zoom appointment in the near future, during which the staff of the General Student Advisory Service will answer questions about deadlines and exam planning (dates will follow!)

As in previous semesters, the departments will try to offer dates for repeat examinations before the beginning of the official examination period in order to limit the stress during the actual examination period.

There will certainly be many more questions in the coming weeks. We will (as in previous semesters) keep you informed and will do our best to ensure that your studies run as smoothly as possible. If you have problems, please also contact your Lstudent representative and (if you have specific questions about the lectures or lecture plans) your lecturers or your dean's office.

On behalf of the entire university management, all lecturers and the HSWT staff, I wish you a good start into an exciting and successful summer semester 2022.

Best regards,

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear students,

The time has finally come: with the current easing of the corona restrictions, we can return to face-to-face teaching in the summer semester 2022 - not only (as before) for the practical training, but also for all other face-to-face formats. We will use this opportunity to largely return to face-to-face operations at the beginning of the semester, to make sure that you can enjoy a normal campus life with as few restrictions as possible.

If you have been hesitant to look for accommodation on campus for the summer semester: you should definitely do so now!

As of today, the 3G regulation applies to the universities again: People who are neither fully vaccinated nor recovered can now access the HSWT premises again if they have a current negative test (proof of negative rapid antigen test is sufficient). For the time being, we will be checking this randomly, just as you know it from the winter semester.

Please refer to your lecture plans and the information provided by your department to find out how the semester starts on 14 March 2022, as there may be differences between the departments and degree programmes. In general, however, the following applies: The summer semester 2022 will take place again largely in face-to-face classes! 

We will inform you promptly about further details, in particular with regard to current mask and distance regulations.

With best regards,

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear colleagues,
dear employees,
dear students,

This afternoon we received the information that the Bavarian cabinet decided today to adapt the 15^th Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance:
www.bayern.de/bericht-aus-der-kabinettssitzung-vom-25-januar-2022/

The 3G rule applies to exams from Thursday, January 27, 2022. This means that participation is possible for people who do not meet the 2G requirements with a current, negative antigen rapid test.  The test must not be older than 24 hours and it must be an official test (= no self-test). This means that individuals who are not (or not fully) vaccinated no longer need a PCR test (or a written justification as to why none could be carried out).

However, please do not forget: omicron cases may mostly be milder - but this disease is not a trifle. It is important to avoid infections and, in particular, to protect vulnerable people from infection. Make sure (regardless of whether you tested negative, are recovered or have been fully vaccinated and/or even received the booster) that you comply with the rules of distance and hygiene and consistently wear your FFP2 mask on the university premises!

Kind regards,

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear students,

After recent changes regarding those who have recovered or who have been vaccinated with Johnson & Johnson, we have received further information that are a relief for those affected:

1. if you have been vaccinated with Johnson & Johnson, this counts as a first vaccination (as with the other vaccines), ie we can reimburse you for the costs of a PCR tests necessary to participate in an examination until full vaccination protection has been achieved (up to 14 days after the second vaccination). Please bring the completed application form and a personalized invoice for your PCR test with you to the exam and hand them in when you register (download form).
2. if you have recovered and then get vaccinated, you will be considered "fully vaccinated" immediately after that vaccination.

Should it not be possible to get an appointment for a PCR test (or to receive the result in time), you may take an official rapid test instead to participate in the exam. However, you must briefly explain to us in writing why you are unable to provide a PCR test result. Please submit this justification when registering for the exam.

Kind regards,

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen, dear members of the HSWT,

After yesterday's information about the shortened validity of convalescent certificates, we have received additional information affecting access to university buildings / participation in exams: people who have been vaccinated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine only (single dose), are no longer considered fully vaccinated. The regulations for unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated persons apply to those affected with immediate effect.

Please visit the website of the Bavarian Ministry of Health for information on the currently applicable regulations (in German): www.stmgp.bayern.de/coronavirus

Kind regards,

Dr Eric Veulliet, President

Prof. Dr Sabine Homann-Wenig, Vice-President - Studies and Didactics

Dr Karla Sichelschmidt, Chancellor

Dear Ladies and Gentlemen, dear members of the HSWT,

We would like to point out that the (Robert Koch Institute) RKI has recently reduced the validity of convalescent certificates from 180 to 90 days. This is effective immediately. Since this is a higher-level regulation, we have no discretion when it comes to implementation.

This also has an impact on the forthcoming examination period. If your recovered certificate has already expired at the time of an examination, you are considered unvaccinated (unless you have already received a vaccination after the infection) and must therefore present a negative PCR test.

We ask for your attention.

Kind regards,

Dr Eric Veulliet, President

Prof. Dr Sabine Homann-Wenig, Vice-President - Studies and Didactics

Dr Karla Sichelschmidt, Chancellor

Dear students,

First of all, I would like to wish you all the best for the new year 2022: above all, good health! Let's hope that the year 2022 will finally bring us back to normality.

The first week of classes is coming to an end and the first exams are already taking place. According to the meeting of the Bavarian cabinet on Tuesday, the adjustments to the Fifteenth Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance (15^th BayIfSMV) have no direct impact on teaching and examinations at the universities. The 2G regulation continues to apply to courses in attendance and 3G plus to examinations.

You can find the regulation (in German, including the legal basis) on the website of the Ministry of Science: https://www.stmwk.bayern.de/kunst-und-kultur/meldung/6461/faq-grundlegendes-zum-hochschulbetrieb-zur-forschung-und-zum-kulturellen-leben.html

For the current winter semester examination period, all deadlines, especially for repeat examinations, have been suspended. There is no obligation to take a repeat examination that is actually due - the exam will not be rated as "failed". There is also no need to apply for an extension of the deadline. However, if you take the examination, the result will be counted.

There are many uncertainties, especially with regard to the proof of 3G plus in examinations, since the regulations are sometimes complex and can deviate from the rules in other areas of public life (gastronomy, schools, etc.).

In principle, the following rules apply:

1. The 3G-plus regulation is based on the 15^th BayIfSMV; i.e. it is binding for all state universities.
2. All persons who are either fully vaccinated or have recovered or present a negative PCR test result (not oldar than 48 hours) fulfill 3G plus.   
3. The verification of the 3G plus rule for examinations in presence must not be carried out randomly, i.e. we have to check the relevant certificates or proofs of all participants.

You are considered fully vaccinated if you

1. have received your 2^nd vaccination at least 14 days ago or
2. have been vaccinated with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine at least 14 days ago and/or
3. have already received a 3^rd vaccination (with the Johnson & Johnson vaccine: 2nd vaccination) (without an additional waiting period)

Proof of vaccination can be provided via: vaccination certificate in paper form or digitally (CovPass-App or Corona-Warn-App)

1. also: if you have had COVID-19 and received a single vaccine afterwards. In this case, in addition to the vaccination certificate, you must also present a certificate of recovery.

You are considered recovered if you present a valid certificate of recovery not older than 6 months.

If you do not meet the requirements for either "recovered" or "fully vaccinated" you can still participate in face-to-face exams if you can present an negative PCR or nucleic acid test ((not older than 48 hours). You have to pay for this test yourself. The university may only cover the costs for the PCR test for students who have already been vaccinated once (cf. information to all students from December 20, 2021; www.hswt.de/hochschule/coronavirus.html). 

PCR tests are not always available in all test centers and results might be delivered with a long delay. In view of the importance of (continuing) education and training and the importance of the examinations, admission can therefore be granted on the basis of a negative rapid antigen test (not older than 24 hours). 

1. In this case, you must demonstrate that it was not possible or reasonable to carry out a PCR or nucleic acid test. This must be done in writing; the justification must indicate that you have attempted to obtain a PCR test. The written justification must be submitted when registering for the exam; it will be stored with the exam papers initially (in accordance with data protection regulations) and then promptly destroyed. 
2. A negative result of an antigen rapid test (test center, pharmacy), not older than 24 hours, must be submitted. Self-tests will not be recognized! 

Of course, if you are obliged to quarantine, you are not allowed to enter the university - not even to take an exam! Please be sure to follow the guidelines of the health department, otherwise you will have to expect significant penalties.

It is and remains important for our face-to-face exams to comply with the rules of distance and hygiene, which saved us from nasty surprises in the past exams. Please make sure not to form groups (especially not indoors) and to wear your FFP2 mask. Despite all the inconveniences: only the combination of the various measures can prevent infections with a high degree of probability.

We hope that we could at least answer some of your questions on this complex subject. Of course, this newsletter can only provide information based on the current legal situation. We will inform you as soon as possible, should there be any changes.

Best regards + stay healthy
Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear Students,

Last week we informed you that the Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences can cover the costs for the required PCR test for students, who can provide evidence of a primary vaccination at the day of the examination, but do not yet have full vaccination protection (= 2^nd vaccination + 14 days).

Here you will find the relevant application form (in German), which you should fill out in advance, bring along with the invoice (issued in your name) for the PCR test to the examination and hand it in when you register. The supervisor will also check the confirmation of your first vaccination (vaccination card, app or printout) and forward your application and invoice to the finance department. Please be patient if the reimbursement takes some time.

Further information on data protection can be found here (in German).

Should it not be possible to carry out a PCR test, you currently need to confirm in writing that a PCR test was not available. In this case, a negative rapid antigen test (not older than 24 hours) is sufficient.

Best regards, stay healthy!

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear Students,

There have been repeated questions regarding the PCR tests which are needed for the participation in examinations (3G plus regulation). Yesterday we received some new information about adjustments that we are happy to pass on to you:

For exams, 3G plus is required, i.e. the mandatory proof of a PCR test for those who have not been vaccinated and have not recovered. Additionally, the following additional information applies:

1. Sample checks of the 'Corona status' are not sufficient for examinations - ALL participants must be checked. It is essential that you bring your relevant evidence with you to the examination and take into account that the examination will take some time during registration (please arrive in good time!)
2. For students who can provide evidence of a primary vaccination, the costs of the PCR test can be covered by the university. A written application with the bank account details, the - personalized - invoice for the PCR test and proof of the first vaccination is required. The application can be submitted to the examination supervisor and will be forwarded.
3. Students who declare in writing that they could not have a PCR test carried out can alternatively submit a negative antigen test proof (not older than 24 hours).

Wir sind sehr froh, dass durch diese Regelungen die Teilnahme an Präsenzprüfungen für nicht/ nicht vollständig Geimpfte erleichtert werden kann. 

We are very happy that these regulations make it easier to participate in face-to-face exams for those who are not (yet) fully vaccinated.

Many greetings

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear students.

we have received some new information yesterday and would like to inform you accordingly:

Yesterday afternoon, the Bavarian State Parliament (Bayerische Landtag) decided to extend the COVID-19-related regulations on individual standard study times and examinations set in the Bavarian University Act (Bayerisches Hochschulgesetz). This means that all current deadlines for repeating examinations and for taking certain examinations for the first time will be extended by one semester. An application for an extension of the deadline to the responsible examination committee is therefore not required.

More information (in German) is available at: https://www.stmwk.bayern.de/allgemein/meldung/6770/fuer-studierende-corona-regelungen-zur-individuellen-regelstudienzeit-und-zu-pruefungen-werden-erneut-verlaengert.html

In the last few days, we have very clearly articulated our concerns regarding the feasibility of the '3G plus' regulation for the participation in examinations to the ministry, e.g. in view of the limited availability of PCR tests. There is now a new regulation: If you provide a credible assurance that you could not obtain a PCR test from the test centre, a rapid antigen test (no self-test!), not older than 24 hours, can be accepted as an alternative. This applies, for example, if the availability of PCR tests in the test centres in Freising or Triesdorf is limited during the respective period.

If you belong to a particularly vulnerable group (i.e. you cannot be vaccinated due to a medical indication or have an increased risk despite being vaccinated), please contact the respective lecturer as soon as possible in order to find a solution in cooperation with the examination committee which offers you the best possible protection during the exam.

Of course, we very much hope that the infection rate will stabilize - but we cannot count on it. Of course, we will inform you promptly if there are any further changes.

Many greetings
Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear students.

We keep receiving critical questions concerning the current Corona regulations. We can well understand that the mostly short-term, not always clear and often very drastic provisions lead to frustration and anger. Even for us - the university management and the teachers at our university - the implementation is not easy. Our goal is to make sure that you find good study conditions and that you feel comfortable at the HSWT. However, we cannot act freely and are obliged to implement the state requirements.

The current requirements are as follows:

The implementation of the '2G rule' is based on the 15th Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance (Bayerische Infektionsschutzmaßnahmenverordnung). We can only deviate from the 2G rule for field internships and similar events that take place outdoors. This means that students who are not or not yet fully vaccinated can also take part. The university is obliged to implement this regulation.

However, 2G does not mean that unrestricted face-to-face teaching can and may be carried out: In addition to the legitimate interest of the students in studying face-to-face, all members of the university have the right to protect their health, and the university has to take care of this. In the last few weeks we have seen that fully vaccinated students and employees can also become infected and in some cases even get sick. In view of the current incidence rates, full classrooms are not responsible, even with a mask requirements. The other Bavarian universities have also reduced their face-to-face offerings in the last few weeks - to a greater or lesser extent depending on the local and spatial conditions.

We have decided to continue to offer in-person events at the HSWT which cannot be carried out online. The face-to-face events are primarily of practical nature, which, due to the necessary distance and hygiene regulations, require considerable additional effort for preparation and implementation for the lecturers and laboratory engineers. It is therefore not correct to say that face-to-face events at the HSWT will no longer be offered.

The 3G plus regulation for exams (= PCR tests for students who are not or not yet fully vaccinated) is a regulation we would have liked otherwise, but to which we are bound. We are very well aware that it represents a great hardship for those affected because of the costs and the possibly limited testing options. We hope that the state government will still change this regulation. The university cannot cover the costs (as has been requested in some cases).

For the exams in the current winter semester, the departments have a high degree of flexibility: in particular, examinations might take less time and alternative forms of examinations, that do not require presence at the university, are offered (e.g. orally via zoom, project work, etc.). Our aim is, on the one hand, to reduce the risk of infection during exams and, on the other hand, to enable as many students as possible to progress in their studies (both those who prefer to come to the university as little as possible in the current situation, and those who have not yet [fully] been vaccinated). In addition, deadlines can be extended upon request.

Occasionally, reference is made to "hybrid teaching formats" that have been common at universities for years. In fact, universities started broadcasting lectures from one room to another 20 years ago, especially for mass courses (and for some years they have also been streaming them) - but mainly due to a lack of sufficiently large rooms. However, a hybrid teaching format is something completely different. Didactically, "filming" a lecture is rarely useful - e.g. because only in rare cases both groups can be addressed equally. Who decides which students are allowed to attend "on site" - and which students have to stay at home? So-called "alternating lessons", as you may know it from schools, can hardly be put into practice at a university. Our solution is to offering all lectures which can be offered online, online for everyone. From our point of view, this is much fairer, especially towards the students.

We are aware that this semester is not going as we all would have liked. We are aware of your disappointment that recently only practical work can be offered in-person. However, we ask for your understanding that we have to weigh up different interests (which sometimes are difficult to reconcile) and make unpopular decisions. Please use the opportunity to talk to your lecturers and your student representatives in the departments - this is the only way to find suitable solutions to enable you to get ahead in your studies despite the difficult situation.

Many greetings

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear students,

You may have noticed that the framework conditions that we have to deal with have been changing frequently. There is now new information on the implementation of the regulations of the 15t^h Bavarian Infection Protection Measures Ordinance ('Bayerische Infektionsschutzmaßnahmenverordnung') that apply to us:

1. The 2G rule does not apply to practical trainig activities outdoor (i.e. field trips, etc.)! This means that students who have not been vaccinated or have recovered can also take part in these events. We are very happy that this is still possible. The 3G rule applies; a quick test is sufficient. In any case, please pay attention to the hygiene and distance rules - especially when arriving and departing.
2. For compulsory practical training, in which proof of performance, e.g. attestations, are provided and which are to be seen as part of an examination, the 3G plus rule generally applies (as it does for examinations in presence). Participation is allowed for vaccinated and for recovered students, as well as for students possessing a negative PCR test (not older than 48 hours). The examination committees clarify together with the lecturers in which cases this is to be applied.
3. According to the current state of knowledge, PCR tests must be paid for by students themselves (exception: a medical certificate proves that vaccination is not possible for medical reasons). We hope that there will be changes on this point.

We are aware that the PCR test regulations in particular are very drastic for those affected. We will check to what extent we can enable you to make progress in your studies. However, these are requirements that all universities have to adhere to - i.e. we cannot offer participation in face-to-face events without a PCR test.

However, this is the current status from today; we assume there will be changes in the next days and weeks. Of course, we will inform you promptly.

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear students,

the '2G rule' will apply to Bavarian universities from November 24th (00:00). This means that only fully vaccinated and recovered students are allowed to enter the university buildings. As soon as an incidence of 1,000 is reached, face-to-face teaching is no longer permitted.

The university management has discussed a practical implementation of the new regulations with the deans and the student representative in a special meeting of the extended university management this afternoon:

1. From Wednesday, November 24^th, only fully vaccinated or recovered students have access to the HSWT buildings ('2G rule')
2. All courses where attendance is not absolutely necessary will be held online from November 24^th.
3. If attendance is absolutely necessary (especially mandatory laboratory internships), the 2G-status is now mandatory and must be checked on a random basis; the respective teacher decides whether an additional self-test must be carried out at the beginning of the course (these can be obtained from the faculty).
4. For students who do not meet the 2G rule, we will offer adequate solutions to ensure the success of their studies. We will communicate details on this as soon as possible.

This information corresponds to our current level of knowledge. In particular, we have to fear that if an incidence value of 1,000 is reached on the respective campus, a lockdown will be necessary. That means that in the worst case no more face-to-face events (including practical exercises) will be possible. The incidence in the district of Ansbach is currently just under 700, in the district of Freising around 500.

It is more than regrettable that the development is now coming to a head again - but in the end we only have to implement the necessary measures in the best possible way. The aim must be to offer you a good range of courses despite everything - but at the same time to protect us all from infections with the COVID 19 virus. Please let us - as in the previous waves of infections - stick together and take care of each other.

On behalf of the university management and the extended university management

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear students,

We were all delighted to finally be able to return to (almost) normal university life in October. However, we have since seen a rapid rise in infection rates. On a daily basis, we hear from students who have to had quarantine due to infection. Even those who are fully vaccinated are being affected by this.

Although for us at HSWT in particular it is extremely important for students to attend the many practical sessions and similar events in person, given the current developments, given current developments we need to proceed with caution. Our aim has to be to enable you to attend your course without it posing incalculable risks to students, teachers and employees.

The extended university management team has today agreed on supplementary measures that we hope will help to keep infections at our university under control: 

1. In-person lessons and events will now be limited to groups of up to approx. 30 students ( (depending on the room). In particular, we want to continue offering in-person practicals, seminars and exercises. 
2. Going forward, we will again be offering online options for larger groups so that we can avoid the possibility of there being – as is sometimes the case – more than 100 people in a room (as well as the infection risks involved in travelling there and back).
   
3. Students are required to wear an FFP2 mask throughout all HSWT buildings. We recommend wearing a mask even in lessons where a distance of 1.5 m can be maintained from other people.
4. In practicals where the mask needs to be removed, we recommend that all participating students take a test, irrespective of their vaccination status; vaccinated and recovered individuals can be offered a supervised self-test before the lesson starts.
5. For the week of 20 to 23 December we will largely switch to online lessons so that you (and staff) are able to self-isolate before travelling to spend time with family.
6. Departments also have the option of temporarily switching completely to online teaching if required (e.g. if there are a lot of positive tests on a particular course/during a semester).

We are also returning increasingly to online formats for internal events (e.g. committee meetings, working groups); conferences with external participants will now only take place with more stringent precautions in place (e.g. 2G+ rule) until further notice.

The situation is changing very quickly for us at present – the measures outlined above may be 'overwritten' by new requirements from the ministry and the state government in the near future. If this does happen, we will update you on any new developments as soon as possible. 

Greetings - and stay safe,

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear students,

As of today, the "coronavirus hospital traffic light system" is "red" in Bavaria. For universities, nothing will change from the "amber" traffic light: an FFP2 or equivalent mask must be worn in all areas / situations where a mask is required (medical masks are not sufficient). Beyond that, there is no tightening of the current rules.

In light of the considerable increase in case numbers, please always ensure you adhere to social distancing and hygiene rules, including in private settings.

You should test yourself or get tested if you start having typical symptoms. If you test positive for COVID-19, please inform us by email at corona-aktuell [at]hswt.de, stating your degree programme and semester. This will give us the chance to inform those you may have had contact with about their infection risk without providing your name.

Let’s all do what we can to prevent the situation from getting worse.

Greetings - and stay healthy!

Sabine Homann-Wenig

Dear student,

The time has finally come and we can return more broadly to in-person studies in the 2021/22 winter semester! We can reopen the buildings for your use and since we no longer have to comply with social distancing rules (as long as medical masks are worn), we can now return to a largely normal study programme.

However, the pandemic is sadly not yet over and we must adhere to several rules. At the end of the day, these rules are for your own protection and are set out in guidance we have been given. You can find more information in HSWT’s hygiene plan. We have put together all the key information for you:

'3-G' rule

• Students may access university spaces from Monday to Friday, from 6.30 a.m. to 8.00 p.m. Unfortunately, 24-hour opening (as was offered in some buildings before the pandemic) is not currently possible.
• When you enter the buildings, you must comply with the '3-G' rule. Specifically, this means that you must be vaccinated or recovered or be able to present a recent negative test result.
  The following are valid as proof: 
1. Proof of full preventative immunisation against SARS-CoV-2 in German, English, French, Italian or Spanish (written or digital certificate) with a vaccine authorised in Germany
2. Proof of past infection with SARS-CoV-2 in German, English, French, Italian or Spanish (written or digital certificate), based on a positive test that was taken at least 28 days ago and no more than six months ago
3. Written or electronic proof of a negative test result for SARS-CoV-2 infection based on a PCR test, PoC PCR test or a test using another nucleic acid amplification method  (carried out within the previous 48 hours) or a PoC antigen test (carried out within the previous 24 hours)
• The university is obligated to strictly monitor these forms of proof by conducting spot checks. Checks will be carried out either by teaching staff or by individuals appointed by the departments (staff or security personnel), who may also ask to see a form of ID to verify your identity. Please always have the relevant proof to hand so that the checks can be made quickly, if necessary.
• In certain sessions (e.g. sensor technology exercises), in which masks must be removed, but where it is not possible for all participants to maintain a distance of 1.5 m from each other, all participants’ compliance with the '3-G' rule will be monitored.
• If you are unable to show any of the types of proof during a check, you must leave the building immediately. In this case, you must provide your name and matriculation number. If you submit proof of vaccination, recovery or a negative test result (which was obtained before your visit to the university) within three days, we will not need to report the failure to comply as a  regulatory offence.

Social distancing and hygiene rules

• Masks (FFP2 or medical masks) must be worn in all university buildings
• After entering the building, please wash or sanitise your hands (depending on the options available). While in the building, you should also make use of the opportunities to sanitise your hands.
• Masks may be removed if minimum social distancing of 1.50 m is guaranteed at all times in lessons or in the workplace – but only once all participants have taken their seats. If you leave your seat, please put your mask back on first.
• Depending on the options available, routes and separate entrances and exits are marked. If this is the case, please familiarise yourself with the requirements.
• Please comply with the applicable hygiene rules (coughing and sneezing etiquette, etc.), avoid close contact, e.g. hugging, and regularly make use of the opportunities to wash and/or sanitise your hands.

Test offers

Tests for students will remain free of charge until at least 30 November 2021. For organisational reasons, the university is unable to offer tests itself. However, you can use the following options which are very close by:

• Campus Freising: Weihenstephan COVID-19 test centre (Alte Akademie, Weihenstephaner Berg) and the Luitpoldanlage test centre in Freising
• Campus Triesdorf: Weidenbach Am Sportplatz test centre in Triesdorf (only a few hundred metres from campus) or the Ansbach test centre

Please find out whether options for getting tested are available in the morning before the start of lectures and whether online registration is required. If in doubt, it is a good idea to get tested in the afternoon or evening of the day before!

Persons, who are medically exempt from wearing a mask or who have at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill

• Students who are medically exempt from wearing a mask and whose medical certificate has been verified by the Examinations Office, but who nevertheless wish to attend a class in person must come into as little contact as possible with others when entering and leaving the lecture hall.
• Students who are unable to receive a vaccination for medical reasons, at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill despite being vaccinated or are pregnant and do not wish to participate in in-person sessions should contact the subject advisor for their degree programme as soon as possible. We will try to ensure that affected students still receive a largely normal course of study, even when then cannot attend in-person sessions (or if their attendance is limited).

Even though we can (finally!) return to in-person teaching, the 2021/22 winter semester is by no means a return to how things were 'before COVID-19'. Compliance with the existing rules means additional effort for all of us – lecturers, students and staff at HSWT. The new semester again presents a great deal of challenges, particularly for the departments, who organise teaching activities.

Please do your best and support us in this to ensure that teaching at our university runs as smoothly as possible.

On behalf of the university management, the lecturers and all HSWT staff, I would like to wish you an excellent start to the semester.

Sabine Homann-Wenig

1. PCR tests can be taken in your local test centre according to the Bavarian testing strategy to provide tests to everyone. Evidence of the test will then be issued by the test centre and must be shown before participation in an activity that requires a test.
2. Rapid antigen tests for use by professionals ("rapid tests") must be carried out or supervised by medical professionals or other comparable, specially trained persons. This is generally possible at local test centres, doctor’s surgeries, dental practices, pharmacies, medical laboratories, rescue and relief organisations and testing sites run by the public health service according to Section 2 No. 7 c) of the COVID-19 Protective Measures Exemption Directive (SchAusnahmV), but also in the course of workplace testing for occupational health and safety purposes in accordance with Section 2 No. 7 c) of the COVID-19 Protective Measures Exemption Directive (SchAusnahmV) or at the site of the activity that requires a test, insofar as the test is carried out by medical professionals or other comparable, specially trained persons. One-off training is not enough; such persons must also have a comparable qualification.

FFP2 masks must be worn in all university buildings.

Masks may be removed if minimum social distancing of 1.50 m is guaranteed at all times in lessons or in the workplace – but only once all participants have taken their seats. If you leave your seat, please put your mask back on first.

Masks must be worn at all times in the library and in independent study rooms, regardless of social distancing.

After entering the building, please wash or sanitise your hands (depending on the options available). While in the building, you should also make use of the opportunities to sanitise your hands.

Depending on the options available, routes and separate entrances and exits are marked. If this is the case, please familiarise yourself with the requirements.

Please comply with the applicable hygiene rules (coughing and sneezing etiquette, etc.), avoid close contact, e.g. hugging, and regularly make use of the opportunities to wash and/or sanitise your hands.

From 4 October 2021, the university buildings will be open from 6.30 am to 8 pm, Monday to Friday. These opening hours also apply to buildings that were previously open 24/7.

As before, individuals who have symptoms of COVID-19 are strictly prohibited from entering the university.

Lifts may only be used by one person at a time. This also applies to other confined spaces where social distancing is not possible. Avoid lingering in these areas.

We recommend that all university members use the Corona-Warn-App when on university premises.

Individuals with an appropriate medical certificate can apply to the university for a document exempting them from wearing a face mask. The medical certificate should include the expert medical assessment of the clinical picture (diagnosis), the Latin name or the classification of the disease in accordance with ICD 10 and the reason why the individual concerned is therefore exempt from the obligation to wear a mask. Applications must be submitted by email to the HR department (staff) or the Examinations Office (students) and must include a scanned copy of the medical certificate.

Information sheet on exemptions from wearing a face mask

Info for students

Material to accompany and support the lectures will be made available via Moodle. Students can obtain access codes to Moodle courses from their lecturers.

Teaching staff will help you to use it. You will find more detailed information on ensuring you are able to study and on the online range of courses on the pages for your individual degree programmes.

Should you have any questions regarding your internship, please speak to your supervisor.

Departments can make rooms available to their students for independent study. Masks must be worn at all times in these rooms.

The following rules apply to these rooms and to computing rooms in order to prevent the spread of infection

1. The room manager(s) is/are responsible for ensuring the rooms are used in compliance with COVID-19 rules.
2. Masks must be worn at all times except in lessons where social distancing is observed.
3. Each student must sanitise their hands  (appropriate products must be provided).
4. The room must be fully aired at regular intervals.
5. A manager will check compliance with the rules regularly (several times a day). During a check, all those present will be checked and will be expected to have their proof of status to hand.
6. Each student must sanitise their hands before and once they have finished using their computer (appropriate products must be provided).

The Students’ Union is no longer operating a goodwill system. You may only use Munich public transport if you have an up-to-date imprint on the MVV logo on your Student.Card.

You can find more details under MVV semester ticket (in German only).

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Munich Students’ Union is adjusting its services to meet current requirements.

Information about the current situation at Munich Students’ Union

Detailed information can be found in the online course guidance section.

Following validation stations are now accessible from 6.30 a.m. to 8.00 p.m.:

1. A6 main entrance on the north side (open 7.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m.)
2. C4.221 machine room, basement --- currently out of order ---
3. NEW: A9 Kustermannhalle, entrance on the north side via machine room

Please note the hygiene rules displayed.

You can find general information about your Student.Card here.

Contact helpdesk [at]hswt.de or the Student.Service on +49 8161 71 5592.

With regard to teaching and exams, the statutes on the amendment of the Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences statutes on the deviation from the general exam regulations and the study and examination regulations on account of restrictions on teaching and examinations due to the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus (COVID-19 statutes) dated 15 April 2021 continue to apply in their latest form.

HSWT coronavirus statutes (in German)

Hygiene plan dated 29 April 2022

Tests for students will remain free of charge until at least 30 November 2021. For organisational reasons, the university is unable to offer tests itself. However, you can use the following options which are very close by: 

• Freising campus: Weihenstephan COVID-19 test centre (Alte Akademie), and the Luitpoldanlage test centre in Freising
• Triesdorf campus: Weidenbach 'Am Sportplatz' test centre in Triesdorf (only a few hundred metres from campus) or the Ansbach test centre

Individuals with a heightened risk of falling seriously ill if infected with coronavirus (people in risk groups specified by the Robert Koch Institute) and pregnant women are recommended to take the necessary measures to protect themselves. This may include wearing a respirator with the required personal level of protection. Advice is available from the university medical service.

Teaching staff in risk groups are advised to conduct all their lessons exclusively online wherever possible to avoid physical contact with students. This also applies to individuals who are exempt from wearing a face mask for health reasons.

The Munich Student Union aligns its offers during the coronavirus pandemic according to the applicable requirements.

Current accessibility of the Munich Student Union

BAföG payments will continue despite the closures and entry bans relating to the coronavirus. More information (in German):

Das BAföG eröffnet Bildungschancen

Keine Nachteile durch das Coronavirus

Let’s help each other! During this time, we would particularly like to draw your attention to the following advisory services:

General Course Guidance

Weihenstephan

For help in a crisis:

• Freising Caritas Centre
  T +49 8161 53879-10
  
  
• Caritas Freising Social and Psychiatric Services
  T +49 8161 53879-50
  
  
• KASA Freising deaconry
  T +49 8161 147079

For help in an emergency:

• Telephone pastoral care
  T +49 800 1110111 oder +49 800 1110222
  
  
• Die Arche, crisis advice centre
  T +49 89 334041

• University pastoral care from the university community:
  info [at]hsg-freising.de
  

Munich Student Union:

• General and Social Advisory Service Freising
• Psychotherapeutic and Psychosocial Advisory Services
• BAföG Advisory Service

Triesdorf

For help in an emergency:

• Diakonie Ansbach Social and Psychiatric Services
  T +49 981 14440
  sozialpsych-dienst-ansbach [at]diakonie-ansbach.de
  
  
• Ansbach District Hospital Emergency Service
  T +49 981 46530
  
  
• Mittelfranken Crisis service
  T +49 911 4248550

Triesdorf University pastoral care:

• Pfarrerin Simone Sippel, evangelical
  T +49 9826 2 47
  simone.sippel [at]elkb.de
  
  
• Dr Wolfgang Börschlein, catholic
  T +49 9826 388
  ornbau [at]bistum-eichstaett.de

For help in a crisis:

Erlangen-Nürnberg Student Union

• Psychosocial Advisory Service
  T +49 9131 891 741 oder +49 9131 8002 750
  
  
• Social Advisory Service
  T +49 08131 8002 52
  
  
• BAföG Advisory Service
  T +49 9131 8917 0

Ansbach Caritas Centre

• T +49 981 9716823
  sozialberatung [at]caritas-ansbach.de

Parental, youth, and family counselling

• T +49 981 468 55 55

Ansbach South Public Aid for people with disabilities

• T +49 9822 7208
  peter.faigle [at]regens-wagner.de

The interim financial aid scheme for students in situations of hardship caused by the pandemic expired on 30 September 2021. Applications have now closed. The students’ unions are processing all applications submitted by 30 September 2021. Further information is available on the website Interim financial aid for students (Überbrückungshilfe für Studierende).

Information about study-related stays abroad for students (in German)

If you are currently abroad and are planning your journey (back) to HSWT, the International Office has put together some important information on the current regulations concerning entry regulations and quarantine for you:

Information on travelling to HSWT from abroad

Please contact the International Office if you have any questions.

For questions concerning the coronavirus crisis, please contact the International Office.

Please also note the information on "Entry restrictions and quarantine" further up on this page.

The current risk areas can be found at the Robert Koch Institute's webpage.