Prüfungsamt

Prüfungsamt, or examinations office, is a central administrative unit at many German-speaking universities responsible for formal procedures related to studies and examinations. It serves as the primary point of contact for students, faculties, and examination boards on matters involving exams, performance records, and degree documentation. The office ensures compliance with study and examination regulations (Prüfungsordnungen) and maintains official student records.

Key tasks of the Prüfungsamt include registering students for examinations and deregistering them when necessary, recording and consolidating grading results, and managing the awarding and recognition of Leistungspunkte (course credits). It processes module examinations, validates eligibility to take exams, coordinates retakes, and handles deadlines for registration and deregistration. The office also prepares transcripts of records, certificates, and degree documents, and maintains the official documentation required for a student’s academic progress.

In addition, the Prüfungsamt administers procedures related to examination appeals, degree conferrals, and recognition of prior learning or credits transferred from other programs or institutions. It collaborates with faculties, the Prüfungsausschuss (examination board), and registrar or student service offices to implement examination regulations and publish schedules. The office often operates an online portal for registrations, results viewing, and document requests.

Organizational structures vary: some universities house a centralized Prüfungsamt serving all faculties, while others distribute responsibilities to individual faculties. Regardless of structure, the office provides guidance on deadlines and required documents, handles communications about grade appeals, and ensures proper processing and archiving of examination-related data in accordance with legal and institutional requirements.