Dropping out of IU studies – a decision many distance learning students make. The most common question: What costs will I incur? The good news: IU has fair cancellation policies, and fees already paid for future months will be refunded.
This article compactly explains the costs of dropping out of IU, how to cancel, what happens with BAföG, and specific considerations for dual studies. Similar to regular study withdrawals, IU also has clear regulations.
Key Takeaways
- Cancellation period: 4 weeks to the end of the month
- Fees already paid for future months will be refunded
- Written cancellation via email or post
- Dual studies: Also cancel employment contract with practical partner
- Inform the BAföG office immediately about dropping out
Dropping out of IU studies - what are the costs?
The costs of dropping out of IU depend on your payment model. IU offers various payment options:
Monthly fee: 369€ | Cancellation on February 10th | Cancellation period until March 31st | Costs: February (369€) + March (369€) = 738€ | No further costs thereafter.
Money back when dropping out of IU?
Yes, you will get money back if you paid in advance. IU proportionally refunds tuition fees already paid for future months.
What will be refunded?
- Future months: Full refund for all months after the contract ends
- Months already used: No refund for months you have studied
- Exam fees: Unused exam registrations will be refunded
- Matriculation fee: Not refunded (one-time administration fee)
The refund will be transferred to the account from which payments were made, usually within 4-6 weeks after the official contract end.
How do I cancel my IU studies?
Cancellation must be done in writing. There are two ways:
1) Email to: studierendensekretariat@iu.org
2) By post to: IU Internationale Hochschule, Studierendensekretariat, Juri-Gagarin-Ring 152, 99084 Erfurt
Important: Adhere to written form! Cancellation by phone is not possible.
What must be included in the cancellation?
- Full name and matriculation number
- Clear declaration of cancellation ("I hereby cancel...")
- Desired contract end (or "at the earliest possible date")
- Date and signature (typed name is sufficient for email)
IU will confirm your cancellation in writing and state the exact contract end date. A certificate of exmatriculation will be issued after the official end of your studies.
Dropping out of IU dual studies - special features
There are important differences between dual IU studies and distance learning:
Cancel two contracts
You have two separate contracts: a study contract with IU and an employment contract with your practical partner (company). Both must be cancelled – but they are often contractually linked.
Many practical partners require students to repay tuition fees if they cancel prematurely. Check your employment contract for repayment clauses – these can amount to 5,000-15,000€!
Notice periods for dual studies
- IU study contract: 4 weeks to the end of the month (as with distance learning)
- Employment contract: Usually 3-6 months (individual depending on the contract)
- Important: Coordinate both cancellations – otherwise, you'll pay double!
You can find more about your options after dropping out of your studies in our detailed guide.
IU studies at risk?
Before you drop out - there are discreet ways to master even difficult exams
Learn moreWhat happens to BAföG after dropping out of IU?
BAföG ends when you drop out of your studies. You must immediately inform the BAföG office in writing, otherwise, you risk repayment demands.
You do not have to repay BAföG already received – it remains an interest-free loan as planned. However: Further payments will be stopped from the date of dropping out. Failure to inform the office is a criminal offense.
You can find more about BAföG after dropping out of studies in our detailed article.
Continue studying elsewhere after dropping out of IU?
Yes, you can continue studying at another university after dropping out of IU. Important points:
- Credit transfer: You can often have modules already passed credited
- BAföG eligibility: When changing courses, usually only up to the 3rd semester
- Application deadlines: For state universities, usually July 15th (winter semester) and January 15th (summer semester)
- NC considerations: IU is NC-free, state universities often are not
Many switch from IU to state-run universities because distance learning does not suit them. This is a perfectly legitimate decision.
Conclusion: Dropping out of IU studies
- Cancellation period 4 weeks to the end of the month
- Fees already paid for future months will be refunded
- Written cancellation required via email or post
- Dual studies: Also cancel employment contract, check repayment clauses!
- Inform the BAföG office immediately
- Continuing studies at another university is possible with credit transfer
Dropping out of IU studies is financially and administratively straightforward. IU has fair cancellation policies, and you will get back fees already paid. The important thing is to adhere to the cancellation period and, in the case of dual studies, also remember the employment contract.
"Dropping out of studies is not a failure, but often the first step in the right direction."
