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 concisely explains the costs of dropping out of IU, how to cancel, what happens with BAföG, and special considerations for dual study programs. Similar to regular study withdrawals, IU also has clear regulations.
Key points at a glance
- Notice period: 4 weeks to the end of the month
- Fees already paid for future months will be refunded
- Written cancellation by email or post
- Dual study program: Also cancel employment contract with practical partner
- Inform the BAföG office immediately about withdrawal
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 10 | Notice period until March 31 | Costs: February (€369) + March (€369) = €738 | After that, no further costs.
Money back when dropping out of IU?
Yes, you 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 contract termination
- Already used months: No refund for months you have studied
- Examination fees: Unused examination registrations will be refunded
- Matriculation fee: Not refunded (one-time administration fee)
The refund will be made to the account from which the payments originated, usually within 4-6 weeks after the official contract end date.
How do I cancel my IU studies?
The cancellation must be made 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: Observe the written form! Cancellation by phone is not possible.
What must be included in the cancellation?
- Full name and matriculation number
- Clear statement of cancellation ("I hereby cancel...")
- Desired contract end date (or "at the earliest possible date")
- Date and signature (for email, a typed name is sufficient)
IU will confirm your cancellation in writing and specify the exact contract end date. You will receive a certificate of de-registration after the official end of your studies.
Cancelling IU dual study program - special features
For dual IU study programs, there are important differences from 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 terminate early. Check your employment contract for repayment clauses - these can amount to €5,000-€15,000!
Notice periods for dual study programs
- IU study contract: 4 weeks to the end of the month (as with distance learning)
- Employment contract: Usually 3-6 months (individually depending on the contract)
- Important: Coordinate both cancellations - otherwise you pay double!
You can find more about your options after dropping out of 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 with the discontinuation of studies. You must inform the BAföG office immediately in writing, otherwise, repayments may be demanded.
You do not have to repay BAföG already received - it remains an interest-free loan as planned. But: Further payments will be stopped from the date of withdrawal. Failure to inform the office is a punishable offense.
You can find more about BAföG upon 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 you have already passed credited
- BAföG entitlement: When changing courses, usually only up to the 3rd semester
- Application deadlines: For state universities usually July 15 (winter semester) and January 15 (summer semester)
- Note NC: IU has no NC, state universities often do
Many switch from IU to state on-campus universities because distance learning does not suit them. This is a completely legitimate decision.
Conclusion: Dropping out of IU studies
- Notice period 4 weeks to the end of the month
- Fees already paid for future months will be refunded
- Written cancellation by email or post required
- Dual study program: Also cancel employment contract, check repayment clauses!
- Inform the BAföG office immediately
- Further study at another university possible with credit transfer
An IU study withdrawal is financially and administratively straightforward. IU has fair cancellation policies, and you get fees already paid back. The important thing is to adhere to the notice period and, for dual study programs, also consider the employment contract.
"Dropping out of studies is not a failure, but often the first step in the right direction."
