About 5,900 First-year Students at KIT

Nearly 5,900 new students are beginning their studies in the 2026/27 winter semester at the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT). KIT traditionally greets its first-year students at a welcome event, which will be held in the Audimax lecture hall on KIT’s Campus South (Straße am Forum 3, building 30.95) at 18:00 hrs on Monday, October 26, 2026. All told, more than 23,000 students are now enrolled at KIT.

“Teaching is one of KIT’s core missions. By contributing their ideas and perspectives, our 23,000 students help to shape teaching at KIT,” said Professor Jan S. Hesthaven, President of KIT. “Even during their studies, they can take part in outstanding research projects, develop their own ideas, and work on solutions for current challenges. For all these activities, KIT provides an inspiring environment in which science, teaching, and innovation are closely linked. I’m delighted that we’re once again welcoming more than 5,000 first-year students this year. As they begin their courses, I wish them the curiosity, spirit, and drive to make their studies a success.”

45 Bachelor's and 61 Master's Degree Programs at KIT

The number of first-semester students at KIT, including those beginning master’s degree programs, will be around 5,900 in the 2026/27 winter semester. The total number of students will be over 23,000 (as of October 19, 2026). Registration and wait-list procedures are still in progress; the reporting date for student statistics is November 30, 2026.

Students at KIT can choose from among 45 bachelor’s and 61 master’s degree programs. Four new degree programs enhance KIT’s international and interdisciplinary profile.

Student Involvement at KIT

One of the ways to ease into studies is the orientation phases (O-phases) organized by student representatives of the departments before the beginning of the semester. Campus life at KIT is enriched by more than 90 student associations for culture, sports, politics, and much more. At the welcome event, KIT honors many students for their outstanding efforts in the student associations, the departmental student representations, and the General Students’ Committee.

Tips for New Students on YouTube: “How to Ersti”

In a series of videos entitled “How to Ersti,” KIT students answer important questions for beginning students, such as what they can use their student ID for or what is available in the Study Portal. They also provide suggestions and information about studying, leisure activities at KIT, life in Karlsruhe, and working during one’s studies.

“How to Ersti” YouTube playlist

“KIT – That's why” Shows Why Studying at KIT Is Special

What makes studying at KIT special is the subject of a five-part video series called “KIT – That's why.” It focuses on the topics of energy, mobility, the KIT campus, digitalization, and sustainability and the climate.

“KIT – That's why” YouTube playlist

Information Stands in the Audimax Lobby

During the welcome event on October 26, 2026, various KIT institutions, student associations, and partners will provide information and answer questions at stands in the Audimax lobby starting at 18:30 hrs. A selection of products from the KIT Shop will also be available, including new sweatshirts, T-shirts, socks, and sustainably produced and practical study aids.

KIT Shop

KIT Backpack for First-semester Students

First-year students can pre-order the KIT backpack at a special price online via a link in their invitation emails for the welcome event and buy it in the Audimax lobby on Campus South starting at 10:00 hrs on October 26, 2026.

Online Dossier with Information for New Students

To keep new students from becoming overwhelmed by questions such as how to organize their studies, where to get counseling, how to get involved in campus life, or what sports and cultural activities are available, a dossier entitled “Starting Your Studies at KIT” provides a clear and compact summary of the most important information.

Online dossier

KIT on Social Media

Those interested in finding out more about KIT online can find regular posts about campus life and events, tips for studying, and exciting research projects. KIT is also present on other social media platforms.

KIT on Instagram
KIT on TikTok
List of all KIT social media channels (in German)

Program for KIT’s 2026 Welcome Event

Monday, October 26, 2026, 18:00 hrs

Audimax, building 30.95, Straße am Forum 3, KIT Campus South

Moderator: Nicklas Nusser, 3rd-semester master’s student in mechanical engineering