Binding study advice (bsa) is the minimum number of credits you must earn in your first year in order to continue your studies at your institution. Every institution is obliged to give you a positive or negative binding study advice at the end of your first year. Study programmes determine for themselves whether this advice is binding or not. The study programme may also determine for itself the minimum number of credits you must obtain in order to receive positive advice. The exact number of credits is described in the Education and Examination Regulations (OER) of your study programme. The OER is usually sent to you and can often be found online.
A negative binding study advice, what now?
A negative BSA may mean that you have to stop your programme. It is important that you discuss with the examination board whether you are eligible for an exception. For example, institutions must ensure that you have received sufficient guidance to pass the BSA. Special personal circumstances must also be taken into account. You can read about what does and does not fall under these special circumstances in the OER for your programme. These circumstances may include long-term illness, providing informal care and difficulties due to a disability. You have the right to present your case to the Examination Board.
I disagree with my study advice!
Do you disagree with a negative BSA decision and does the Examination Board disagree with you? You can appeal to the Examination Appeals Board (CBE) of your own institution. If you disagree with the CBE’s decision, you can appeal to the Higher Education Appeals Board (CBHO). If you would like to know more about these procedures, the Student Helpline can help you.
There are a number of conditions that a BSA must meet in order to be valid:
- A negative BSA can only be issued if the propaedeutic examination has not been passed.
- A warning must be issued if the student is unlikely to pass the BSA, so that the student can improve their results within a reasonable period of time.
- The rules regarding the BSA must be laid down in the OER.
- The student must be heard if they so wish.
- Personal circumstances must be taken into account.
- A BSA may only be issued once.
If one of these conditions is not met, the student can lodge an administrative appeal with the Examinations Appeals Board within six weeks. This is accessible and free of charge.
What should you pay attention to?
For most programmes, you will not receive a BSA if you deregister from your programme before 1 February. Check your institution’s OER for their conditions.
If you receive a negative BSA, you will often not be allowed to enrol in the programme for a number of years. The exact duration is determined by the programme. For some programmes, this also applies to other similar programmes.
Make sure you report any special circumstances to your institution as soon as possible. You can do this, for example, through your study advisor, mentor or dean.
Student Helpline
Do you have legal questions about your Binding Study Advice or are you unable to resolve the issue with your educational institution?