A failed module exam (Modulprüfung, a single examined module) is frustrating, but it is rarely the end of a degree. The decisive question is how often you may retake the exam and what happens once all attempts are used up. The answer is in the examination regulation of your degree programme. This guide uses one example to show which rules are typically set out there.
Kurz beantwortet: The number of retakes for a module exam is set by your examination regulation. As an example, the University of Goettingen states on its page on the repeatability of exam achievements that two retakes are possible for each failed module exam, in a master regulation for agricultural sciences from 2006. The page gives no date for the version. Last updated: November 2026.
Key points at a glance
- The number of retakes is set by your examination regulation and is not a general value.
- In the Goettingen example, two retakes are possible for each failed module exam.
- In the example, the second retake can only be graded “not sufficient” after an oral examination.
- If no retake is possible any more, the module exam counts as finally failed.
- For elective modules, the example sets a retake within one year.
- Failed attempts at another university within the same programme can be credited.
How many attempts does a regulation provide?
The number of attempts is not a single figure valid across Germany. State higher education law sets the framework, and universities determine in their examination regulations how many attempts are provided. A look at your regulation is therefore essential before you decide on a retake.
The Goettingen example comes from a master regulation and cannot simply be transferred to a bachelor programme. It does, however, show which levers a regulation typically contains: the number of retakes, the form of the last retake, deadlines for elective modules and the crediting of attempts at other universities.
| Rule | Example from the Goettingen page | What to check in your regulation |
|---|---|---|
| Number of retakes | Two retakes per failed module exam (master regulation agricultural sciences, version 2006) | The number for your programme and version |
| Form of the last retake | “Not sufficient” only after an oral examination | Whether the last retake is oral |
| Elective modules | Retake in the next examination period, at the latest within one year | Deadline in the module handbook or regulation |
| Attempts at other universities | Failed attempts in the same programme are credited | Crediting rule when changing university |
What happens at final failure?
In the Goettingen example, a module exam is finally failed if the second retake is graded “not sufficient” and no further retake is possible. For an elective module, the example says that this can even affect the entire master examination. The effect is serious, so you should know the rules before the last attempt.
What you can do after final failure is described in the guide Finally failed: what you can do now. It covers options after the last attempt, such as objections and advice.
How do you plan a retake in time?
Many regulations set deadlines that decide whether a retake counts. The Goettingen example names, for elective modules, the next examination period and at the latest one year after the failed exam. If that deadline is missed, the attempt counts as not passed under the example. For important reasons, the examination committee can grant a reasonable extension.
- Determine the date of the failed exam and write it down.
- Look up the deadline for retaking your module in your regulation.
- Enter the latest retake date in your study progress plan.
- Apply for an extension in time if important reasons apply and the regulation provides for it.
Worked example: how many attempts remain?
Assumption: your regulation follows the Goettingen pattern with one first sit and two retakes. Then you have three attempts in total.
| Attempt | Type | Attempts left after this date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | First sit | 2 retakes |
| 2 | First retake | 1 retake |
| 3 | Second retake, oral if so regulated | 0 |
The example is a calculation aid, not a rule. Check whether your regulation counts the first sit as well. This point is easily overlooked, although it decides how many attempts remain.
What to clarify before a retake
Before you plan the next attempt, clarify three points: which version of the examination regulation applies to your year of enrolment, whether the retake is written or oral, and whether your module has its own deadline. The version matters because rules can change between regulations. Anyone calculating with an older version may plan against the wrong standard.
A short conversation with the examinations office or the study advice service is also helpful. There you can check whether the module handbook carries the same rules as the regulation and whether earlier attempts at another university were credited. Record the result in writing so that you can prove it later.
Why crediting at other universities matters
The Goettingen example provides that failed attempts in the same programme at another university in Germany or abroad are credited. Anyone changing universities should therefore clarify in advance how earlier attempts will be taken over. The crediting rule is set out in the regulation of the receiving university.
Frequently asked questions
Does the first sit count as an attempt?
In the Goettingen example, the retakes are meant in addition to the first sit. Whether your regulation counts it in the same way is something you check where the retakes are regulated. The distinction matters because it changes the number of remaining attempts.
Can I retake a passed exam to improve my grade?
That is a different question from a retake after failing. Whether an improvement is possible and how many attempts exist for it is set separately in the regulation. The guide grade improvement in the bachelor (in German) explains this in more detail.
Do these rules also apply to the state examination?
No, the state examination (Staatsexamen) follows its own rules. Retakes there are governed by different provisions. If you are preparing for it, read the guide retaking the state examination.
What if I cannot attend because of illness?
Illness triggers separate procedures with evidence. A withdrawal or cancellation usually has to be made in time and supported by proof. The guide withdrawing from an exam due to illness describes the details.
Do I have to register for a retake myself?
Whether and how you must register for a retake is set out in your regulation and by the examinations office. Ask whether registration is automatic or whether you must do it yourself, so that no date is lost.
What you should do now
- Check in your examination regulation how many retakes are provided for your module.
- Note all previous attempts and the attempts still available.
- Check the deadline for elective modules and add it to your plan.
- Before the last attempt, clarify the consequences of failing with the study advice service.
Related reading
- Understanding your examination regulation: an overview for students
- Finally failed: what you can do now
- Free attempt in the bachelor
- Grade improvement in the bachelor (in German)
- Retaking the state examination
Last updated: November 2026. This guide is general information, not individual advice.
