BUW Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Bergische University Wuppertal, located in Wuppertal, Germany, follows the traditional European semester system, which is common among German universities. The year is divided into two main semesters: the Winter Semester, typically running from early October to late March, and the Summer Semester, spanning from mid-April to mid-September. This structure includes lecture periods, examination phases, and semester breaks, with the winter break aligning with Christmas and New Year holidays, and a longer summer break allowing for internships or research. A notable feature is the flexibility within the semester breaks, often used by students for self-study or practical training, reflecting the university’s emphasis on combining academic and professional development.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Official start of lectures, with orientation events for new students in late September.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – University closure for holiday celebrations.
• Winter Semester Exams: February 1 – February 28, 2026 – Examination period following the lecture phase.
• Summer Semester Start: April 14, 2026 – Lectures begin, often preceded by a short Easter break.
• Summer Semester Exams: July 15 – August 15, 2026 – Exams and project submissions, followed by the summer break.

• Application Period for Winter Semester: May 1 – July 15, 2025 – Deadline for most undergraduate programs, with earlier submission recommended for international students due to visa processing.
• Application Period for Summer Semester: November 1 – January 15, 2026 – Secondary intake for select programs; limited slots available.
• Admission Notification: August 2025 (Winter) / February 2026 (Summer) – Decisions typically released 4–6 weeks after application deadlines.
• Enrollment Deadline: September 15, 2025 (Winter) / March 15, 2026 (Summer) – Final date to confirm enrollment and pay fees.

The academic calendar at Bergische University Wuppertal aligns closely with national norms in Germany, where the semester system is standardized to facilitate student mobility across institutions. The extended breaks, particularly in summer, offer significant flexibility for international students to return home or engage in internships, while the alignment with public holidays like Christmas ensures cultural integration. However, prospective students should note that exact dates for academic and admissions events may vary slightly each year, and checking the university’s official announcements is recommended for the most current information.