COU Academic Calendar

Central Ostrobothnia University of Applied Sciences, located in Finland, follows a structured academic calendar typically divided into two main semesters: autumn and spring. The autumn semester generally begins in late August or early September and runs through mid-December, while the spring semester starts in early January and concludes in late May or early June. This biannual structure aligns with many European universities, allowing for a significant winter break over the holiday season and a shorter summer break for internships or research. A notable feature of the university’s calendar is its emphasis on practical training periods, often integrated into the semesters, reflecting its applied sciences focus.

• Autumn Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (orientation for new students typically held the week prior).
• Autumn Break: October 13–17, 2025 (a short mid-semester break for students and staff).
• Winter Break: December 15, 2025–January 4, 2026 (includes Christmas and New Year holidays).
• Spring Semester Start: January 5, 2026 (classes resume after winter break).
• Easter Break: April 3–6, 2026 (aligned with national holidays).
• Final Exams and Assessments: May 18–29, 2026 (end-of-year evaluations and project submissions).
• Graduation Ceremony: Early June 2026 (specific date to be confirmed, typically a celebratory event for graduates).

• Joint Application Period (First Round): January 7–21, 2025 (primary application window for international and domestic students).
• Joint Application Period (Second Round): March 17–31, 2025 (additional opportunity for applicants).
• Entrance Exams: April–May 2025 (specific dates vary by program; often includes online or in-person assessments).
• Admission Results Announced: Late June 2025 (notifications sent to applicants with acceptance details).
• Deadline to Accept Offer: Early July 2025 (exact date to be confirmed; typically within two weeks of results).
• Tuition Fee and Enrollment Deadline: July 31, 2025 (for non-EU/EEA students; includes financial aid application deadlines).

The academic calendar at Central Ostrobothnia University of Applied Sciences aligns closely with Finland’s national educational framework, incorporating public holidays such as Christmas and Easter into its breaks. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with ample time during the summer for professional placements, a key component of applied sciences programs. Additionally, the admissions timeline is designed to accommodate international applicants, with early application periods and clear deadlines. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical Finnish university schedules, prospective students are encouraged to check official university communications for confirmed details as they become available.