UK Academic Calendar

Comenius University in Bratislava, the oldest and largest university in Slovakia, follows a traditional European academic calendar structured into two main semesters: the winter semester and the summer semester. The winter semester typically begins in late September and runs through mid-February, including a holiday break in December and January. The summer semester generally starts in mid-February and concludes in late June, with a focus on coursework and examinations. This structure allows for a significant summer break from July to August, providing students with opportunities for internships, research, or personal development. Unique to Comenius University is its alignment with national holidays and cultural events, often reflected in short breaks or adjusted schedules.

• Winter Semester Start: September 22, 2025 (approximate, based on typical academic cycles; official dates pending release). Classes begin for most faculties.
• Winter Holidays: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 (approximate). Includes Christmas and New Year celebrations with campus closure.
• Winter Semester Exams: January 12 – February 13, 2026 (approximate). Dedicated period for assessments and project submissions.
• Summer Semester Start: February 16, 2026 (approximate). Second semester coursework begins.
• Summer Semester Exams: May 25 – June 26, 2026 (approximate). Final exams and graduation ceremonies for many programs.
• Summer Break: July 1 – August 31, 2026. Extended break for students and faculty.

• Application Opening: November 1, 2024 (approximate). Start of undergraduate admissions for the 2025–2026 cycle (Class of 2030).
• Early Application Deadline: February 28, 2025 (approximate). Recommended for international students needing visa processing time.
• Regular Application Deadline: April 30, 2025 (approximate). Final date for most undergraduate programs; late submissions may not be considered.
• Entrance Exams: May – June 2025 (approximate). Required for certain faculties; dates vary by program.
• Admission Decisions: June 30 – July 15, 2025 (approximate). Notification period for accepted students, with enrollment instructions.
• Financial Aid Deadline: July 31, 2025 (approximate). Submission of scholarship or grant applications for eligible students.

The academic calendar at Comenius University aligns closely with other European institutions, particularly in Central Europe, where the two-semester system is standard. Breaks often coincide with national holidays such as Easter and Slovak state holidays, offering students predictable downtime. For international students, the extended summer break provides flexibility for travel or additional academic pursuits, while the early application deadlines accommodate visa processing needs. However, prospective students should note that exact dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on historical patterns, as official schedules have not yet been published. Adjustments may occur due to unforeseen circumstances or university policy changes, so regular monitoring of updates is advised.