ENS Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at École Normale Supérieure de Paris (ENS Paris), a prestigious institution in France, typically follows a semester-based structure common to many European universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the fall semester, which generally begins in early September and runs through late December or early January, and the spring semester, spanning from mid-January to late May or early June. This structure includes breaks for major holidays such as Christmas and Easter, as well as a summer recess from June to August. A distinguishing feature of ENS Paris is its emphasis on intensive research and interdisciplinary studies, which may influence scheduling with additional workshops or modular sessions integrated into the semesters.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 (approximate, pending official confirmation). Classes typically commence after an orientation period for new students.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 5, 2026 (approximate). This includes national holidays and a rest period before exams.
• Spring Semester Start: January 13, 2026 (approximate). Often preceded by final exams for the fall term.
• Easter Break: April 10 – April 20, 2026 (approximate). Dates may vary based on the national holiday calendar.
• End of Academic Year: May 29, 2026 (approximate). Includes final exams and commencement events for graduating students.

• Application Opening: November 1, 2024 (approximate). The admissions portal typically opens for the following academic year.
• Application Deadline for International Students: December 15, 2024 (approximate). Early submission is encouraged due to competitive selection processes.
• Regular Admission Deadline: January 15, 2025 (approximate). Final date for most undergraduate applications via the ENS selection process or concours.
• Entrance Examinations: May – June 2025 (approximate). Specific dates depend on the chosen track (literary or scientific).
• Admission Decisions: July 1, 2025 (approximate). Notifications are typically sent out in early summer, with enrollment confirmation deadlines shortly after.

The academic calendar at ENS Paris aligns closely with the French national education system, incorporating public holidays and extended breaks that reflect cultural norms, such as the long summer recess. This structure offers some flexibility for international students, who may need to adjust to the rigorous pace of the semesters and the competitive admissions timeline. Additionally, the calendar accommodates the institution’s focus on research and intellectual development, often scheduling intensive periods for exams and projects. As specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are not yet publicly available, the above timelines are estimates based on typical French university schedules and past ENS Paris patterns. Students are advised to consult official university communications for confirmed dates.