ESC Lyon Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Ecole Supérieure de Commerce de Lyon (ESCL), located in Lyon, France, typically follows a semester-based structure common to many European business schools. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: Fall and Spring, with the Fall semester generally starting in early September and concluding in mid-December, and the Spring semester running from early January to late May. A notable feature of ESCL’s calendar is the inclusion of intensive modular courses and internship periods, often scheduled during the summer months or between semesters, allowing students to gain practical experience alongside their studies. Additionally, the university incorporates extended breaks around major French holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, to accommodate cultural and family traditions.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 – Classes begin for all programs, with an orientation week for new students.
• Mid-Term Break: October 25–November 2, 2025 – A short break aligning with the French All Saints’ Day holiday.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025–January 4, 2026 – Extended holiday period covering Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
• Spring Semester Start: January 5, 2026 – Classes resume with potential intensive modules.
• Final Exams: May 18–May 29, 2026 – End-of-year assessments for most programs.
• Commencement Ceremony: Early June 2026 – Graduation event for completing students (exact date to be confirmed).

• Early Action Deadline: November 15, 2024 – For early applicants to the Class of 2030, with decisions typically notified by mid-December 2024.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 15, 2025 – Standard application deadline, with notifications expected by late March 2025.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: February 1, 2025 – Submission deadline for scholarship and aid requests, applicable to both domestic and international students.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: May 1, 2025 – Accepted students must confirm their spot and submit deposits by this date.
• International Student Visa Application Support: Ongoing through March–June 2025 – ESCL provides guidance for visa processes post-acceptance.

The academic calendar at Ecole Supérieure de Commerce de Lyon aligns closely with national norms in France, particularly in its observance of public holidays and extended breaks during Christmas and Easter. This structure offers flexibility for international students, as the university provides support for visa applications and integration during key transition periods. Additionally, the inclusion of internship windows and modular courses reflects ESCL’s emphasis on blending academic rigor with professional development, a unique consideration that sets it apart from more traditional university schedules. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical French university patterns, prospective students are encouraged to verify exact timelines through official university communications.