EGS Academic Calendar

The European Graduate School (EGS), specializing in Media & Communications, follows a unique academic calendar tailored to its intensive, modular programs often designed for working professionals and international students. Unlike traditional semester or trimester systems, EGS operates on a session-based structure with short, intensive residencies held primarily in Saas-Fee, Switzerland, and Valletta, Malta. These sessions typically occur during summer and winter periods, with specific dates varying annually based on faculty availability and program requirements. The academic year generally spans from late spring to early winter, incorporating extended breaks between sessions to accommodate independent research and project work. This modular approach allows for flexibility, catering to students balancing professional commitments alongside their studies.

• Summer Session Start: June 15–July 15, 2025 (Approximate dates for the first intensive residency, often including workshops and seminars.)
• Independent Study Period: July 16–October 31, 2025 (Dedicated to research and project development with remote faculty guidance.)
• Winter Session Start: November 1–December 15, 2025 (Second intensive residency, typically concluding with presentations or assessments.)
• Winter Break: December 16, 2025–January 15, 2026 (Extended break aligning with regional holidays like Christmas and New Year.)
• Program Completion/Commencement: Early December 2025 (Specific dates TBD, often tied to the end of the winter session for graduating students.)

• Application Opening: September 1, 2024 (Applications for the 2025–2026 cycle typically open for prospective students.)
• Priority Deadline: January 15, 2025 (Early submission encouraged for scholarship consideration and international visa processing.)
• Regular Decision Deadline: March 31, 2025 (Final deadline for most programs, with decisions notified by late April.)
• Enrollment Confirmation: May 15, 2025 (Deadline to accept offers and submit deposits, with additional requirements for international students.)
• Financial Aid Application: February 28, 2025 (Recommended deadline to apply for institutional or external funding support.)

The academic calendar at the European Graduate School stands out due to its non-traditional, residency-based format, which diverges from the standard European university semesters. This structure aligns with the needs of its diverse, often international student body, offering flexibility to accommodate travel and professional schedules. The intensive sessions are strategically placed to avoid major regional holidays, ensuring maximum participation, while the extended independent study periods support deep research, a core component of EGS programs. For prospective students, the admissions timeline is designed to provide ample preparation time, particularly for international applicants navigating visa processes. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, EGS’s unique scheduling continues to prioritize accessibility and academic rigor.