FH Kiel Academic Calendar

Fachhochschule Kiel, located in Kiel, Germany, follows a typical European university academic calendar structured around two main semesters: the winter semester and the summer semester. The winter semester generally begins in early October and runs through mid-February, including a holiday break in late December to early January. The summer semester typically starts in mid-March and concludes in late July, with a shorter break in between semesters. This structure aligns with many German universities of applied sciences, emphasizing practical training and project-based learning, often incorporating periods for internships or industry placements within the academic year.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Classes begin for most programs, with an orientation week for new students typically held in late September.
• Winter Holiday Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – Campus closure for Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Winter Semester Exams: Late January to mid-February 2026 – Specific dates vary by department.
• Summer Semester Start: March 15, 2026 – Lectures resume after the semester break.
• Summer Semester Exams: Late June to mid-July 2026 – Followed by a break before the next academic year.

• Application Period Start for Winter Semester: May 1, 2025 – Applications open for most undergraduate programs, with early submission encouraged for international students.
• Application Deadline for Winter Semester: July 15, 2025 – Final date for most programs; some restricted programs may have earlier deadlines.
• Admission Notification: Mid-August 2025 – Applicants are typically informed of decisions, allowing time for visa processing for international students.
• Application Deadline for Summer Semester: January 15, 2026 – For programs starting in March, with similar considerations for international applicants.

The academic calendar at Fachhochschule Kiel aligns closely with regional and national norms in Germany, where the dual-semester system is standard across higher education institutions. Breaks often coincide with major public holidays like Christmas and Easter, providing students with predictable downtime. For international students, the calendar offers sufficient lead time between admission notifications and semester starts to arrange travel and visas. Additionally, the university’s focus on applied sciences means scheduling may include mandatory internships or practical phases, which could extend beyond typical semester dates for some programs. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on standard German university cycles, students are encouraged to verify exact timelines through official university communications.