FH Südwestfalen Academic Calendar

Fachhochschule Südwestfalen, a prominent university of applied sciences in Germany, follows a structured academic calendar typical of many German institutions. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the Winter Semester, which generally runs from early October to mid-February, and the Summer Semester, spanning from mid-March to late July. This biannual structure allows for focused study periods, with breaks aligned to major holidays such as Christmas and Easter. Additionally, the university incorporates practical training and project-based learning into its calendar, reflecting its applied sciences focus, which may include shorter modular terms or intensive workshops during semester breaks.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Classes begin for new and returning students.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – University closure for the holiday season.
• Winter Semester Exams: Late January to mid-February 2026 – Specific dates vary by program.
• Summer Semester Start: March 15, 2026 – Start of lectures and coursework.
• Easter Break: April 3 – April 10, 2026 – Break aligned with national holidays.
• Summer Semester Exams: Late June to mid-July 2026 – End-of-term assessments.

• Application Period Start for Winter Semester: May 1, 2025 – Applications open for undergraduate programs (Class of 2030).
• Application Deadline for Winter Semester: July 15, 2025 – Final date for most programs; international students are advised to apply earlier due to visa processing.
• Admission Notification: Late August to early September 2025 – Decisions typically released during this period.
• Application Deadline for Summer Semester: January 15, 2026 – For programs with summer intake; limited availability.

The academic calendar at Fachhochschule Südwestfalen aligns closely with regional and national norms in Germany, where the two-semester system is standard, and breaks correspond to public holidays like Christmas and Easter. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with ample time during semester breaks for internships or research projects, which are integral to the university’s applied focus. International students benefit from clear application timelines, though they should account for additional time for visa applications and language proficiency requirements. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical German university schedules, students are encouraged to verify exact deadlines and events through official university communications as they become available.