Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), located in Erlangen and Nuremberg, Germany, follows a traditional European academic calendar divided into two main semesters: the Winter Semester and the Summer Semester. The Winter Semester typically begins in early October and runs through mid-February, including a break for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The Summer Semester usually starts in mid-April and concludes in late July, with a longer break over the summer months. This structure aligns with many German universities, allowing for a balance between intensive study periods and extended breaks for research or internships. FAU also incorporates lecture-free periods during which exams are often scheduled, providing students with focused preparation time.
The academic calendar at FAU aligns closely with national norms in Germany, adhering to the semester structure common across the country and incorporating public holidays such as Christmas and Easter into its breaks. This alignment facilitates coordination with other German institutions for collaborative programs or student exchanges. For international students, FAU’s clear semester breaks and early application deadlines offer flexibility for visa processing and travel planning. Additionally, the university’s scheduling considers research-intensive periods, particularly during the summer break, allowing students and faculty to engage in projects or internships. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, prospective students are encouraged to verify exact deadlines and events closer to the time of application.
