Gnesins Academic Calendar

The Gnesins Russian Academy of Music, located in Moscow, Russia, follows a traditional academic calendar structured around two main semesters: the fall semester and the spring semester. The fall semester typically begins in early September and runs through late December, while the spring semester starts in early February and concludes in late June. This structure aligns with many European and Russian higher education institutions, incorporating extended breaks for national holidays and a significant summer recess from July to August. A distinctive feature of the academy’s calendar is its emphasis on performance schedules, with additional breaks or intensive periods often scheduled around major concerts, recitals, and examinations specific to music education.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 – Classes begin for all students, often preceded by an orientation week.
• Winter Break: December 30, 2025 – January 10, 2026 – Includes New Year and Orthodox Christmas holidays.
• Spring Semester Start: February 9, 2026 – Resumption of classes after the winter break.
• Spring Break: Early April 2026 (exact dates TBD) – A short break often aligned with regional holidays.
• Final Examinations: Late May to mid-June 2026 – Performance-based assessments and written exams for most programs.
• Graduation/Commencement: Late June 2026 – Ceremonies and recitals for graduating students.

• Application Opening: November 1, 2024 – Start of applications for the 2025–2026 academic year (Class of 2030).
• Entrance Examinations Deadline: Mid-June 2025 – Submission of required performance recordings or in-person auditions (dates may vary by program).
• Regular Decision Deadline: July 1, 2025 – Final date for most undergraduate program applications, including international applicants.
• Admission Notification: Late July to early August 2025 – Decisions released, with specific timelines for international students.
• Enrollment Confirmation: August 15, 2025 – Deadline to accept offers and submit enrollment documents.

The academic calendar at Gnesins Russian Academy of Music generally aligns with national norms in Russia, particularly in its observance of major holidays like New Year and Orthodox Christmas, which shape the winter break. For international students, the calendar offers some flexibility, with extended summer breaks allowing for travel or additional training. However, the intensive nature of music education, including performance commitments, may require careful planning around key dates. Specific calendar details for 2025–2026 are subject to confirmation, as exact schedules are typically published closer to the academic year by the institution.