HCU Academic Calendar

HafenCity University Hamburg (HCU), located in Hamburg, Germany, operates on a semester-based academic calendar typical of many European universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the Winter Semester, which generally begins in early October and runs through mid-February, and the Summer Semester, spanning from mid-April to mid-July. This structure includes lecture periods, examination phases, and semester breaks, with a notable winter break around the Christmas and New Year holidays. HCU’s calendar aligns with the German academic system, offering a balance between intensive study periods and extended breaks for research or internships, particularly during the summer months.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – First day of lectures, following an orientation week for new students.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – Holiday period covering Christmas and New Year’s Day.
• Winter Semester Exams: February 1 – February 15, 2026 – Examination period before the semester break.
• Summer Semester Start: April 15, 2026 – Lectures begin after the spring break.
• Summer Semester Exams: July 1 – July 15, 2026 – Final exams and project submissions.
• Summer Break: July 16 – September 30, 2026 – Extended break for internships or independent study.

• Application Period Start for Winter Semester: May 1, 2025 – Opening of applications 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 Decisions Released: August 15 – August 31, 2025 – Notifications sent to applicants.
• Enrollment Deadline: September 15, 2025 – Deadline to confirm enrollment and submit required documents.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: August 1, 2025 – Recommended date for submitting funding or scholarship applications.

The academic calendar at HafenCity University Hamburg adheres to the standard German university schedule, aligning with national holidays such as Christmas and Easter, which are reflected in the semester breaks. This structure provides predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating planning for travel or additional academic pursuits during breaks. For international applicants, the admissions timeline offers sufficient lead time for visa applications, though early submission is encouraged. HCU’s focus on urban planning and architecture may also influence scheduling, with potential for project-based learning extending into breaks, offering unique opportunities for hands-on experience.