HHU Academic Calendar

Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf (HHU), located in Düsseldorf, Germany, follows 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 late March, and the Summer Semester, spanning from mid-April to late July. Each semester includes lecture periods, examination phases, and semester breaks, with the winter break aligning with Christmas and New Year holidays, and a longer summer break allowing for internships or research. HHU’s calendar also accommodates public holidays specific to North Rhine-Westphalia, ensuring alignment with regional observances.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Lectures typically begin in the first or second week of October.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – Includes Christmas and New Year holidays, with no lectures or exams.
• Winter Semester Exams: February 1 – February 28, 2026 – Examination period following the lecture phase.
• Summer Semester Start: April 1, 2026 – Lectures commence around mid-April after the spring break.
• Summer Break: Late July – Late September 2026 – Extended break for research, internships, or personal projects.
• Summer Semester Exams: July 1 – July 31, 2026 – Exams typically conclude by the end of July.

• Application Period Start for Winter Semester: May 1, 2025 – Applications for most undergraduate programs open, with specific deadlines varying by program.
• Application Deadline for Restricted Programs: July 15, 2025 – Deadline for programs with limited spots (Numerus Clausus), especially for EU and international students.
• Application Deadline for Non-Restricted Programs: September 30, 2025 – Final deadline for programs without admission restrictions.
• Admission Notification: August – September 2025 – Applicants are typically informed of decisions within this period.
• Enrollment Deadline: Late September 2025 – Accepted students must complete enrollment formalities before the semester starts.

The academic calendar at Heinrich Heine University Düsseldorf aligns closely with the standard German university schedule, reflecting national norms such as extended breaks during Christmas and summer months. This structure offers flexibility for international students, providing ample time during breaks for travel or additional academic pursuits. Additionally, the university’s consideration of regional holidays ensures that students can participate in local cultural events. However, prospective students should note that exact dates for academic and admissions events may vary slightly each year, and checking the university’s official announcements for the most current information is recommended.