Hertie Academic Calendar

The Hertie School of Governance, located in Berlin, Germany, operates on a semester-based academic calendar typical of many European universities. The academic year is generally divided into two main semesters: the Fall Semester, which usually begins in late August or early September and runs through December, and the Spring Semester, spanning from January or February to June or July. This structure allows for a significant winter break around the holiday season and a summer break for research, internships, or personal development. A distinctive feature of Hertie’s calendar is its focus on intensive, policy-oriented programs, often incorporating short modular courses or workshops alongside traditional semester-long classes, catering to its graduate and professional student body.

• Fall Semester Start: Late August to early September 2025 (exact dates to be confirmed). Classes typically commence after an orientation week for new students.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026. This period includes Christmas and New Year holidays, with no classes or exams scheduled.
• Spring Semester Start: Late January to early February 2026. Often preceded by a brief inter-semester break or exam period.
• Summer Break: Late June to late August 2026. This extended break allows for internships or research projects, aligning with the school’s practical focus.
• Commencement Ceremony: Typically in June 2026. Specific dates vary based on program completion timelines.

• Early Application Deadline: Estimated for November 1, 2025. Early applicants often receive priority consideration for scholarships and financial aid.
• Regular Application Deadline: Estimated for February 1, 2026. This is the standard deadline for most programs, with decisions typically notified by April.
• Final Application Deadline (if applicable): Estimated for May 1, 2026. This round may be limited to specific programs or for international students finalizing visa processes.
• Decision Notification: Rolling basis, with most notifications sent between March and June 2026, depending on application round.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: Estimated for June 15, 2026. Accepted students must confirm their spot and submit deposits by this date.

The academic calendar at Hertie School of Governance aligns closely with German and broader European university norms, particularly in its semester structure and observance of major public holidays like Christmas and Easter. The extended summer break offers flexibility for international students to return home or engage in professional opportunities across Europe. Additionally, the school’s scheduling often accommodates the needs of working professionals and policy practitioners through intensive modules, reflecting its unique position as a hub for public policy education. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are not yet publicly available, the above timelines are based on typical patterns for the region and institution, ensuring prospective students can plan accordingly.