HSBI Academic Calendar

Hochschule Bielefeld, located in Germany, follows a traditional European academic calendar structured around 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 holiday break in late December to early January. The Summer Semester generally starts in mid-March or early April and concludes in late July, with a shorter break in between semesters. This structure aligns with many German universities and allows for focused study periods, examination phases at the end of each semester, and opportunities for internships or research during breaks. Specific dates may vary slightly year to year based on public holidays and institutional policies.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 (lectures typically begin in the first week of October).
• Winter Holiday Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 (aligned with Christmas and New Year holidays).
• Winter Semester End/Exams: February 10 – February 28, 2026 (exam period following lecture conclusion).
• Summer Semester Start: April 1, 2026 (lectures begin in early April).
• Summer Semester End/Exams: July 15 – July 31, 2026 (includes final exams and project submissions).

• Application Period Start for Winter Semester: May 1, 2025 (early opening for international and domestic applicants).
• Early Application Deadline: June 15, 2025 (recommended for international students requiring visa processing).
• Regular Application Deadline: July 15, 2025 (final deadline for most undergraduate programs for Winter Semester).
• Admission Notification: August 1 – August 15, 2025 (decisions typically released during this period).
• Enrollment Deadline: September 15, 2025 (final date to confirm enrollment and submit required documents).

The academic calendar at Hochschule Bielefeld adheres to the standard German higher education framework, with semesters closely aligned to national and regional public holidays such as Christmas and Easter, ensuring students have adequate breaks. This structure offers flexibility for international students, as the extended application periods and semester breaks accommodate visa processing and travel needs. Additionally, the university’s scheduling considers the balance between academic rigor and practical training, a hallmark of applied sciences institutions in Germany. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on typical cycles, prospective students are encouraged to check the university’s official announcements for confirmed schedules and any program-specific variations.