HSO Academic Calendar

Hochschule Offenburg, 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 break for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The Summer Semester generally starts in mid-March and concludes in late July, with a shorter break in between semesters. This structure aligns with many German universities, allowing for a balance between intensive study periods and seasonal holidays. Notably, Hochschule Offenburg emphasizes practical, project-based learning, which may influence scheduling with integrated internship or lab periods during semesters.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Classes begin for all programs, with an orientation week for new students typically held in late September.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – University closure for holiday celebrations.
• Winter Semester Exams: Late January to mid-February 2026 – Specific dates depend on individual programs.
• Summer Semester Start: March 15, 2026 – Classes resume after the inter-semester break.
• Summer Semester Exams: Late June to mid-July 2026 – Followed by a summer break through September.

• Application Deadline for Winter Semester: May 31, 2025 – For most undergraduate programs, with earlier deadlines for international students requiring visa processing.
• Application Deadline for Summer Semester: November 30, 2025 – Primarily for select programs or late admissions.
• Admission Notification: Mid-July 2025 for Winter Semester; mid-January 2026 for Summer Semester – Applicants are informed of decisions via email or portal.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: August 15, 2025 for Winter; February 15, 2026 for Summer – Accepted students must confirm their spot and submit final documents.

The academic calendar at Hochschule Offenburg aligns closely with national norms in Germany, where the dual-semester system is standard, and breaks coincide with major public holidays like Christmas and Easter. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating travel and visa planning. Additionally, the university’s focus on applied sciences may result in unique scheduling for practical training or industry placements, often integrated into semester breaks. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical German university timelines, prospective students are encouraged to check official university communications for the most current information.