HS PFORZHEIM Academic Calendar

Hochschule Pforzheim, 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 and concludes in late July, with a shorter break in August. This structure aligns with many German universities, offering students a balanced academic year with ample time for internships or research during the summer months. While specific dates may vary annually, Hochschule Pforzheim often incorporates exam periods at the end of each semester and provides flexibility for project-based learning, a hallmark of its applied sciences focus.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 (orientation for new students typically in late September).
• Winter Holiday Break: December 23, 2025 – January 6, 2026 (aligned with Christmas and New Year holidays).
• Winter Semester Exams: February 3 – February 14, 2026 (specific dates depend on program schedules).
• Summer Semester Start: March 16, 2026 (includes introductory sessions for continuing students).
• Summer Semester Exams: July 13 – July 24, 2026 (followed by a break before the next academic year).

• Application Period Start for Winter Semester: May 1, 2025 (early applications encouraged for international students).
• Application Deadline for Winter Semester: July 15, 2025 (final deadline for most undergraduate programs; earlier for restricted programs).
• Admission Notifications: August 1 – August 15, 2025 (applicants informed of decisions, with time to confirm enrollment).
• Application Deadline for Summer Semester: January 15, 2026 (for programs with summer intake; limited availability).

The academic calendar at Hochschule Pforzheim aligns closely with national norms in Germany, adhering to the standard semester system observed across most universities in the region. This structure facilitates coordination with public holidays such as Christmas and Easter, often incorporated into semester breaks. For international students, the calendar offers predictable timelines for planning travel and visa applications, though early application is recommended due to processing times. Additionally, the university’s focus on practical training may influence scheduling, with some programs offering intensive modules or industry placements during semester breaks, providing a unique blend of academic and professional development opportunities.