HFR Academic Calendar

Hochschule Rottenburg, a renowned university of applied sciences in Germany, follows a structured academic calendar typical of many European institutions, organized into two main semesters: the Winter Semester and the Summer Semester. The Winter Semester generally begins in early October and runs through mid-February, while the Summer Semester starts in mid-March and concludes in late July. This biannual structure allows for focused academic periods interspersed with breaks, including a notable winter holiday period in December and January. Unique to Hochschule Rottenburg is its emphasis on practical, project-based learning, which may include intensive modules or fieldwork integrated into the semester schedules, particularly for programs in forestry, environmental sciences, and sustainable development.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Classes begin for all programs, with an orientation week for new students typically held in late September.
• Winter Holiday Break: December 23, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – Campus closure for Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Winter Semester Exams: February 3 – February 14, 2026 – Examination period before the semester break.
• Summer Semester Start: March 16, 2026 – Classes resume after a short inter-semester break.
• Summer Holiday Break: Late July to late September 2026 – Extended break with optional summer courses or internships.
• Summer Semester Exams: July 13 – July 24, 2026 – Final assessments before the summer break.

• Application Period Start for Winter Semester: May 1, 2025 – Applications open for undergraduate programs, with early submission recommended for international students.
• Application Deadline for Winter Semester: July 15, 2025 – Final date for most programs; some courses may have earlier deadlines.
• Admission Notification: August 15 – August 31, 2025 – Decisions released, with additional time for document submission for international applicants.
• Application Deadline for Summer Semester: January 15, 2026 – For programs starting in March, subject to availability of spots.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: Concurrent with admission deadlines – Students are encouraged to apply early for scholarships or funding support.

The academic calendar at Hochschule Rottenburg aligns closely with the standard German university system, ensuring compatibility with national holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and German Unity Day. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with ample breaks that facilitate travel or internships. For international students, the extended summer break provides flexibility for visa renewals or returning home, while the early application deadlines accommodate additional processing times for documentation. It should be noted that specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical German university schedules, as exact details may not yet be publicly available. Students are advised to check the university’s official announcements for the most current information.