HU BERLIN Academic Calendar

Humboldt University of Berlin, one of Germany's most prestigious institutions, follows a traditional European academic calendar divided into two main semesters: the Winter Semester and the Summer Semester. The Winter Semester typically begins in early October and runs through mid-February, with a notable break around Christmas and New Year. The Summer Semester usually starts in mid-April and concludes in mid-July. This structure includes lecture periods, examination phases, and semester breaks, allowing students ample time for research and internships. A unique feature of Humboldt’s calendar is its alignment with German public holidays, which often extend breaks, particularly in the winter months.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 - Lectures begin, marking the official start of the academic year.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 - January 6, 2026 - University closure for holiday celebrations.
• Winter Semester Exams: February 1 - February 15, 2026 - Examination period before the semester break.
• Summer Semester Start: April 15, 2026 - Lectures resume after the spring break.
• Summer Semester Exams: July 1 - July 15, 2026 - Final exams and assessments for the semester.

• Application Period Start for Winter Semester: May 1, 2025 - Initial application window opens for most undergraduate programs.
• Regular Decision Deadline: July 15, 2025 - Final deadline for most programs starting in October 2025.
• Admission Notifications: August 1 - August 15, 2025 - Decisions typically released during this period.
• Enrollment Deadline: September 15, 2025 - Accepted students must confirm enrollment and submit final documents.
• International Student Deadline: June 1, 2025 - Earlier deadline to accommodate visa processing times.

The academic calendar at Humboldt University of Berlin aligns closely with other German and European universities, adhering to the Bologna Process framework for higher education. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with semester breaks often coinciding with national holidays like Easter and Christmas. For international students, the extended breaks provide opportunities to travel or engage in cultural immersion, while the early application deadlines ensure sufficient time for visa arrangements. Note that specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, as official calendars may not yet be published. Students are encouraged to check the university’s official announcements for the most current information.