IUFS Academic Calendar

The International University of Fundamental Studies (IUFS) in St. Petersburg operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is common among universities in the region. The academic year typically consists of two main semesters: Fall and Spring, with a shorter Summer session for intensive courses or research opportunities. The Fall semester generally begins in early September and concludes in late December, while the Spring semester runs from early February to late May. A notable feature of IUFS’s calendar is its alignment with Russian public holidays, which often results in extended breaks during key national celebrations such as New Year and Victory Day, providing students with additional time for rest or independent study.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 – Classes commence for all students, often preceded by an orientation week.
• National Holiday Break: November 4–6, 2025 – Observance of National Unity Day, with no classes scheduled.
• Winter Break: December 30, 2025 – January 10, 2026 – Extended holiday period covering New Year celebrations.
• Spring Semester Start: February 9, 2026 – Classes resume after the winter break.
• Victory Day Break: May 9, 2026 – National holiday with potential extended weekend.
• Final Exams and Commencement: Late May to early June 2026 – Specific dates vary by program, with graduation ceremonies typically held in early June.

• Early Action Deadline: November 15, 2024 – For early consideration, with decisions typically notified by mid-December 2024.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 15, 2025 – Standard application deadline for the Fall 2025 intake, with decisions released by late March 2025.
• International Student Application Deadline: December 1, 2024 – Earlier deadline to accommodate visa processing and other requirements.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: February 1, 2025 – Submission of documents for scholarships or grants, with notifications aligned with admission decisions.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: May 1, 2025 – Accepted students must confirm their intent to enroll and submit deposits by this date.

The academic calendar at IUFS aligns closely with regional norms in Russia, particularly in its recognition of national holidays and seasonal breaks, which offers predictability for both domestic and international students. The extended winter break is especially beneficial for international students, providing ample time to travel or adjust to the local climate and culture. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical university schedules in St. Petersburg, IUFS’s structure demonstrates flexibility, particularly in supporting international applicants through tailored deadlines. Students are encouraged to verify exact dates through official university communications as they become available.