Goethe University Academic Calendar

Johann Wolfgang Goethe University Frankfurt am Main, located in Frankfurt, Germany, follows a traditional European academic calendar divided into two main semesters: the Winter Semester and the Summer Semester. The Winter Semester typically begins in mid-October and runs until mid-February, including a break for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The Summer Semester usually starts in mid-April and concludes in mid-July, with a short break around Pentecost. This structure allows for a clear division of academic activities and aligns with many other German universities, providing ample time for lectures, exams, and research during each term. Notably, the university incorporates lecture-free periods between semesters, which are ideal for internships, independent study, or preparation for examinations.

• Winter Semester Start: October 15, 2025 (lectures begin; orientation for new students typically occurs in early October).
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 (no lectures; university facilities may have limited access).
• Winter Semester End/Exams: February 10 – February 28, 2026 (exam period; specific dates depend on department).
• Summer Semester Start: April 14, 2026 (lectures begin after the Easter break).
• Summer Semester End/Exams: July 10 – July 31, 2026 (exam period; followed by a lecture-free period).

• Application Period for Winter Semester (Restricted Programs): May 1 – July 15, 2025 (for programs with limited spots; early application is recommended for international students).
• Application Period for Winter Semester (Unrestricted Programs): June 1 – August 31, 2025 (later deadlines may apply; check specific program requirements).
• Notification of Admission: Mid-August to early September 2025 (applicants are informed of decisions; international students may need additional time for visa processing).
• Enrollment Deadline: Late September 2025 (exact date varies; required to secure a spot and complete registration).

The academic calendar at Goethe University Frankfurt am Main aligns closely with national norms in Germany, adhering to the semester structure common across the region and incorporating breaks that coincide with major public holidays like Christmas and Easter. This scheduling offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating planning for travel or additional academic pursuits during lecture-free periods. For international students, the extended application windows and clear semester timelines provide flexibility, though early application is advised to accommodate visa processing and housing arrangements. Additionally, the university’s focus on research-intensive periods during semesters ensures that students can engage deeply with their studies while balancing personal and academic commitments.