JLU Academic Calendar

Justus Liebig University Giessen, located in Giessen, 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 early October and runs through mid-February, including a break for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The Summer Semester generally starts in mid-April and concludes in mid-July, with a shorter break in between semesters. This structure allows for a balanced academic year, accommodating both intensive study periods and sufficient time for research or internships, which are integral to many programs at this university.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Classes begin for the fall term, with an orientation week for new students often held in late September.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – University closure for the holiday season.
• Winter Semester End/Exams: February 10 – February 28, 2026 – Examination period typically follows the lecture phase.
• Summer Semester Start: April 14, 2026 – Lectures resume after the spring break.
• Summer Semester End/Exams: July 15 – July 31, 2026 – Final exams and project submissions conclude the academic year.

• Application Period for Winter Semester: May 1 – July 15, 2025 – Deadline for most undergraduate programs, with earlier deadlines for restricted-admission courses.
• Application Period for Summer Semester: November 1 – January 15, 2026 – Applicable for select programs starting in the summer term.
• Admission Notification: Late August 2025 (Winter) / Late February 2026 (Summer) – Applicants are typically informed of decisions within 4–6 weeks after deadlines.
• Enrollment Deadline: September 15, 2025 (Winter) / March 15, 2026 (Summer) – Final date to confirm acceptance and complete registration.

The academic calendar at Justus Liebig University Giessen aligns closely with other German universities, adhering to national norms for semester timing and public holiday observances, such as Christmas and Easter breaks. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating planning for travel or visa processes. Additionally, the university’s semester breaks provide flexibility for international students to engage in cultural exchanges or return home, while the clear application timelines ensure accessibility for prospective students worldwide. Note that specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical German university schedules, as exact dates may not yet be publicly available.