KI Academic Calendar

The Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, Sweden, renowned for its contributions to medical research and education, follows a structured academic calendar typically divided into two main semesters: autumn and spring. The autumn semester generally begins in late August or early September and runs through mid-January, while the spring semester starts in mid-January and concludes in early June. This biannual structure aligns with many European universities, incorporating breaks for major holidays such as Christmas and Easter, as well as a summer break from June to August. A distinctive feature of Karolinska’s calendar is its focus on intensive research and clinical training periods, often integrated into the semester schedules for medical and health science students.

• Autumn Semester Start: Late August 2025 (typically around August 25–30); includes orientation for new students.
• Christmas Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 20–January 6); aligns with national holidays in Sweden.
• Spring Semester Start: Mid-January 2026 (around January 15); often begins with introductory sessions or exams from the previous term.
• Easter Break: Early April 2026 (typically a week around Easter weekend); coincides with national observances.
• Spring Semester End: Early June 2026 (around June 5–10); includes final exams and commencement ceremonies for graduating students.

• Application Period Opens: Mid-October 2024 (typically October 15); for international and domestic applicants to undergraduate programs.
• Application Deadline: Mid-January 2025 (around January 15); key date for most undergraduate programs, especially for international students.
• Admission Decisions Released: Late March to early April 2025; notifications often sent via email or online portals.
• Acceptance Confirmation Deadline: Late April 2025 (approximately April 30); students must confirm their place and submit any required deposits.
• Final Document Submission: Early July 2025; includes transcripts and other materials, particularly for international applicants needing visas.

The academic calendar at Karolinska Institute aligns closely with Swedish national holidays and the broader European university framework, ensuring students experience breaks during significant cultural events like Christmas and Midsummer. This structure offers some flexibility for international students, with clear semester breaks facilitating travel or visa arrangements. However, the intensive nature of medical and research-focused programs may require additional commitments during breaks for clinical placements or projects. As specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are not yet publicly confirmed, the above timelines are estimates based on historical patterns and typical Swedish university schedules. Students are encouraged to monitor official announcements for precise dates and any updates to policies or deadlines.