KU Leuven Academic Calendar

KU Leuven, located in Belgium, follows a structured academic calendar based on a semester system, typical of many European universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the first semester generally runs from late September to late January, while the second semester spans from mid-February to late June. This structure includes examination periods at the end of each semester and incorporates breaks aligned with national holidays such as Christmas and Easter. A notable feature of KU Leuven’s calendar is its alignment with the broader European academic framework, allowing for student exchanges and research collaborations. The university also offers summer sessions for specific programs or resit exams, providing flexibility for students to manage their academic progress.

• First Semester Start: September 22, 2025 (approximate, typically late September), marking the beginning of lectures and coursework.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (approximate), a holiday period with no classes or exams.
• First Semester Exams: January 12 – January 31, 2026 (approximate), dedicated to assessments and evaluations.
• Second Semester Start: February 9, 2026 (approximate, typically mid-February), resuming academic activities.
• Easter Break: April 6 – April 19, 2026 (approximate), aligning with national holidays.
• Second Semester Exams: June 1 – June 27, 2026 (approximate), concluding the academic year.
• Graduation Ceremonies: Late June to early July 2026, celebrating student achievements.

• Application Opening for Undergraduate Programs: October 1, 2024 (approximate), when applications typically become available for the 2025–2026 cycle.
• Deadline for Non-EEA International Students: March 1, 2025 (approximate), due to visa processing timelines.
• Deadline for EEA Students: June 1, 2025 (approximate), offering a later window for European applicants.
• Admission Decisions Released: April to July 2025 (rolling basis, depending on application submission date and program).
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: August 15, 2025 (approximate), securing a spot for the upcoming academic year.

The academic calendar at KU Leuven aligns closely with Belgian and broader European norms, incorporating significant breaks during Christmas and Easter that reflect national cultural practices. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating planning for travel or internships. Additionally, the university’s semester system and extended summer period provide flexibility for international exchanges and research-intensive programs, which are a hallmark of KU Leuven’s academic offerings. Students are encouraged to verify exact dates each year, as slight variations may occur due to public holidays or institutional adjustments.