LAA Academic Calendar

The Latvian Academy of Arts, located in Latvia, follows a traditional European academic calendar structured around two main semesters: the fall semester and the spring semester. The fall semester typically begins in early September and runs through mid-December, while the spring semester starts in late January or early February and concludes in late May or early June. This structure allows for a significant winter break around the holiday season and a longer summer break for research, internships, or personal projects. A notable feature of the academy’s calendar is its alignment with cultural and artistic events in Latvia, often integrating exhibitions or workshops into the academic schedule to enrich students’ practical learning experiences.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 – Classes begin for all students, often preceded by an orientation week for new enrollees.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 5, 2026 – Includes Christmas and New Year holidays, with campus facilities typically closed.
• Spring Semester Start: February 2, 2026 – Resumption of classes after the winter break.
• Exam Periods: Mid-December 2025 and late May to early June 2026 – Dedicated weeks for final assessments and project submissions.
• Commencement Ceremony: Mid-June 2026 – Graduation event for completing students, often held with an accompanying art exhibition.

• Application Opening: January 15, 2025 – Start of the application period for the 2025–2026 academic year (Class of 2030).
• Early Application Deadline: April 1, 2025 – Recommended for international students to allow time for visa processing; decisions typically notified by late April.
• Regular Decision Deadline: June 15, 2025 – Final date for most undergraduate applications; decisions expected by mid-July.
• Portfolio Submission Deadline: June 30, 2025 – Specific to art programs, requiring a portfolio review as part of the admissions process.
• Enrollment Confirmation: August 1, 2025 – Deadline to accept offers and submit deposits, with additional documentation for international applicants.

The academic calendar of the Latvian Academy of Arts aligns closely with regional norms across Europe, particularly in the Baltic states, where semesters are structured to accommodate national holidays like Christmas and Easter, as well as Latvia’s cultural celebrations. This scheduling offers flexibility for international students, providing ample breaks for travel or visa-related arrangements. Additionally, the academy’s focus on artistic disciplines means that certain periods may be dedicated to intensive studio work or public exhibitions, which can influence scheduling for exams or coursework. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, prospective students are encouraged to check official announcements for the most accurate and updated information.