Leiden Academic Calendar

Leiden University, one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands, follows a structured academic calendar based on a semester system. The academic year typically consists of two main semesters: the fall semester, which begins in early September and runs through late January, and the spring semester, spanning from early February to late June. This structure includes periods for lectures, exams, and breaks, aligning with many European universities. A notable feature of Leiden’s calendar is the inclusion of block-based teaching in some programs, allowing for intensive, focused study periods within each semester, alongside traditional holiday breaks.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 – First day of classes for most programs, often preceded by orientation events.
• Mid-Term Break: October 20–24, 2025 (approximate) – A short break for students to recharge before the second half of the semester.
• Winter Break: December 22, 2025 – January 4, 2026 – Extended holiday period covering Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
• Spring Semester Start: February 2, 2026 – Classes resume after the winter break.
• Exam Periods: Late January 2026 and late June 2026 (approximate) – Dedicated weeks for assessments at the end of each semester.
• Commencement: Late June or early July 2026 – Graduation ceremonies for completing students.

• Application Opening: October 1, 2024 – Start of applications for the 2025–2026 academic year (Class of 2030).
• Early Deadline for Selective Programs: January 15, 2025 – Deadline for competitive programs like Medicine or International Studies, with notifications by mid-March.
• Regular Decision Deadline: April 1, 2025 – Final date for most undergraduate programs, with decisions typically released by late May.
• International Student Deadline: April 1, 2025 – Same as regular decision, but early submission is encouraged for visa processing.
• Financial Aid Application: May 1, 2025 (approximate) – Deadline for scholarship or funding applications, varying by program.

The academic calendar at Leiden University aligns closely with Dutch and broader European educational norms, incorporating national holidays such as King’s Day in late April and Liberation Day on May 5. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with ample breaks to accommodate travel or cultural observances. Additionally, the university’s block system in certain faculties provides flexibility for intensive research or internships, which is particularly beneficial for international students balancing academic and practical experiences. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on historical patterns, students are encouraged to verify exact schedules through official university channels as the academic year approaches.