Leuphana Academic Calendar

Leuphana University Lüneburg, located in Lüneburg, Germany, follows a semester-based academic calendar typical of many European universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the Winter Semester, which generally begins in early October and runs through late March, and the Summer Semester, spanning from early April to late September. A notable feature of Leuphana’s calendar is its integration of lecture periods and lecture-free periods, allowing for intensive study phases followed by breaks for exams, research, or internships. This structure provides flexibility for students to balance academic and practical experiences, aligning with the university’s innovative and interdisciplinary approach to education.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – First day of classes, often preceded by an orientation week for new students.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – Holiday period covering Christmas and New Year’s Day.
• Winter Semester Exams: February 1 – February 28, 2026 – Examination period following the end of lectures.
• Summer Semester Start: April 1, 2026 – Classes resume after the spring break.
• Summer Break: July 15 – September 30, 2026 – Lecture-free period with opportunities for internships or research.

• Application Period Start: May 1, 2025 – Applications open for undergraduate programs for the 2025–2026 academic year, with specific deadlines varying by program.
• Priority Deadline for International Students: July 15, 2025 – Early submission recommended for non-EU applicants due to visa processing times.
• Regular Decision Deadline: August 31, 2025 – Final date for most undergraduate program applications for Winter Semester entry.
• Admission Notifications: Mid-September 2025 – Decisions typically released, allowing time for enrollment and visa arrangements.

The academic calendar at Leuphana University Lüneburg aligns with the standard German university schedule, incorporating national holidays such as Christmas and Easter into its breaks. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with extended lecture-free periods providing opportunities for travel, work, or independent study. For international students, the early application deadlines and structured semester system facilitate smoother transitions, though applicants are advised to account for additional time for visa processing. Leuphana’s calendar also reflects its commitment to balancing academic rigor with practical learning, making it a flexible and student-centered institution.