MSUCA Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Moscow State University of Culture and Arts (MSUCA) typically follows a traditional two-semester structure, common among Russian higher education institutions. The academic year is divided into a fall semester and a spring semester, with the fall term generally starting in early September and concluding in late December or early January. The spring semester often begins in mid-February and ends in late June. This structure includes extended breaks, notably a winter holiday period aligning with New Year celebrations and a summer break for research, internships, or cultural projects, reflecting the university’s emphasis on arts and culture.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 – The official beginning of the academic year, often marked by an opening ceremony.
• Winter Break: December 30, 2025 – January 10, 2026 – A holiday period coinciding with New Year and Orthodox Christmas celebrations.
• Spring Semester Start: February 10, 2026 – Classes resume after the winter examination period.
• Spring Break: Early April 2026 (exact dates TBD) – A short break for students, often tied to regional holidays.
• End of Academic Year: June 30, 2026 – Includes final exams and graduation ceremonies for completing students.

• Application Opening: December 1, 2024 – Applications for the 2025–2026 cycle (Class of 2030) typically open for undergraduate programs.
• Early Admission Deadline: March 15, 2025 – For priority consideration, especially for competitive arts programs.
• Regular Admission Deadline: June 30, 2025 – Final deadline for most undergraduate applicants, including international students.
• Entrance Exams: July 1–15, 2025 – Specific dates vary by program, often including creative or performance assessments.
• Decision Notification: Late July to early August 2025 – Applicants are informed of admission status, with enrollment confirmation deadlines shortly after.

The academic calendar at MSUCA aligns closely with national norms in Russia, incorporating significant breaks around public holidays like New Year and Orthodox Christmas, which provide students with cultural engagement opportunities. The scheduling offers some flexibility for international students, with extended summer breaks allowing for travel or additional training. However, exact dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical Russian university patterns, as specific calendars may not yet be publicly available. Prospective students are encouraged to monitor official university communications for confirmed dates and any unique scheduling tied to cultural or artistic events.