NAM Academic Calendar

The National Academy of Music (Pantcho Vladigerov), located in Bulgaria, follows a traditional European academic calendar structured into two main semesters: fall and spring. The academic year typically begins in early October and concludes in late June, with a significant winter break around the end of December to early January. This structure allows for intensive study periods, performance-based assessments, and preparation for recitals or examinations, which are central to the academy’s focus on music education. Additionally, the calendar includes shorter breaks aligned with national holidays and a summer period dedicated to internships, masterclasses, or independent practice, reflecting the institution’s emphasis on both academic and artistic development.

• Fall Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Classes and workshops commence for all students.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 5, 2026 – Includes Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Spring Semester Start: February 10, 2026 – Return to academic and performance schedules.
• Easter Break: April 17–20, 2026 – Aligned with Orthodox Easter celebrations in Bulgaria.
• Final Examinations: June 1–15, 2026 – Includes written exams and performance evaluations.
• Commencement Ceremony: Late June 2026 – Specific date to be announced, celebrating graduating students.

• Application Opening: November 1, 2024 – Applications for the Class of 2030 become available.
• Early Application Deadline: February 15, 2025 – Recommended for priority consideration and scholarship eligibility.
• Regular Decision Deadline: May 1, 2025 – Final deadline for most undergraduate programs, including auditions.
• Audition Dates: March–May 2025 – Specific dates vary by instrument or program; early application advised.
• Admission Decisions Released: June 15, 2025 – Notifications sent for regular decision applicants.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: July 1, 2025 – Deadline to accept offers and submit deposits, with considerations for international student visa processing.

The academic calendar of the National Academy of Music (Pantcho Vladigerov) aligns closely with other European institutions, particularly in Bulgaria, where semesters are structured around major national and religious holidays like Christmas and Easter. This scheduling offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with extended breaks providing opportunities for travel or additional practice. For international applicants, the admissions timeline offers flexibility with early and regular decision options, though visa processing times should be considered when confirming enrollment. As specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle may not yet be finalized, the above timelines are estimates based on typical patterns for music academies in the region. Students are encouraged to monitor official announcements for updates.