OSU Academic Calendar

Orenburg State University, located in Orenburg, Russia, follows a traditional academic calendar structured around two main semesters: fall and spring. The fall semester typically begins in early September and runs through late December, while the spring semester starts in early February and concludes in late June. This structure aligns with many Russian universities and includes extended breaks, such as a winter holiday period in January and a summer break from July to August. A notable feature of the university’s calendar is the inclusion of examination periods at the end of each semester, often lasting two to three weeks, allowing students ample time for assessments and project submissions.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 – Classes begin for all students, often marked by an opening ceremony.
• Fall Semester Exams: December 15–30, 2025 – End-of-term assessments and project deadlines.
• Winter Break: January 1–31, 2026 – A long holiday period coinciding with New Year and Orthodox Christmas celebrations.
• Spring Semester Start: February 2, 2026 – Classes resume after the winter break.
• Spring Semester Exams: June 1–20, 2026 – Final exams and graduation preparations.
• Summer Break: June 21–August 31, 2026 – Extended break for internships, research, or personal projects.

• Application Opening: December 1, 2024 – Applications for the 2025–2026 cycle (Class of 2030) become available.
• Early Admission Deadline: March 15, 2025 – For priority consideration, especially for competitive programs.
• Regular Admission Deadline: June 30, 2025 – Final date for most undergraduate program applications.
• International Student Deadline: May 15, 2025 – Earlier deadline to accommodate visa processing and document verification.
• Admission Decisions Released: July 15–August 1, 2025 – Notifications sent to applicants, with specific dates varying by program.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: June 30, 2025 – Coincides with regular admission deadline for scholarship consideration.

The academic calendar at Orenburg State University aligns closely with national norms in Russia, particularly with its extended winter break reflecting cultural and climatic considerations, such as the harsh winter weather in the region. The scheduling of semesters and breaks offers some flexibility for international students, with ample time during the summer for travel or additional studies. However, prospective students should note that exact dates for academic and admissions events may vary slightly year to year, and they are encouraged to verify specifics closer to the application period. The university’s calendar also accommodates public holidays like Victory Day in May, often integrating them into short breaks or adjusted class schedules.