OVGU Academic Calendar

Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, located in Magdeburg, Germany, follows a traditional European academic calendar divided into two main semesters: the Winter Semester and the Summer Semester. The Winter Semester typically begins in early October and runs through late March, with a significant break around Christmas and New Year. The Summer Semester usually starts in early April and concludes in late September, including a longer summer break from mid-July to late September. This structure aligns with many German universities, offering students ample time for internships or research during breaks, and incorporates lecture-free periods for exams at the end of each semester.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Official start of lectures, preceded by orientation week for new students.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – University closure for holiday celebrations.
• Winter Semester Exams: February 15 – March 15, 2026 – Lecture-free period dedicated to examinations.
• Summer Semester Start: April 1, 2026 – Lectures resume after the semester break.
• Summer Break: July 15 – September 30, 2026 – Extended break for internships or personal projects.
• Summer Semester Exams: July 1 – July 15, 2026 – Exam period before the summer break.

• Application Deadline for Winter Semester: July 15, 2025 – Deadline for most undergraduate programs, with earlier deadlines for restricted programs.
• Application Deadline for Summer Semester: January 15, 2026 – Applicable for select programs starting in the summer.
• Admission Notification: August 15 – September 1, 2025 (Winter); February 15 – March 1, 2026 (Summer) – Approximate dates for decision announcements.
• Enrollment Deadline: September 15, 2025 (Winter); March 15, 2026 (Summer) – Final date to accept offers and complete enrollment.
• International Student Application: May 15, 2025 (Winter); November 15, 2025 (Summer) – Earlier deadlines to account for visa processing.

The academic calendar at Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg aligns closely with national norms in Germany, incorporating public holidays such as Christmas and Easter into its breaks. This structure offers predictability for students planning their studies or travel. For international students, the extended summer break provides flexibility for returning home or engaging in professional opportunities. However, prospective students should note that exact dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle may vary, as specific calendars are typically published closer to the academic year. The university’s scheduling also reflects a balance between academic rigor and research opportunities, particularly during lecture-free periods.