PH Heidelberg Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Pädagogische Hochschule Heidelberg, located in Heidelberg, Germany, typically follows the standard German university structure with two main semesters: the Winter Semester and the Summer Semester. The Winter Semester generally begins in early October and runs through mid-February, including a break for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The Summer Semester usually starts in mid-April and concludes in late July, with a longer break over the summer months. This structure aligns with many European universities, providing students with ample time for internships, research, or personal projects during breaks. Unique to some German institutions, lecture periods may be slightly shorter to accommodate intensive exam preparation phases at the end of each semester.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Official start of lectures and orientation for new students.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – University closure for holiday celebrations.
• Winter Semester End/Exams: February 10 – February 28, 2026 – Examination period following the lecture phase.
• Summer Semester Start: April 15, 2026 – Lectures and academic activities resume.
• Summer Break: July 31 – September 30, 2026 – Extended break after exams, ideal for internships or travel.

• Application Period Start: May 1, 2025 – Applications open for undergraduate programs for the 2025–2026 academic year.
• Priority Deadline for International Students: July 15, 2025 – Early submission recommended for visa processing and additional documentation.
• Regular Application Deadline: January 15, 2026 – Final date for most undergraduate programs starting in the Winter Semester.
• Admission Decisions Released: March 1 – March 15, 2026 – Notifications sent to applicants, with time to confirm enrollment.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: February 1, 2026 – Deadline for submitting funding or scholarship applications.

The academic calendar at Pädagogische Hochschule Heidelberg aligns closely with regional and national norms in Germany, where semesters are structured to accommodate public holidays such as Christmas and Easter, as well as extended summer breaks for personal development. This schedule offers flexibility for international students, providing sufficient time for visa applications and travel arrangements between semesters. Additionally, the university’s focus on teacher education may influence scheduling, with potential practicum periods integrated into the calendar to align with school terms. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimated based on typical German university cycles, students are encouraged to check official university announcements for confirmed schedules and any unique considerations.