RUDN Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at People's Friendship University of Russia (RUDN University), located in Moscow, Russia, typically follows a two-semester structure common to many Russian and international universities. The academic year is divided into a fall semester, starting in early September, and a spring semester, beginning in early February. Each semester generally spans around 15–16 weeks, including lecture periods, practical sessions, and examination weeks. A notable feature of RUDN’s calendar is its alignment with Russian public holidays, such as the extended winter break in late December and early January, which coincides with New Year and Orthodox Christmas celebrations. This structure accommodates both local and international students, reflecting the university’s diverse student body.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 – Classes typically begin on this date, often marked by an opening ceremony.
• Midterm Exams: Mid-October to late October 2025 – Assessment period for ongoing coursework and projects.
• Winter Break: December 30, 2025, to January 10, 2026 – Extended holiday period covering New Year and Orthodox Christmas.
• Spring Semester Start: February 9, 2026 – Classes resume after the winter break.
• Final Exams: Late May to mid-June 2026 – End-of-year assessments for most programs.
• Summer Break: Mid-June to August 31, 2026 – Long break for students, with some programs offering summer internships or research opportunities.

• Application Opening: November 1, 2024 – Applications for the 2025–2026 academic year (Class of 2030) typically open for international and domestic students.
• Early Admission Deadline: February 15, 2025 – Priority deadline for certain programs, with decisions often notified by late March.
• Regular Admission Deadline: June 30, 2025 – Final deadline for most undergraduate programs, especially for international applicants requiring visa processing.
• Document Submission Deadline: July 15, 2025 – Deadline for submitting required academic records, language proficiency tests, and other materials.
• Admission Decisions: Mid-July to early August 2025 – Notifications typically released, with additional time for international students to arrange visas.

The academic calendar at RUDN University aligns closely with national norms in Russia, particularly in its observance of major public holidays like Victory Day in May and the extended winter break. This scheduling offers flexibility for international students, who form a significant portion of the student body, by providing ample time for travel and cultural adaptation during breaks. Additionally, the university’s admissions timeline is designed to accommodate the needs of global applicants, with extended deadlines and support for visa processing. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical Russian university calendars, prospective students are encouraged to check official university announcements for confirmed schedules.