PHG Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Private Hochschule Göttingen (PFH) in Germany typically follows a semester-based structure, common among many European universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the Winter Semester, which generally begins in early October and concludes in mid-February, and the Summer Semester, running from mid-April to late July. This structure allows for extended breaks, including a significant winter holiday period in December and January, as well as a summer break from late July to late September. A unique feature of PFH’s calendar is its emphasis on integrating practical training and project-based learning, often reflected in shorter, intensive modules or workshops scheduled within the semesters to accommodate industry partnerships and internships.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Classes begin for all programs, with an orientation week for new students typically held in late September.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – Campus closure for Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Winter Semester Exams: January 20 – February 14, 2026 – Examination period before the semester break.
• Summer Semester Start: April 15, 2026 – Classes resume after the spring break.
• Summer Break: July 25 – September 30, 2026 – Extended break with optional summer schools or internships.
• Commencement Ceremony: Late July 2026 – Graduation event for completing students, typically held at the end of the Summer Semester.

• Early Application Deadline: November 15, 2024 – For early consideration for the 2025–2026 academic year, with decisions notified by mid-December 2024.
• Regular Application Deadline: February 28, 2025 – Final deadline for most undergraduate programs, with decisions expected by late March 2025.
• International Student Deadline: January 15, 2025 – Earlier deadline to accommodate visa processing and additional documentation requirements.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 15, 2025 – Submission deadline for scholarships and funding applications, with notifications by April 2025.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: May 30, 2025 – Deadline to accept admission offers and pay enrollment fees for the upcoming academic year.

The academic calendar at Private Hochschule Göttingen aligns closely with regional norms in Lower Saxony and broader German university schedules, particularly in its adherence to the winter and summer semester framework. This structure accommodates national public holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and German Unity Day, often integrated into break periods. For international students, the extended breaks provide flexibility for travel or additional preparatory coursework, though the early application deadlines reflect the need for timely visa processing. Additionally, PFH’s focus on practical training may result in unique scheduling adjustments, such as intensive modules or industry placements, which students should consider when planning their academic year. Note that the above dates are estimates based on typical German university calendars, as specific 2025–2026 dates may not yet be publicly available.