RWTH Academic Calendar

Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule Aachen (RWTH Aachen), located in Aachen, 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 mid-February, including a break for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The Summer Semester usually starts in early April and concludes in late July, with a short break around Pentecost. This structure aligns with many German universities, offering a clear division for coursework, exams, and research activities. A notable feature of RWTH Aachen’s calendar is its emphasis on intensive exam periods at the end of each semester, allowing students focused time for assessments.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Classes begin for the academic year.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – University closure for holiday season.
• Winter Semester Exams: Mid-February 2026 – Specific dates vary by program, typically two weeks long.
• Summer Semester Start: April 1, 2026 – Classes resume after the semester break.
• Pentecost Break: Mid-May 2026 – A short holiday break, dates to be confirmed.
• Summer Semester Exams: Late July 2026 – End-of-semester assessments, followed by a break until October.

• Application Period for Winter Semester (Restricted Programs): May 1 – July 15, 2025 – Deadlines for programs with limited spots, especially for international students.
• Application Period for Winter Semester (Non-Restricted Programs): May 1 – September 30, 2025 – Open enrollment programs, subject to specific requirements.
• Notification of Admission: August – September 2025 – Decisions typically released 4-6 weeks after application deadlines.
• Enrollment Deadline: Late September 2025 – Final date to accept offers and complete registration.
• Application Period for Summer Semester: November 1, 2025 – January 15, 2026 – For select programs starting in April, primarily for continuing or transfer students.

The academic calendar at RWTH Aachen aligns closely with national norms in Germany, adhering to the standard semester structure observed across most public universities. Breaks often coincide with major public holidays like Christmas and Pentecost, providing predictable downtime for students. For international students, the calendar offers some flexibility, with extended application periods and clear enrollment deadlines, though early preparation is advised due to visa processing times. Additionally, RWTH Aachen’s focus on engineering and technical disciplines means that exam periods and project deadlines may be particularly intensive, reflecting the university’s research-oriented approach. Note that the dates provided are estimates based on typical German university schedules, as specific 2025–2026 calendars may not yet be published.