RUB Academic Calendar

Ruhr-Universität Bochum (RUB), located in Bochum, 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, while the Summer Semester starts in mid-April and concludes in mid-July. This structure includes lecture periods, examination phases, and semester breaks, with a notable winter break around Christmas and New Year. RUB’s calendar aligns with the German university system, offering a semester break in February and March, as well as a longer summer break from July to September, allowing students time for internships, research, or personal projects.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 - Lectures begin, marking the official start of the academic year.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 - University closure for the holiday season.
• Winter Semester Exams: Late January to mid-February 2026 - Specific dates depend on individual faculties.
• Semester Break: Mid-February to mid-April 2026 - A non-lecture period for preparation or internships.
• Summer Semester Start: April 14, 2026 - Lectures resume after the break.
• Summer Semester Exams: Late June to mid-July 2026 - End-of-term assessments.

• Application Period for Winter Semester: May 1 – July 15, 2025 - Deadline for most undergraduate programs, with earlier cutoffs for restricted programs.
• Application Period for Summer Semester: November 1 – January 15, 2026 - For programs starting in the summer term.
• Admission Notifications: Late August to early September 2025 (Winter); late February to early March 2026 (Summer) - Applicants are informed of decisions.
• Enrollment Deadline: Mid-September 2025 (Winter); mid-March 2026 (Summer) - Final date to confirm enrollment and pay fees.
• International Student Deadlines: Typically 2–3 months earlier than standard deadlines - Additional time required for visa processing.

The academic calendar at Ruhr-Universität Bochum aligns closely with national norms in Germany, adhering to the standard semester structure observed by most universities in the region. Key holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, are integrated into the breaks, ensuring alignment with public schedules. For international students, the extended semester breaks provide flexibility for travel or visa-related needs, while the early application deadlines accommodate additional administrative requirements. RUB’s scheduling also supports its strong focus on research, with non-lecture periods offering opportunities for academic projects or professional development. Note that specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical German university timelines, as exact details may not yet be publicly available.