SFA Academic Calendar

The Sarajevo Film Academy, located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, follows a semester-based academic calendar typical of many European universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the Fall Semester, which generally begins in early October and concludes in late January, and the Spring Semester, running from mid-February to late June. This structure allows for a significant winter break aligned with regional holidays and a shorter summer break dedicated to internships or project work, reflecting the academy’s focus on practical filmmaking experience. Additionally, the calendar includes examination periods at the end of each semester and occasional intensive workshops or short courses during breaks, catering to the creative and hands-on nature of film education.

• Fall Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Classes commence for all programs.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 5, 2026 – Includes national holidays and New Year celebrations.
• Fall Semester Exams: January 15 – January 30, 2026 – Assessment period for Fall courses.
• Spring Semester Start: February 16, 2026 – Second semester begins.
• Spring Semester Exams: June 15 – June 30, 2026 – Final assessments for the academic year.
• Commencement Ceremony: Early July 2026 – Graduation event for completing students (exact date to be confirmed).

• Early Application Deadline: November 15, 2024 – Recommended for international students needing visa processing time; decisions notified by mid-December 2024.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2025 – Final deadline for most undergraduate applicants; decisions released by late March 2025.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 1, 2025 – Submit scholarship or aid requests alongside admission applications.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: May 1, 2025 – Accepted students must confirm attendance and pay deposits.

The academic calendar of the Sarajevo Film Academy aligns closely with regional norms in Bosnia and Herzegovina and broader European university systems, particularly in its semester structure and holiday scheduling around major national and religious observances. This alignment offers flexibility for international students, as the extended winter break provides ample time for travel or visa-related arrangements. Additionally, the academy’s emphasis on practical training may result in unique scheduling adjustments, such as intensive film production periods or festival participation, which are often integrated into the academic year. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical regional patterns, prospective students are encouraged to check official announcements for confirmed schedules.