SPD Academic Calendar

Scuola Politecnica di Design (SPD), located in Milan, Italy, follows a structured academic calendar typically divided into two main semesters: Fall and Spring. The Fall semester generally begins in late September or early October and runs through mid-February, while the Spring semester starts in late February or early March and concludes in late June or early July. This structure aligns with many European design and art institutions, incorporating breaks for major holidays such as Christmas and Easter, as well as a summer recess for internships or personal projects. SPD’s calendar may also feature intensive workshops or short modular courses, reflecting its focus on practical, project-based learning in design fields.

• Fall Semester Start: October 1, 2025 (approximate, pending official confirmation). Classes typically commence after a brief orientation period.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 (approximate). This extended break aligns with national holidays in Italy.
• Fall Semester Exams: Late January to mid-February 2026 (approximate). Assessment periods may include project presentations unique to design programs.
• Spring Semester Start: February 23, 2026 (approximate). Often follows a short inter-semester break.
• Easter Break: April 3 – April 7, 2026 (approximate). Dates vary based on the national holiday calendar.
• Spring Semester End/Commencement: Late June 2026 (approximate). Includes final project exhibitions and graduation events.

• Early Application Deadline: November 15, 2024 (approximate for 2025-2026 cycle). Recommended for international students needing visa processing time.
• Regular Application Deadline: February 28, 2025 (approximate). Final date for most undergraduate program submissions.
• Portfolio Submission Deadline: March 15, 2025 (approximate). Essential for design-focused admissions at SPD.
• Admission Decision Notification: April 30, 2025 (approximate). Decisions are typically released in spring for fall enrollment.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: May 31, 2025 (approximate). Includes deposit payment to secure a spot.

The academic calendar at Scuola Politecnica di Design aligns closely with Italian and broader European university norms, particularly in its observance of national holidays like Christmas and Easter, which provide extended breaks for students. This structure offers flexibility for international students, allowing time for travel or visa-related arrangements during longer recesses. Additionally, SPD’s emphasis on project-based assessments and exhibitions during exam periods reflects its specialized focus on design education, setting it apart from more traditional academic schedules. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are not yet publicly confirmed, the above timelines are based on typical patterns for design schools in Italy and should be verified closer to the relevant periods.