TU Darmstadt Academic Calendar

Technische Universität Darmstadt (TU Darmstadt), located in Darmstadt, 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 mid-October and runs until mid-February, including a break for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The Summer Semester usually starts in mid-April and concludes in mid-July, followed by a longer summer break. This structure allows for intensive study periods, with lecture-free times dedicated to exams, research, or internships. TU Darmstadt’s calendar aligns with many German universities, incorporating flexibility for project-based learning and practical training, which are integral to its engineering and technical programs.

• Winter Semester Start: October 15, 2025 (lectures begin; orientation for new students typically occurs in early October).
• Christmas Break: December 23, 2025 – January 6, 2026 (university closure for national holidays).
• Winter Semester End/Exams: February 10 – February 28, 2026 (exam period following lectures).
• Summer Semester Start: April 14, 2026 (lectures resume after the spring break).
• Summer Semester End/Exams: July 15 – July 31, 2026 (lectures end, followed by exams).
• Summer Break: August 1 – October 14, 2026 (no lectures; time for internships or research).

• Application Period Start for Winter Semester: May 1, 2025 (applications open for most undergraduate programs, including international applicants).
• Application Deadline for Restricted Programs: July 15, 2025 (deadline for programs with limited spots; earlier for some international students due to visa processing).
• Application Deadline for Non-Restricted Programs: August 31, 2025 (final deadline for most programs; subject to change based on availability).
• Admission Notification: August – September 2025 (decisions typically released; exact dates vary by program).
• Enrollment Deadline: Late September 2025 (final date to confirm enrollment and pay fees).

The academic calendar at TU Darmstadt aligns closely with national norms in Germany, adhering to the semester structure common across the region and incorporating breaks for major public holidays like Christmas and Easter. This schedule offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with ample time during the summer break for internships or travel. International applicants should note the early application deadlines to accommodate visa processing and language proficiency requirements. Additionally, the university’s focus on research and practical training means that lecture-free periods are often used for hands-on projects, providing a unique blend of theoretical and applied learning opportunities.