UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education Academic Calendar

The UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education, based in Delft, Netherlands, operates on a modular academic calendar tailored to its specialized focus on water education and research. Unlike traditional semester or trimester systems, the institute often structures its programs into short, intensive modules or courses, allowing for flexibility in scheduling. Typically, the academic year runs from October to September of the following year, with key intake periods in the fall. This modular approach accommodates both full-time and part-time students, including professionals pursuing advanced training, and often includes breaks aligned with major European holidays such as Christmas and summer periods.

• Academic Year Start: October 1, 2025 – Marks the beginning of the primary intake for most programs, with orientation activities for new students.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 5, 2026 – A holiday period aligning with Christmas and New Year celebrations across Europe.
• Mid-Year Break: April 10 – April 17, 2026 – A short break often coinciding with Easter holidays, depending on the lunar calendar.
• Summer Period: July 1 – August 31, 2026 – Reduced course activity, often reserved for research, internships, or thesis work.
• Academic Year End: September 30, 2026 – Conclusion of most programs, with graduation ceremonies typically held in late September or early October.

• Application Opening: November 1, 2024 – Applications for the 2025–2026 academic year typically open for prospective students.
• Early Application Deadline: February 1, 2025 – Recommended for international students needing visa processing time; early decisions often notified by March.
• Regular Application Deadline: May 1, 2025 – Final deadline for most programs, with decisions typically released by June or July.
• Scholarship Deadline: April 1, 2025 – Deadline for financial aid or fellowship applications, critical for many international applicants.
• Enrollment Confirmation: August 1, 2025 – Deadline to accept offers and complete enrollment formalities for the October intake.

The academic calendar at UNESCO-IHE aligns closely with European higher education norms, particularly in the Netherlands, where fall intakes and holiday breaks are standard. Its modular structure offers significant flexibility, especially for international students who may need to balance studies with professional commitments. Additionally, the institute’s scheduling considers the needs of a global student body, providing ample time for visa processing and travel arrangements. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, prospective students are encouraged to verify exact timelines through official communications from the institute.