UNED Academic Calendar

The Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED), based in Spain, operates on a flexible academic calendar tailored to its distance learning model. Unlike traditional universities, UNED does not strictly adhere to a semester or trimester system but instead offers a continuous learning framework with key examination and enrollment periods. The academic year typically spans from October to June, with two main examination sessions in February and June. This structure accommodates working students and those balancing other commitments, a hallmark of UNED’s mission to provide accessible education. Additionally, the university offers summer courses and extended enrollment windows, ensuring flexibility for both domestic and international learners.

• Academic Year Start: Early October 2025 – Official start of courses and access to online materials.
• First Examination Period: Early February 2026 – Mid-term assessments for most programs, typically held over two weeks.
• Easter Break: Mid-April 2026 – A short break aligning with national holidays, usually one week.
• Second Examination Period: Early to Mid-June 2026 – Final exams for the academic year, often followed by grade release.
• Summer Courses: July to August 2026 – Optional intensive courses for additional credits or professional development.

• Undergraduate Application Period: Mid-June to Early October 2025 – Main window for submitting applications for the 2025–2026 academic year.
• Admission Confirmation: Late October 2025 – Notification of acceptance and enrollment instructions sent to applicants.
• International Student Deadline: Early September 2025 – Earlier cutoff for non-EU students to account for visa processing times.
• Financial Aid Application: November 2025 – Deadline for scholarships and grants, with decisions typically announced by December.

UNED’s academic calendar aligns with Spain’s national holiday schedule, incorporating breaks for significant dates like Easter and Christmas, which may affect examination scheduling. Its distance learning focus offers unparalleled flexibility, particularly for international students who can engage with coursework asynchronously from anywhere in the world. However, students must remain mindful of examination periods, as physical attendance at designated centers may be required. This unique scheduling reflects UNED’s commitment to accessibility while maintaining academic rigor, setting it apart from more traditional campus-based institutions in Spain.