UCP Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Universidade Católica Portuguesa (UCP) typically follows a semester-based structure, common among European universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the fall semester, which generally begins in late September or early October and runs through mid-February, and the spring semester, which starts in late February or early March and concludes in late June or early July. This structure includes periods for lectures, exams, and breaks, with notable pauses for Christmas and Easter holidays. UCP may also offer intensive summer sessions or modular courses for specific programs, providing flexibility for students balancing academic and professional commitments.

• Fall Semester Start: Late September 2025 (typically around September 25–30), marking the beginning of the academic year with orientation for new students.
• Mid-Term Exams (Fall): Mid-November 2025, often followed by a short reading period or holiday break.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 5, 2026, aligning with national holidays in Portugal.
• Spring Semester Start: Late February 2026 (around February 23–28), following winter exams and a brief inter-semester break.
• Easter Break: April 10–20, 2026, corresponding with religious observances and national holidays.
• Final Exams (Spring): Late June to early July 2026, concluding the academic year.
• Commencement Ceremony: Early July 2026, celebrating graduating students with formal events.

• Early Application Deadline: November 15, 2024, for early consideration, with decisions typically notified by late December 2024.
• Regular Admission Deadline: February 1, 2025, for most undergraduate programs, with notifications expected by mid-April 2025.
• Final Application Deadline (Late Round): May 1, 2025, primarily for remaining spots or international applicants, with decisions by early June 2025.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 15, 2025, to ensure timely processing alongside admission decisions.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: June 15, 2025, requiring accepted students to confirm their intent to enroll and submit deposits.

The academic calendar at Universidade Católica Portuguesa aligns closely with national norms in Portugal, incorporating significant breaks for cultural and religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter, which are widely observed. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating travel and family commitments. Additionally, UCP’s scheduling provides some flexibility for international students through potential summer sessions and clear semester breaks, allowing for visa planning or return trips. However, as exact dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle may not yet be publicly available, the above timelines are estimates based on typical patterns observed in Portuguese higher education institutions. Students are encouraged to monitor official university communications for confirmed dates and any unique scheduling adjustments specific to their programs.