UC Academic Calendar

The Universidade de Coimbra, one of Portugal's oldest and most prestigious institutions, follows a traditional academic calendar structured into two main semesters: the fall semester and the spring semester. The fall semester typically begins in mid-September and runs through late January, encompassing lectures, assessments, and a holiday break in December. The spring semester usually starts in mid-February and concludes in late June, with a short Easter break. This structure aligns with many European universities, offering students a balanced schedule for coursework and examinations, alongside opportunities for cultural engagement during breaks. Unique to Coimbra is its historical emphasis on ceremonial events, such as the Queima das Fitas in May, which marks a significant academic and social milestone for students.

• Fall Semester Start: Mid-September 2025 (typically around September 15) - Orientation and classes begin.
• Christmas Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 20 to January 5) - University closure for holidays.
• Fall Semester Exams: Late January 2026 (typically last two weeks of January) - Assessment period for fall courses.
• Spring Semester Start: Mid-February 2026 (around February 15) - Classes resume after a short inter-semester break.
• Easter Break: Early April 2026 (dates vary based on religious calendar) - A week-long pause in academic activities.
• Spring Semester Exams: Late June 2026 (typically mid to late June) - Final assessments and project submissions.

• Application Period Start for International Students: Early January 2025 (typically January 5 to 10) - First phase for non-EU applicants.
• National Access Application Deadline: Late March 2025 (around March 25) - For Portuguese and EU students applying through the national system.
• International Student Application Deadline: Late April 2025 (approximately April 30) - Final submission for non-EU candidates, with decisions notified by June.
• Enrollment and Registration: Late July to early August 2025 (typically July 20 to August 5) - Accepted students confirm their place and complete paperwork.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: Early September 2025 (around September 1) - Submission for scholarships and grants, especially for international students.

The academic calendar at Universidade de Coimbra aligns closely with Portugal’s national educational framework and European norms, ensuring compatibility with public holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and national days like Portugal Day on June 10. This structure provides predictability for both domestic and international students, with ample breaks to accommodate travel or cultural immersion. Additionally, the university offers some flexibility in exam scheduling and modular course options, particularly for postgraduate students, reflecting its commitment to accommodating diverse academic needs. For international students, the early application deadlines and extended enrollment periods are designed to facilitate visa processing and relocation, making Coimbra an accessible choice for global learners.