ULisboa Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Universidade de Lisboa, one of Portugal's leading institutions, typically follows a two-semester structure common to many European universities. The academic year is divided into a Fall Semester, generally starting in mid-September and concluding in late January, and a Spring Semester, running from early February to late June. This structure includes periods for lectures, exams, and breaks, with notable pauses during Christmas and Easter holidays. A unique feature of the university’s calendar is its alignment with national holidays and cultural events, often providing extended breaks that allow students to engage in local traditions or focus on independent study and research projects.

• Fall Semester Start: Mid-September 2025 (typically around September 15) – Orientation and classes begin.
• Mid-Term Exams: Late October to early November 2025 – Assessment period for Fall courses.
• Christmas Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 20 to January 5) – University closure for holiday season.
• Fall Semester Exams: Mid to late January 2026 – Final assessments for Fall courses.
• Spring Semester Start: Early February 2026 (typically around February 5) – Classes resume.
• Easter Break: Mid-April 2026 (aligned with national holidays) – Short break for students and staff.
• Spring Semester Exams: Late May to mid-June 2026 – Final exams and project submissions.
• Commencement Ceremony: Late June or early July 2026 – Graduation events for completing students.

• First Application Phase Deadline: Late February to early March 2025 (typically around March 1) – For national and EU students; results announced by April.
• Second Application Phase Deadline: Late April to early May 2025 (approximately May 5) – Additional round for remaining spots; notifications by June.
• International Student Application Deadline: Early April 2025 (often around April 15) – Specific deadlines for non-EU applicants; includes visa processing considerations.
• Enrollment Period: July to early August 2025 – Accepted students confirm enrollment and submit final documents.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: Mid-May 2025 – For scholarships and grants; decisions typically notified by late June.

The academic calendar at Universidade de Lisboa aligns closely with Portugal’s national education framework and cultural calendar, incorporating breaks for significant holidays like Christmas and Easter, which are widely observed across the region. This structure offers predictability for both local and international students, though non-EU applicants should note the earlier admissions deadlines to accommodate visa processing. Additionally, the university’s scheduling provides flexibility for research-intensive periods, particularly during summer months, allowing students to pursue internships or independent projects. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical Portuguese university timelines, prospective students are encouraged to consult official university resources for the most accurate and updated information.