UTAD Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro (UTAD), located in Vila Real, Portugal, typically follows a semester-based structure common to many European universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the fall semester, which generally begins in mid-September and runs through late January, and the spring semester, spanning from early February to late June. This structure includes periods for lectures, exams, and breaks, with a notable winter holiday break in December and a shorter Easter break in the spring. UTAD’s calendar often aligns with national holidays and may feature specific periods for research or practical training, reflecting its focus on agricultural and environmental sciences.

• Fall Semester Start: Mid-September 2025 (typically around September 15) - Classes begin for most programs.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025, to January 5, 2026 - Includes Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Fall Semester Exams: Late January 2026 (typically last two weeks of January) - Assessment period for fall courses.
• Spring Semester Start: Early February 2026 (around February 3) - Second semester coursework begins.
• Easter Break: Mid-April 2026 (approximately April 10-17) - Short holiday aligned with national observances.
• Spring Semester Exams: Late June 2026 (typically mid to late June) - Final assessments and project submissions.
• Commencement Ceremony: Early July 2026 (tentative) - Graduation events for completing students.

• First Round Application Deadline: Late April 2025 (around April 30) - For national students via the centralized Portuguese admissions system; results announced in June.
• Second Round Application Deadline: Early July 2025 (approximately July 10) - For remaining spots; aimed at national and some international applicants.
• International Student Application Deadline: March 31, 2025 (tentative) - Early submission recommended due to visa processing times.
• Enrollment Period: Late July to Early August 2025 (typically July 25 to August 5) - Final registration and fee payment for admitted students.
• Decision Notification for International Applicants: May to June 2025 (varies by program) - Notifications sent via email or portal.

UTAD’s academic calendar aligns closely with Portugal’s national education framework, incorporating public holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and Republic Day into its scheduling. This structure offers predictability for both local and international students, though the early application deadlines for international applicants necessitate careful planning due to visa and documentation requirements. Additionally, the university’s emphasis on practical and research-based learning may result in flexible scheduling for certain programs, particularly in fields like agronomy and veterinary medicine. 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 communications for the most accurate and updated information.