UFP Academic Calendar

Universidade Fernando Pessoa (UFP), located in Portugal, follows a traditional European academic calendar structured around two main semesters: the fall semester and the spring semester. The fall semester typically begins in late September or early October and runs through mid-February, including a winter break. The spring semester generally starts in late February or early March and concludes in late June or early July, with a short Easter break. This structure aligns with many other Portuguese and European universities, ensuring compatibility for student exchanges and academic collaborations. UFP may also offer intensive summer courses or modular programs for specific disciplines, though these vary by faculty.

• Fall Semester Start: Late September 2025 (exact date to be confirmed); includes orientation week for new students.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026; coincides with Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Midterm Exams (Fall): Mid-November to early December 2025; specific dates depend on the program.
• Spring Semester Start: Late February or early March 2026; often after a short inter-semester break.
• Easter Break: Early to mid-April 2026; typically a one-week holiday period.
• Final Exams (Spring): Mid-June to early July 2026; followed by summer break.
• Commencement Ceremony: Late June or early July 2026; specific date varies by faculty.

• Early Application Deadline: Mid-March 2025; recommended for international students needing visa processing time.
• Regular Admission Deadline: Late May 2025; final deadline for most undergraduate programs for the 2025–2026 cycle.
• Late Application Period: June to early July 2025; subject to availability of spots and additional fees.
• Admission Decision Notification: Rolling basis, typically 4–6 weeks after application submission; most decisions by mid-July 2025.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: Early June 2025; required for scholarships and grants consideration.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: Mid-August 2025; deposit required to secure a spot for the Class of 2030.

The academic calendar at Universidade Fernando Pessoa aligns closely with national norms in Portugal, incorporating public holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and national days into its breaks. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating travel and family planning. Additionally, UFP’s semester system provides flexibility for international exchanges, particularly through programs like Erasmus+, which are synchronized with European academic timelines. Students should note that exact dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are subject to confirmation, as specific calendars may not yet be publicly available. Prospective students are encouraged to monitor official university communications for updates on scheduling and deadlines.