The academic calendar at Université Bordeaux I, located in France, typically follows a semester-based structure common to many European universities. The year is divided into two main semesters: the fall semester, which generally begins in early September and runs through mid-December, and the spring semester, spanning from mid-January to late May or early June. This structure includes designated periods for examinations at the end of each semester, as well as breaks aligned with national holidays such as Christmas and Easter. A notable feature of the calendar is the inclusion of a summer break from June to August, during which some students may engage in internships or research projects, reflecting the university’s emphasis on practical experience.
- Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 (approximate, pending official confirmation). Classes typically commence in the first week of September.
- Mid-Term Break: Late October to early November 2025 (around All Saints’ Day, a national holiday in France, often including a one-week break).
- Christmas Break: December 20, 2025, to January 4, 2026 (approximate). This extended holiday period aligns with national observances.
- Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (approximate). Classes resume after the winter break.
- Easter Break: Mid-April 2026 (typically a two-week break aligned with national holidays).
- Final Exams: Late May to early June 2026. End-of-year assessments are scheduled during this period.
- Commencement: Late June 2026 (approximate). Graduation ceremonies often occur before the summer break.
- Application Opening: November 1, 2024 (approximate). Applications for the 2025–2026 cycle (Class of 2030) typically open in late fall of the prior year.
- Regular Decision Deadline: March 15, 2025 (approximate). This is the standard deadline for most undergraduate programs, with earlier deadlines possible for specific courses.
- International Student Deadline: February 1, 2025 (approximate). International applicants are often encouraged to apply earlier due to visa processing times.
- Decision Notification: April to May 2025. Applicants are typically informed of admission decisions during this period.
- Financial Aid Deadline: April 30, 2025 (approximate). Submission of financial aid or scholarship applications often coincides with or follows admission deadlines.
- Enrollment Confirmation: June 15, 2025 (approximate). Accepted students must confirm their intent to enroll by this date.
The academic calendar at Université Bordeaux I aligns closely with national norms in France, incorporating breaks around major public holidays like Christmas, Easter, and All Saints’ Day, which facilitates coordination for students and faculty. This structure offers some flexibility for international students, as the extended summer break allows time for travel or additional academic pursuits. However, prospective students should note that exact dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical French university schedules, as specific details have not yet been publicly released by the university. Applicants are advised to monitor official university communications for confirmed dates and any unique scheduling considerations, particularly for programs with intensive research or internship components.