UCBL Academic Calendar

Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, located in Lyon, France, follows a structured academic calendar typical of many European universities, organized into two main semesters: the fall semester and the spring semester. The fall semester generally begins in early September and runs through late December or early January, encompassing coursework, mid-term assessments, and a winter break. The spring semester typically starts in mid-January and concludes in late May or early June, often followed by final exams and a summer break. This structure aligns with the French higher education system and includes breaks for national holidays and a notable summer recess, allowing students time for internships or research projects.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 (approximate, pending official confirmation), marking the beginning of classes for most programs.
• Mid-Term Break (Toussaint Holiday): Late October to early November 2025 (typically around October 25–November 2), coinciding with All Saints’ Day.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025–January 4, 2026 (approximate), covering Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (approximate), resuming classes and coursework.
• Final Exams Period: Late May to mid-June 2026, varying by program and faculty.
• Summer Break: Mid-June to late August 2026, providing an extended period for rest or professional development.

• Application Opening for Undergraduate Programs: January 15, 2025 (approximate), often through the Parcoursup platform for French and EU students.
• Regular Decision Deadline: March 15, 2025 (approximate), for most undergraduate programs, with specific deadlines for international students via Campus France procedures.
• Decision Notification: May–June 2025, with rolling responses based on program and applicant status.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: July 15, 2025 (approximate), requiring accepted students to confirm their spot and submit necessary documentation.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: May 31, 2025 (approximate), for French government grants or university-specific aid, if applicable.

The academic calendar at Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1 aligns closely with national norms in France, adhering to the semester system and incorporating breaks for major public holidays such as Toussaint and Christmas. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, though the latter should note the importance of early application through Campus France for visa processing. Additionally, the extended summer break provides flexibility for research or internships, which is particularly beneficial for students in science and technology programs, areas in which Lyon 1 specializes. While exact dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical French university schedules, students are encouraged to consult official university communications for confirmed timelines.