Orléans Academic Calendar

The Université d'Orléans, located in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France, follows a traditional European academic calendar structured into two main semesters: the fall semester and the spring semester. The fall semester typically begins in early September and runs through mid-December, while the spring semester starts in mid-January and concludes in late May or early June. This structure includes breaks for major holidays such as Christmas and Easter, as well as a summer break from June to August. A notable feature of the university’s calendar is its alignment with the French national education system, which often incorporates shorter mid-term breaks in October, February, and April, providing students with periodic rest during intensive study periods.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 (first week of classes for most programs; orientation for new students often precedes this date).
• Autumn Break: October 25–November 2, 2025 (a one-week break aligned with the French Toussaint holiday).
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025–January 4, 2026 (extended holiday period with campus closure).
• Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (classes resume after the winter break).
• Easter Break: April 4–April 19, 2026 (two-week break aligned with national holidays).
• Final Exams and Commencement: Late May to early June 2026 (specific dates vary by program; graduation ceremonies often held in June).

• Application Opening for Undergraduate Programs: January 15, 2025 (start of the application period via Parcoursup, the French national admissions platform).
• Regular Decision Deadline: March 15, 2025 (final date to submit applications for most programs; late submissions may not be considered).
• Admission Decisions Released: Mid-May to early June 2025 (notifications sent in phases based on program and applicant pool).
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: July 15, 2025 (accepted students must confirm their spot and pay initial fees).
• International Student Application Deadline: December 15, 2024 (earlier deadline for non-EU students requiring visas; additional documentation may be needed).

The academic calendar at Université d'Orléans closely aligns with national norms in France, adhering to the semester system and holiday schedules set by the Ministry of Higher Education. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with breaks that coincide with public holidays like Toussaint and Easter. For international students, the calendar provides ample time during the summer break to handle visa renewals or travel, though early application deadlines are critical due to additional processing times. While specific 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 as they become available.