Leipzig Academic Calendar

Universität Leipzig, one of Germany’s oldest universities, follows a traditional European academic calendar divided into two main semesters: the Winter Semester and the Summer Semester. The Winter Semester typically begins in early October and runs through late March, with a significant break around Christmas and New Year. The Summer Semester usually starts in early April and concludes in late September, including a longer summer break from mid-July to late September. This structure aligns with many German universities, allowing for intensive study periods and extended breaks for research or internships. A unique feature of Universität Leipzig’s calendar is its integration of lecture-free periods, which provide students with time for self-study, exams, or project work outside formal class schedules.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Official start of lectures, preceded by orientation week for new students.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – University closure for the holiday season.
• Winter Semester Exams: February 10 – March 15, 2026 – Main examination period for the semester.
• Summer Semester Start: April 1, 2026 – Lectures begin, with introductory events for continuing students.
• Summer Break: July 15 – September 30, 2026 – Lecture-free period, often used for internships or research.

• Application Period for Winter Semester: May 1 – July 15, 2025 – Deadline for most undergraduate programs, with earlier cutoffs for restricted-admission courses.
• Application Period for Summer Semester: November 1 – December 15, 2025 – For programs starting in April 2026, particularly for transfer or international students.
• Admission Notifications: August 2025 (Winter) and January 2026 (Summer) – Approximate dates for decision releases, varying by program.
• Enrollment Deadline: September 15, 2025 (Winter) and March 15, 2026 (Summer) – Final date to confirm acceptance and pay fees, with special considerations for international applicants requiring visas.

The academic calendar at Universität Leipzig aligns closely with national norms in Germany, adhering to the standard semester system observed across most public universities. Key holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, are integrated into breaks, ensuring cultural and regional consistency. For international students, the extended lecture-free periods offer flexibility for travel or additional academic pursuits, though visa processing and enrollment deadlines require early planning. Additionally, the university’s scheduling accommodates research-intensive periods, particularly during the summer break, reflecting its strong emphasis on academic innovation and independent study.