Ulm Academic Calendar

Universität Ulm, located in Ulm, Germany, 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 mid-February, including a holiday break around Christmas and New Year. The Summer Semester generally starts in mid-April and concludes in late July, with a shorter break in between semesters. This structure aligns with many German universities, allowing for intensive study periods and accommodating research and internship opportunities during breaks. Universität Ulm also incorporates lecture-free periods for exams at the end of each semester, providing students with dedicated time for preparation and assessment.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 – Official start of lectures and academic activities.
• Christmas Break: December 23, 2025 – January 6, 2026 – University closure for holiday celebrations.
• Winter Semester Exams: Mid-February 2026 – Lecture-free period dedicated to examinations.
• Summer Semester Start: April 15, 2026 – Beginning of lectures for the second semester.
• Summer Semester Exams: Late July 2026 – End-of-semester assessments during the lecture-free period.

• Application Deadline for Winter Semester: July 15, 2025 – Deadline for most undergraduate programs, with earlier submission recommended for international students due to visa processing.
• Application Deadline for Summer Semester: January 15, 2026 – Final date for applications to start in the following semester.
• Admission Notification: Late August 2025 (Winter) and late February 2026 (Summer) – Approximate dates for receiving admission decisions.
• Enrollment Deadline: September 15, 2025 (Winter) and March 15, 2026 (Summer) – Final date to confirm enrollment and submit required documents.

The academic calendar at Universität Ulm aligns closely with national norms in Germany, adhering to the semester system common across the region and incorporating breaks that coincide with major public holidays like Christmas and Easter. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, though the application and enrollment timelines may require early planning for non-EU applicants due to additional visa requirements. The university’s scheduling also supports research-intensive periods, particularly during semester breaks, which can be advantageous for students engaged in scientific studies or collaborative projects.