UPF Academic Calendar

Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), located in Barcelona, Spain, operates on a trimester system for its academic calendar, which is common among many European universities. The academic year typically runs from September to June, divided into three terms: autumn, winter, and spring. Each trimester lasts approximately 10-12 weeks, with breaks between terms, including a notable winter holiday period in December and January. UPF’s calendar also incorporates public holidays specific to Catalonia and Spain, such as Christmas and Easter breaks, alongside shorter breaks for regional celebrations. This structure allows for intensive study periods and aligns with the European Higher Education Area framework, facilitating student mobility through programs like Erasmus.

• Autumn Trimester Start: Early September 2025 (typically around September 8-10) – Classes begin for most undergraduate programs.
• Autumn Trimester End: Mid-December 2025 (around December 15-20) – Includes final exams for the term.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to Early January 2026 (December 20 to January 7) – Covers Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Winter Trimester Start: Mid-January 2026 (around January 10-15) – Second term begins.
• Spring Trimester Start: Early April 2026 (around April 1-5) – Final term of the academic year, post-Easter break.
• Academic Year End: Late June 2026 (around June 20-30) – Includes final exams and commencement ceremonies for graduating students.

• Application Opening for Undergraduate Admissions: Late October 2024 (typically around October 20-25) – Start of applications for the 2025-2026 cycle (Class of 2030).
• Early Admission Deadline: Mid-January 2025 (around January 15) – For priority consideration, especially for competitive programs.
• Regular Admission Deadline: Early April 2025 (around April 1-5) – Final deadline for most undergraduate programs.
• Decision Notifications: May to June 2025 – Applicants are typically informed of decisions during this period.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: Late June 2025 (around June 20-30) – Deadline to accept offers and pay enrollment fees, with special considerations for international students regarding visa processing.

The academic calendar at Universitat Pompeu Fabra aligns closely with regional and national norms in Spain, incorporating significant breaks for cultural and religious holidays such as Christmas, Easter, and local Catalan festivities. This structure offers flexibility for international students, particularly those participating in exchange programs, as it adheres to the broader European academic timeline. However, prospective students should note that exact dates for academic terms and admissions deadlines may vary slightly year to year, and they are encouraged to check the university’s official announcements for the most current information. UPF’s trimester system also supports a dynamic learning environment, balancing coursework with opportunities for research and internships, especially during the summer period.