UI Academic Calendar

The University of Iceland, located in Reykjavík, follows a traditional academic calendar divided into two main semesters: autumn and spring. The autumn semester typically begins in late August or early September and runs through mid-December, while the spring semester starts in early January and concludes in late May or early June. This structure includes periods for teaching, examinations, and breaks, aligning with many European universities. A notable feature of the calendar is the inclusion of a short break in October during the autumn semester and an extended winter break over the Christmas and New Year holidays, reflecting Iceland’s cultural emphasis on seasonal celebrations.

• Autumn Semester Start: Late August 2025 (typically around August 25–30); includes orientation for new students.
• October Break: Mid-October 2025 (approximately October 15–20); a short pause in teaching activities.
• Autumn Exams: Early to mid-December 2025 (around December 5–15); end-of-semester assessments.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 15–January 5); includes Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Spring Semester Start: Early January 2026 (around January 7–10); resumption of classes.
• Spring Exams: Mid-May to early June 2026 (approximately May 15–June 5); final assessments.
• Commencement: Mid-June 2026 (typically around June 10–15); graduation ceremonies for completing students.

• Application Opening: Early December 2024 (around December 1); start of undergraduate admissions for the 2025–2026 cycle.
• Regular Decision Deadline: Early February 2025 (approximately February 1); primary deadline for most applicants, including international students.
• International Student Deadline: Early February 2025 (same as regular decision, around February 1); additional documentation may be required for visa processing.
• Decision Notification: Late March to early April 2025 (around March 15–April 1); applicants informed of admission status.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: Mid-May 2025 (approximately May 15); deadline to accept offers and pay deposits.

The University of Iceland’s academic calendar aligns closely with other Nordic and European institutions, particularly in its semester structure and observance of major holidays like Christmas, which influences the extended winter break. This scheduling offers flexibility for international students, as the autumn start allows ample time for visa processing and relocation. Additionally, the university’s calendar accommodates Iceland’s unique seasonal patterns, with shorter daylight hours in winter potentially influencing exam and teaching schedules. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, prospective students and current enrollees are encouraged to consult official university resources for the most accurate and updated information.