UNIRI Academic Calendar

The University of Rijeka, located in Croatia, follows a standard European academic calendar structured into two main semesters: the fall semester and the spring semester. The fall semester typically begins in early October and runs through late January, encompassing lectures, exams, and a winter break. The spring semester generally starts in late February or early March and concludes in late June, with a summer break extending through July and August. This structure aligns with many European universities, allowing for a balance between academic instruction and seasonal holidays. A notable feature of the University of Rijeka’s calendar is its incorporation of extended breaks around major Croatian holidays, such as Christmas and Easter, providing students with ample time for rest and cultural engagement.

• Fall Semester Start: October 1, 2025 (lectures and coursework begin for most programs).
• Winter Break: December 24, 2025 – January 6, 2026 (includes Christmas and New Year holidays).
• Fall Semester Exams: Late January 2026 (specific dates vary by faculty).
• Spring Semester Start: February 24, 2026 (lectures resume after winter exam period).
• Easter Break: Mid-April 2026 (typically a week-long break aligned with national holidays).
• Spring Semester Exams: June 15 – June 30, 2026 (end-of-year assessments).
• Summer Break: July 1 – September 30, 2026 (extended break with optional summer courses or internships).

• Application Period Opens: February 1, 2025 (start of applications for the 2025–2026 academic year).
• Early Application Deadline: May 15, 2025 (recommended for international students needing visa processing).
• Regular Application Deadline: July 1, 2025 (final date for most undergraduate programs).
• Admission Decisions Released: Mid-July to early August 2025 (notifications sent on a rolling basis).
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: August 15, 2025 (deadline to accept offers and submit required documents).
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: June 30, 2025 (for scholarships or grants, if applicable).

The academic calendar at the University of Rijeka aligns closely with regional norms in Croatia and broader European standards, particularly in its semester structure and holiday scheduling around Christmas and Easter, which are significant national observances. This alignment facilitates coordination with other institutions for student exchanges and collaborative programs. For international students, the calendar offers flexibility with extended summer breaks, allowing time for travel or internships, though early application deadlines are critical due to visa processing times. Additionally, the university’s scheduling often accommodates research-intensive periods during the summer for certain programs, making it a dynamic environment for both local and global students. Note that specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical Croatian university calendars, as exact schedules may not yet be publicly available.