University of Rostock Academic Calendar

The University of Rostock, located in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, 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 until mid-February, including a break for the Christmas and New Year holidays. The Summer Semester generally starts in early April and concludes in mid-July, with a short break around Pentecost. This structure aligns with many German universities, offering a balance between lecture periods and examination phases, as well as providing ample time for research and internships during semester breaks.

• Winter Semester Start: October 1, 2025 - Official start of lectures, with orientation events for new students in late September.
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 - January 6, 2026 - University closure for holiday celebrations.
• Winter Semester Exams: February 1 - February 15, 2026 - Examination period before the semester break.
• Summer Semester Start: April 1, 2026 - Lectures begin, with introductory sessions for continuing students.
• Summer Semester Exams: July 1 - July 15, 2026 - Final exams and project submissions.

• Application Period Start for Winter Semester: May 1, 2025 - Initial opening for undergraduate applications, especially for international students requiring visas.
• Regular Decision Deadline: July 15, 2025 - Final date for most undergraduate programs for the Winter Semester start.
• Admission Notification: August 15 - August 31, 2025 - Decisions typically released during this period.
• Application Deadline for Summer Semester: January 15, 2026 - Deadline for programs starting in April, with earlier deadlines for restricted-admission courses.

The academic calendar at the University of Rostock aligns closely with national norms in Germany, adhering to the semester structure common across the country and incorporating public holidays such as Christmas and Easter into its breaks. This scheduling offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating planning for travel and visa processes. Additionally, the extended breaks between semesters provide flexibility for internships, research, or personal commitments, which is particularly beneficial for students balancing academic and professional goals. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical German university timelines, prospective students are encouraged to check the university’s official announcements for confirmed schedules.