UniSalento Academic Calendar

The University of Salento, located in Lecce, Italy, follows a traditional European academic calendar structured into two main semesters: the fall semester and the spring semester. Typically, the fall semester begins in late September or early October and runs through late January or early February, encompassing lecture periods, mid-term assessments, and a winter break. The spring semester usually starts in late February or early March and concludes in late June or early July, followed by summer exams and a break. A notable feature of the University of Salento’s calendar is its alignment with Italian public holidays and cultural events, often incorporating extended breaks around Christmas, Easter, and national celebrations, providing students with opportunities to engage in regional traditions.

• Fall Semester Start: Late September 2025 (typically around September 29) - Lectures and academic activities commence.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 20 to January 6) - Includes Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Fall Semester Exams: Late January to mid-February 2026 - Assessment period for fall courses.
• Spring Semester Start: Late February 2026 (around February 23) - Second semester lectures begin.
• Easter Break: Early to mid-April 2026 (aligned with Easter holidays) - Short break for cultural and religious observances.
• Spring Semester Exams: June to early July 2026 - Final assessments and graduation ceremonies for some programs.
• Summer Break: Mid-July to late September 2026 - Extended break with optional summer sessions or internships.

• Application Opening for Undergraduate Programs: Early March 2025 - Start of applications for the 2025–2026 academic year (Class of 2030).
• Early Application Deadline (International Students): Mid-May 2025 (approximately May 15) - Recommended for non-EU students requiring visas, with notifications by late June.
• Regular Application Deadline: Late July 2025 (around July 31) - Final deadline for most undergraduate programs, including EU students.
• Admission Test Dates (if applicable): Early September 2025 - For programs requiring entrance exams, such as medicine or engineering.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: Mid-September 2025 - Accepted students must confirm enrollment and submit final documents.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: Early October 2025 - For scholarships and regional funding opportunities, often tied to enrollment.

The University of Salento’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms in Italy, adhering to the Bologna Process framework for higher education in Europe. Its semester structure and holiday breaks reflect regional cultural priorities, such as extended closures during Christmas and Easter, which may be particularly appealing to international students seeking an immersive cultural experience. Additionally, the university offers some flexibility with exam rescheduling and summer sessions, catering to diverse student needs. However, prospective students should note that specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical Italian university schedules, as official calendars may not yet be published. Applicants are encouraged to monitor updates directly from the university for the most accurate information.