HSG Academic Calendar

The University of St. Gallen, located in Switzerland, follows a structured academic calendar based on a semester system, typical of many European universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the Fall Semester, which generally begins in mid-September and runs through late December, and the Spring Semester, starting in mid-February and concluding in late May or early June. A notable feature of the university’s calendar is its alignment with the European academic framework, incorporating breaks for major holidays and offering intensive periods for examinations at the end of each semester. This structure allows for a balance between coursework, research, and personal time, catering to both domestic and international students.

• Fall Semester Start: September 15, 2025 (orientation and classes begin; includes welcome events for new students).
• Autumn Break: October 20–24, 2025 (a short mid-semester break for students to recharge).
• Winter Break: December 22, 2025–January 4, 2026 (holiday period covering Christmas and New Year).
• Fall Semester Exams: January 12–30, 2026 (assessment period before the semester break).
• Spring Semester Start: February 16, 2026 (classes resume after the inter-semester break).
• Easter Break: April 3–10, 2026 (aligned with national holidays in Switzerland).
• Spring Semester Exams: May 25–June 12, 2026 (end-of-year assessments).
• Commencement Ceremony: Late June 2026 (specific date to be confirmed; celebration for graduating students).

• Application Opening: October 1, 2024 (start of the application period for the 2025–2026 academic year).
• Early Application Deadline: January 31, 2025 (recommended for international students needing visa processing time).
• Regular Application Deadline: April 30, 2025 (final deadline for most undergraduate programs).
• Admission Decisions Released: May–June 2025 (notifications sent on a rolling basis; exact dates vary by program).
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: July 15, 2025 (deadline to accept offers and submit required documents).
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: June 30, 2025 (for scholarships and funding; limited availability for international applicants).

The academic calendar at the University of St. Gallen aligns closely with Swiss and broader European norms, incorporating breaks for national holidays such as Christmas and Easter, which facilitates planning for both local and international students. The semester structure offers flexibility, with ample time between terms for travel or internships, particularly beneficial for the university’s diverse student body. Additionally, the admissions timeline is designed to accommodate international applicants, with early deadlines ensuring sufficient time for visa applications and relocation. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, prospective students are encouraged to verify exact schedules through official university communications as they become available.