UT Academic Calendar

The University of Tartu, located in Estonia, follows a structured academic calendar based on a two-semester system, typical of many European universities. The academic year generally begins in early September with the fall semester, running through December, and resumes with the spring semester from late January or early February until late May or early June. This structure includes designated periods for examinations at the end of each semester, as well as breaks for holidays such as Christmas and Easter. A notable feature of the University of Tartu’s calendar is its alignment with national holidays and cultural events, providing students with extended breaks during significant periods like the Estonian Independence Day in February.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 (orientation for new students typically held in late August).
• Christmas Break: December 20, 2025 – January 5, 2026 (includes Christmas and New Year holidays).
• Fall Semester Exams: January 6 – January 24, 2026 (exact dates may vary by program).
• Spring Semester Start: February 2, 2026 (following a short winter break).
• Easter Break: April 10 – April 13, 2026 (aligned with national holidays).
• Spring Semester Exams: May 25 – June 12, 2026 (culminating in graduation ceremonies for many programs).

• Application Period Opens: January 2, 2025 (for the 2025–2026 academic year, Class of 2030).
• Early Application Deadline: March 15, 2025 (recommended for international students requiring visas).
• Regular Application Deadline: April 15, 2025 (final deadline for most undergraduate programs).
• Admission Decisions Released: May 15 – June 15, 2025 (notifications sent on a rolling basis).
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: July 15, 2025 (including deposit payment and document submission).

The University of Tartu’s academic calendar aligns closely with regional norms in Northern Europe, where semesters are structured to accommodate long winter breaks and national holidays like Christmas and Easter. This scheduling offers flexibility for international students, allowing time for travel or visa processing during extended breaks. Additionally, the university’s emphasis on aligning key dates with Estonian cultural events fosters a unique academic environment, though students are encouraged to plan around early application deadlines and exam periods, which may differ slightly by faculty or program. Specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, as official calendars may not yet be published.