Vaganova Academic Calendar

The Vaganova Academy of Russian Ballet, located in Saint Petersburg, Russia, follows a structured academic calendar tailored to the rigorous demands of ballet training and education. The academy typically operates on a two-semester system, with the fall semester beginning in early September and concluding in late December, followed by the spring semester from mid-February to late June. This schedule includes extended winter and summer breaks to accommodate intensive training schedules, performance commitments, and recovery periods essential for dancers. Unique to the academy, the calendar often integrates performance seasons and international competitions, which may slightly adjust term dates or include additional short breaks for major events.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 – Classes and training commence for all students.
• Winter Break: December 25, 2025 – January 10, 2026 – A longer break aligning with Russian New Year and Orthodox Christmas celebrations.
• Spring Semester Start: February 15, 2026 – Return to academic and practical training sessions.
• End-of-Year Examinations: June 1 – June 15, 2026 – Final assessments and performance evaluations.
• Summer Break: June 20 – August 31, 2026 – Extended break for rest, summer intensives, or international engagements.

• Application Opening: October 1, 2024 – Applications for the Class of 2030 become available for prospective students.
• Early Audition Deadline: January 15, 2025 – Early consideration for highly competitive spots; notifications by mid-February.
• Regular Audition Deadline: March 1, 2025 – Final deadline for undergraduate admissions; includes in-person or video auditions.
• Decision Notification: April 15, 2025 – Most applicants receive admission decisions by this date.
• Enrollment Confirmation: May 1, 2025 – Deadline to accept offers and submit deposits; special considerations for international students regarding visa processing.

The academic calendar of the Vaganova Academy aligns closely with Russian national holidays, such as the extended winter break for New Year and Orthodox Christmas, reflecting cultural norms. Its scheduling offers some flexibility for international students, with long breaks providing opportunities to travel or participate in global ballet events. However, the intensive nature of the program and performance commitments may require additional planning for non-local students. Specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical Russian university calendars and ballet academy practices, as exact details are not publicly available at this time.