VMA Academic Calendar

Volgograd Medical Academy, located in Volgograd, Russia, follows a structured academic calendar typical of many Russian universities, particularly those specializing in medical education. The academic year is generally divided into two main semesters: the fall semester and the spring semester. The fall semester typically begins in early September and runs through late December or early January, while the spring semester starts in early February and concludes in late June. This structure allows for an extended winter break aligning with national holidays, as well as a summer break for research, internships, or clinical rotations, which are crucial for medical students. Unique to medical institutions like Volgograd Medical Academy, the calendar may include intensive practical training periods or modular terms for clinical studies, often extending into the summer months.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 – Classes commence for all students, often preceded by an orientation week.
• Winter Break: December 30, 2025, to January 10, 2026 – Coincides with New Year and Orthodox Christmas holidays.
• Spring Semester Start: February 7, 2026 – Resumption of classes after the winter break.
• Final Exams Period: Late May to mid-June 2026 – Includes theoretical and practical assessments for medical students.
• Summer Break/Clinical Rotations: Late June to late August 2026 – Time for rest or mandatory clinical training for upper-year students.

• Application Opening Date: January 15, 2025 – Applications for undergraduate programs, including international student admissions, typically begin.
• Early Admission Deadline: April 30, 2025 – Priority deadline for international applicants requiring visa processing.
• Regular Admission Deadline: June 30, 2025 – Final deadline for most undergraduate programs, including the Class of 2030.
• Admission Decision Notification: Mid-July to early August 2025 – Applicants are informed of acceptance, often with visa and enrollment instructions for international students.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: August 15, 2025 – Accepted students must confirm their intent to enroll and submit necessary documentation.

The academic calendar at Volgograd Medical Academy aligns closely with national norms in Russia, where the two-semester system and extended winter break reflect cultural and climatic considerations, such as the harsh winter months. For international students, the calendar offers some flexibility, with early admission deadlines accommodating visa processing and travel arrangements. Additionally, the emphasis on clinical rotations during summer months highlights the university’s focus on practical training, a critical component of medical education. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical Russian university schedules, prospective students are encouraged to verify exact timelines through official university communications for the most accurate information.