VUB Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), located in Brussels, Belgium, follows a standard European semester system. The academic year is typically divided into two main semesters: the first semester runs from late September to late January, and the second semester spans from mid-February to late June. This structure includes designated periods for lectures, exams, and breaks, aligning with many other universities in the region. A notable feature of VUB’s calendar is its inclusion of resit exam periods in late August or early September, offering students a chance to retake exams before the new academic year begins. Holidays and breaks, such as Christmas and Easter, are also integrated into the schedule, providing extended time for rest and research.

• First Semester Start: Late September 2025 (typically around September 22–25) – Classes begin for all students.
• Christmas Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 20–January 5) – University closure for the holidays.
• First Semester Exams: Mid-to-late January 2026 (typically January 15–31) – Assessment period for fall courses.
• Second Semester Start: Mid-February 2026 (around February 10–15) – Spring term begins.
• Easter Break: Early April 2026 (approximately April 3–10) – Short break aligned with national holidays.
• Second Semester Exams: Late May to late June 2026 (typically May 25–June 30) – Final assessments and project submissions.
• Resit Exams: Late August to early September 2026 (around August 20–September 5) – Opportunity for retakes before the new year.

• Application Opening: October 1, 2024 – Start of applications for the 2025–2026 academic year.
• Early Application Deadline: February 1, 2025 – Recommended for international students needing visa processing time.
• Regular Application Deadline: April 1, 2025 – Final date for most undergraduate programs; late applications may be considered on a case-by-case basis.
• Admission Decisions Released: May to June 2025 – Notifications typically sent on a rolling basis, depending on program and applicant category.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: July 1, 2025 – Deadline to accept offers and pay enrollment fees.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 15, 2025 – Recommended date for scholarship or funding applications, especially for international students.

The academic calendar at Vrije Universiteit Brussel aligns closely with Belgian and broader European academic norms, particularly in its semester structure and integration of national holidays like Christmas and Easter. This alignment offers predictability for both local and international students, facilitating travel and family planning. Additionally, the resit exam period in late summer provides flexibility, especially for students balancing academic challenges with other commitments. For international applicants, the early application deadline ensures ample time for visa processing and relocation, reflecting VUB’s commitment to accessibility. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on typical cycles, students are encouraged to check the university’s official announcements for confirmed schedules.