The dates for bridging courses, Examinations and other events may vary depending on the faculty.
Please therefore check your faculty’s website for the dates that apply to you.
Lecture periods at universities are set by the Ministry of Culture and Science of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia and apply throughout the state. They are organised as follows:
| Semester | Semester dates | Lecture periods | Introductory session | Lecture-free periods |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer semester 2026 | 1 March 2026–31 August 2026 | 6 April 2026–31 July 2026 | 27 March 2026 | 2 March 2026–7 April 2026; 1 May 2026; 14 May 2026; 22 May 2026–26 May 2026; 4 June 2026; 3 August 2026–31 August 2026 |
| Winter semester 2026/27 | 1 September 2026–28 February 2027 | 28 September 2026–12 February 2027 | 28 September 2026–2 October 2026 | 1 September 2026–2509.2026; 21.12.2026–01.01.2027; 15.02.2027–26.02.2027 |
Please note the examination and registration dates for your faculty. You can find further information here.
You can find the latest information on the introductory sessions here.
Here you will find an overview of dates and deadlines for applications and changes of degree programme.
| Applications | Summer semester | Winter semester |
|---|---|---|
| First semester of study – Bachelor’s programmes with open admission | - | 15 July |
| First semester of study – Bachelor’s programmes with restricted admission | - | 15 July |
| First semester of study – Master’s programmes | 15 January | 15 July |
| Entry into a higher Semester of study (open admission) | 15 Jan. | 15 Jul. |
| Entry into a higher Semester of study (restricted admission) | 15 Mar. | 15 Sep. |
| Auditor status | 15 Jan. | 15 Jul. |