
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has officially announced the start dates for the 2025-2026 academic year, providing clarity for incoming first-year university students and returning cohorts across the country.
Classes for the new academic year are set to commence on Saturday, September 20, 2025.
The academic calendar is structured around two semesters.
The first semester will run from September 20, 2025, until Thursday, January 1, 2026.
Midterm examinations are scheduled within the first three weeks of November, varying by faculty, while the semester’s final examinations will take place from Saturday, January 3, to Thursday, January 22, 2026.
A mid-year break will follow, beginning on Saturday, January 24, and concluding on Thursday, February 5, 2026.
The second semester will start on Saturday, February 7, 2026, and continue for fifteen weeks, with midterm exams conducted in the first three weeks of April according to each college’s timetable.
The second semester will conclude on Thursday, May 21, 2026, with final examinations scheduled across May and June 2026.
“The academic calendar has been designed to ensure a smooth and structured progression for students while accommodating necessary breaks and examination periods,” said a ministry spokesperson.
The detailed roadmap for the academic year highlights key dates for students to plan their studies and personal schedules. Universities are expected to adhere closely to these timelines, ensuring consistency across faculties and disciplines.
First-year students, in particular, are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the semester schedules and examination windows to facilitate a seamless transition into university life.
The ministry also emphasized the importance of early preparation and engagement in academic activities to maximize the benefits of the structured learning calendar.
With the announcement, universities nationwide are finalizing logistics to welcome students back to campuses, while implementing academic programs that reflect the evolving educational standards of Egypt’s higher education system.