Academic calendar
Academic year
2 semesters
The academic year is divided into 2 semesters.
This means that a part of the courses of a study programme is completed by the end of December, followed by examinations.
Examinations
This way the 1st examination period is spread over 2 months, January and June.
A course must be completed before an exam can take place.
However, some courses can not be taught during 1 semester, i.e. the full-year course units. Examinations for these courses take place in June.
At the end of August / beginning of September a 2nd examination period is organised. Students can use this period to retake (failed) courses from the 1st as well as the 2nd semester.
Examinations can be oral or written.
Marks received for practical exercises and the results of written and oral tests during the year may also be taken into account for the final result, as part of a system of permanent evaluation.
For each course unit the evaluation/examination method is indicated (in the course catalogue), as well as what the minimum requirements are to be awarded credit points.
More information
Education and Examination Code
Key dates
Every year the key dates for the following academic year are approved by the Board of Governors and made public.
This includes the holidays and days on which the university is closed and lessons are suspended. For example, the university services are closed during the Ghent Festival ('Gentse Feesten'). Also, many UGent staff take their yearly holiday during the months of July and August.
For specific course details, consult your class schedule/ time table via the faculty website.
Additional information
- Remember there are deadlines for applying at Ghent University.
- Every year the central and faculty services organise Welcome Days for International Students at the end of September and at the beginning of February.