French Academic Calendar 2026: Start Dates, Holidays & Semester Timeline
The academic year in France typically starts in early September and ends in late June (universities) or early July (schools). It is divided into two semesters, with major breaks in December (winter) and April (spring).
Mbbs 29 Apr, 2026
When Does School Start and End in France?
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School starts in France: Early September
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School ends in France: Late June to Early July
University dates:
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Start: Early September
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End: Late May to June
French Academic Calendar Overview (2026)
The academic year in France follows a structured system designed for both schools and universities.
Key Structure:
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Two semesters
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Multiple holiday breaks
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Final exams at end of each semester
French University Semester Dates
Semester Breakdown:
| Semester | Duration | Key Activities |
| Semester 1 | September – December | Classes + Exams |
| Semester 2 | January – May/June | Classes + Final Exams |
Exams:
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December (Semester 1)
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May–June (Semester 2)
France School Year Dates (Primary & Secondary)
| Event | Timeline |
| Start of School Year | Early September |
| Winter Break | Late Dec – Early Jan |
| Spring Break | April |
| End of School Year | Early July |
Month-by-Month Academic Calendar in France
September
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Academic year begins
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Orientation + classes start
October – November
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Regular classes
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Mid-term assessments
December
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Semester 1 exams
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Winter holidays
January
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Semester 2 begins
February – March
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Coursework continues
April
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Spring break (2 weeks)
May – June
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Final exams
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Academic year ends
July – August
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Summer holidays
How Long Is the Academic Year in France?
Direct Answer:
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Schools: ~10 months
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Universities: ~9–10 months
French University Holidays & Breaks
| Break | Duration | Timing |
| Winter Break | 2 weeks | Dec–Jan |
| Spring Break | 2 weeks | April |
| Summer Break | 2 months | July–August |
Academic Deadlines in France
Key Deadlines:
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Exams → End of each semester
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Assignments → Throughout semester
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Scholarships → March–April
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Internships → April–May
Important Public Holidays in France
Some major holidays in France:
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Bastille Day – July 14
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All Saints' Day – November 1
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Christmas – December 25
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Labour Day – May 1
French Academic Calendar for International Students
What You Must Know:
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Orientation happens in early September
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Semester system differs from some countries
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Deadlines are strict and decentralize
How to Plan Your Studies Using the French Calendar
Smart Strategy:
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Track semester start dates
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Prepare for December & May exams
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Use breaks for internships/travel
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Apply for scholarships early
Common Mistakes Students Make
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Ignoring regional date variations
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Missing scholarship deadlines
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Misunderstanding semester system
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Not planning around holidays
Summary Table: Key Dates at a Glance
| Event | Timeline |
| Academic Year Start | Early September |
| Semester 1 Exams | December |
| Semester 2 Start | January |
| Spring Break | April |
| Final Exams | May–June |
| Academic Year End | June–July |