The University of Peshawar (UOP) has officially announced winter vacations for the academic session 2025–26, providing important clarity for students, faculty members, and administrative staff.
According to an official notification issued by the university administration, winter holidays will be observed from December 22, 2025, to January 3, 2026. During this period, the university campus will remain closed for regular academic and administrative activities.
However, the university has clearly stated that all scheduled examinations and tests will continue as planned, and students must strictly follow the existing academic and examination timetable.
Official Winter Vacation Schedule
As per the notification released by the University of Peshawar, the winter vacation schedule is as follows:
- Winter vacations start: December 22, 2025
- Winter vacations end: January 3, 2026
- University reopening date: January 3, 2026
All teaching departments and administrative offices will remain closed during the vacation period, except for activities related to examinations and essential academic matters.
Exams Will Continue Without Any Change
One of the most important points highlighted by UOP is that winter vacations will not affect the examination schedule.
The university has confirmed that:
- Ongoing examinations
- Scheduled mid-term and final exams
- Departmental tests
- Any officially announced assessments
will continue as planned without postponement or rescheduling.
Students have been advised to carefully follow their examination timetables and report to examination centers on time, even during the winter vacation period.
Instructions Issued for Students
The University of Peshawar has issued clear instructions to students to avoid confusion and ensure smooth academic continuity.
Students are advised to:
- Check their exam schedules regularly
- Follow official notifications issued by UOP
- Stay in contact with their respective departments
- Avoid believing unverified information on social media
Students appearing in exams during winter vacations should plan their travel, accommodation, and study schedules accordingly to avoid last-minute issues.
Faculty Members to Continue Exam Duties
While teaching activities will remain suspended during winter vacations, faculty members involved in examinations will continue their responsibilities.
According to university officials:
- Exam invigilation will continue
- Paper checking and evaluation will proceed
- Result preparation activities will remain active
Faculty members have been requested to cooperate fully with the examination branch to ensure timely completion of academic processes.
Administrative Offices Closure Details
All administrative offices at the University of Peshawar will remain closed during winter vacations.
This includes:
- Registrar office
- Admission sections
- Finance and accounts departments
- General administration offices
However, essential staff required for examination-related work may be called upon if necessary. Students are advised to complete important administrative tasks before December 22, 2025.
Purpose of Winter Vacations
University authorities stated that winter vacations are a regular feature of the academic calendar, introduced every year considering seasonal weather conditions and academic planning.
The main objectives of winter vacations include:
- Providing rest and recovery time to students and staff
- Allowing faculty members to prepare for upcoming academic activities
- Managing campus operations during colder weather
- Maintaining academic efficiency and discipline
Officials emphasized that the continuation of exams during vacations ensures that the academic calendar remains on track.
Academic Calendar to Remain on Schedule
The University of Peshawar has reassured students that the decision to continue exams during winter vacations is aimed at avoiding delays in the academic session.
By keeping exams on schedule:
- Results can be announced on time
- Next semester activities can begin as planned
- Academic progression remains smooth
This approach reflects the university’s commitment to maintaining educational standards and timely academic operations.
Student Reaction to the Announcement
Many students have welcomed the announcement of winter vacations, as it allows them to plan their personal and academic activities in advance.
Students believe that early confirmation of holidays helps in:
- Better exam preparation
- Family and travel planning
- Managing workload during the winter season
However, students have also emphasized the importance of receiving timely updates related to examination venues and timings.
Reopening Date and Resumption of Classes
The University of Peshawar has confirmed that regular classes and administrative operations will resume on January 3, 2026.
After reopening:
- Classes will continue according to regular timetables
- Departments may issue updated schedules if required
- Students are expected to attend classes from day one
The university has urged students to return on time to avoid missing important academic activities.
Importance of Following Official Sources
UOP administration has strongly advised students, faculty, and staff to rely only on official university channels for information related to:
- Winter vacations
- Exam schedules
- Reopening dates
- Academic updates
Official sources include university notifications, departmental notice boards, and authorized online platforms. This advisory aims to prevent confusion caused by misinformation.
Weather Conditions and Campus Management
University officials also mentioned that winter vacations help manage campus operations during colder weather conditions in Peshawar and surrounding areas.
Reduced campus activity during extreme cold helps ensure:
- Safety of students and staff
- Efficient use of university resources
- Better planning for maintenance work
Despite the reduced activity, the university remains committed to ensuring that exams are conducted in a safe and organized manner.
Conclusion
The University of Peshawar’s announcement of winter vacations for the 2025–26 academic session brings clarity and reassurance for students, faculty members, and staff. Winter vacations will be observed from December 22, 2025, to January 3, 2026, during which regular academic and administrative activities will remain suspended.
However, the university has clearly stated that all scheduled exams and tests will continue as planned, and students must strictly follow their examination schedules. Regular classes and administrative operations will resume on January 3, 2026.
Students are encouraged to plan responsibly, stay updated through official announcements, and prepare well for their examinations to ensure a smooth academic experience.