Author: eriq elikplim

The UCT Term Dates 2026 and academic calendar schedule include four teaching quarters with scheduled breaks, examination periods, and graduation ceremonies across multiple faculties.

The University of Cape Town (UCT) academic year 2026 begins on Monday, February 16, 2026, with orientation and registration starting from Monday, February 2, 2026.

UCT 2026 Academic Year Overview

The 2026 academic calendar follows a structured four-semester system with 60 teaching days per semester, totaling 240 instructional days across the year. The calendar accommodates public holidays, religious observances, and administrative requirements specific to South African higher education institutions.

Key Academic Dates for 2026

Milestone	Date
Online Registration Opens	Friday, January 2, 2026
Orientation Period	Monday, February 2 – Friday, February 13, 2026
First Teaching Day	Monday, February 16, 2026
Mid-Semester Break	Saturday, March 28 – Sunday, April 5, 2026
Youth Day Holiday	Tuesday, June 16, 2026
Mid-Year Vacation	Tuesday, June 16 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
Heritage Day Holiday	Thursday, September 24, 2026
Final Examination Period	Wednesday, November 4 – Friday, November 20, 2026
Results Release	Friday, December 4, 2026

First Semester UCT Term Dates 2026

The first semester runs from Monday, February 16, 2026, through Friday, June 5, 2026, encompassing 60 teaching days and a mid-semester break.

Teaching Days: February to March 2026

Teaching commences on Monday, February 16, 2026 (Teaching Day 1) and continues through Friday, March 27, 2026 (Teaching Day 30), providing 30 consecutive teaching days before the mid-semester break.

Week	Monday	Friday	Teaching Days
Week 1	February 16	February 20	Days 1-5
Week 2	February 23	February 27	Days 6-10
Week 3	March 2	March 6	Days 11-15
Week 4	March 9	March 13	Days 16-20
Week 5	March 16	March 20	Days 21-25
Week 6	March 23	March 27	Days 26-30

Mid-Semester Break March 2026

The mid-semester break begins on Saturday, March 28, 2026, and concludes on Sunday, April 5, 2026. This nine-day break includes:

• Saturday, March 21, 2026: Human Rights Day (public holiday)
• Friday, March 20, 2026: Eid ul-Fitr
• Friday, April 3, 2026: Good Friday (public holiday)
• Saturday, April 4, 2026: Holy Saturday
• Sunday, April 5, 2026: Easter Sunday
• Monday, April 6, 2026: Family Day (public holiday)

Graduation Ceremonies March 2026

Autumn graduation ceremonies occur during the mid-semester break from Sunday, March 29, through Wednesday, April 1, 2026. Faculty-specific ceremonies accommodate graduating students across all disciplines.

Teaching Days: April to June 2026

Teaching resumes on Tuesday, April 7, 2026 (Teaching Day 31) and continues through Thursday, April 30, 2026 (Teaching Day 47), interrupted by Freedom Day.

Monday, April 27, 2026, is Freedom Day, a South African public holiday, resulting in no scheduled teaching activities.

Friday, May 1, 2026 is Workers’ Day, another public holiday affecting the academic schedule.

Period	Start Date	End Date	Duration
Teaching Days 31-47	Tuesday, April 7	Thursday, April 30	17 days
Teaching Days 48-60	Monday, May 4	Monday, May 18	13 days
Consolidation Period	Thursday, May 21	Wednesday, May 27	5 days
Examination Period	Thursday, May 28	Friday, June 12	12 days
Marking Period	Wednesday, June 17	Friday, June 26	8 days

First Semester Examination Schedule

Examinations begin on Thursday, May 28, 2026 (Exam Day 1) and conclude on Friday, June 12, 2026 (Exam Day 12). The examination period spans 12 days, excluding weekends.

Mid-Year Vacation Period

The mid-year vacation commences on Tuesday, June 16, 2026 (Youth Day public holiday) and extends through Sunday, July 26, 2026, providing 41 days for marking, administrative processes, and student recess.

Second Semester UCT Term Dates 2026

The second semester begins on Monday, July 27, 2026, and concludes with examinations ending on Friday, November 20, 2026.

Teaching Days: July to September 2026

Second semester teaching starts on Monday, July 27, 2026 (Teaching Day 1) and progresses through Sunday, September 13, 2026 (mid-semester break).

Week	Monday	Friday	Teaching Days
Week 1	July 27	July 31	Days 1-5
Week 2	August 3	August 7	Days 6-10
Week 3	August 11	August 14	Days 11-14
Week 4	August 17	August 21	Days 15-19
Week 5	August 24	August 28	Days 20-24
Week 6	August 31	September 4	Days 25-29

Monday, August 10, 2026, is National Women’s Day (observed), creating a three-day weekend for students and staff.

September Mid-Semester Break 2026

The second semester break runs from Saturday, September 5, through Sunday, September 13, 2026, totaling 9 days.

Spring Graduation Ceremonies September 2026

Spring graduation ceremonies occur from Monday, September 7, through Friday, September 11, 2026, during the mid-semester break. Faculty-specific schedules accommodate graduates from Health Sciences, Commerce, Engineering, Law, Humanities, and Science faculties.

Teaching Days: September to October 2026

Teaching resumes on Monday, September 14, 2026 (Teaching Day 30) and continues through Wednesday, October 28, 2026 (Consolidation Day 1).

Thursday, September 24, 2026, is Heritage Day, a South African public holiday.

Period	Start Date	End Date	Duration
Teaching Days 30-43	Monday, September 14	Friday, October 2	14 days
Teaching Days 44-60	Monday, October 5	Tuesday, October 27	17 days
Consolidation Period	Wednesday, October 28	Monday, November 2	5 days

Second Semester Examination Schedule

Final examinations commence on Wednesday, November 4, 2026 (Exam Day 1) and conclude on Friday, November 20, 2026 (Exam Day 13), spanning 13 examination days.

Sunday, November 8, 2026, marks Diwali, accommodating students observing this religious holiday.

Examination Week	Days	Period
Week 1	Days 1-5	November 4-6, 9-10
Week 2	Days 6-10	November 11-13, 16-17
Week 3	Days 11-13	November 18-20

Marking Period and Results Release

Marking occurs from Monday, November 23, through Thursday, December 3, 2026, providing 9 marking days for faculty assessment teams.

Results are released on Friday, December 4, 2026, through the UCT student portal system.

Registration and Orientation Dates for 2026

Online Registration Period

Online registration opens on Friday, January 2, 2026, for returning undergraduate and postgraduate students. The system remains accessible through the orientation period.

Orientation Week Schedule

Orientation and in-person registration occur from Monday, February 2, through Friday, February 13, 2026, providing 10 days for:

• First-year student orientation programs
• Faculty-specific induction sessions
• Registration verification and course selection
• Residence check-in procedures
• Academic advising appointments

Residence Opening Dates

Student residences open on Saturday, January 31, 2026, allowing students to settle before orientation begins.

Registration Deadlines by Faculty

Faculty	Registration Completion Deadline
Commerce	Friday, February 13, 2026
Engineering & Built Environment	Friday, February 13, 2026
Health Sciences	Friday, February 13, 2026
Humanities	Friday, February 13, 2026
Law	Friday, February 13, 2026
Science	Friday, February 13, 2026

Supplementary Examination Dates 2026

January Supplementary Examinations

Supplementary examinations for students requiring additional assessment opportunities occur from Monday, January 12, through Friday, January 16, 2026.

Faculty	Examination Dates
Commerce	Tuesday, January 13 – Friday, January 16
Engineering & Built Environment	Tuesday, January 13 – Friday, January 16
Health Sciences	Monday, January 12 – Friday, January 16
Humanities	Monday, January 12 – Friday, January 16
Law	Thursday, January 15
Science	Thursday, January 15 – Friday, January 16

Results from January supplementary examinations are released on Friday, January 23, 2026.

Mid-Year Supplementary Examinations

Supplementary examinations for first semester courses occur during the mid-year vacation from Monday, July 20, through Friday, July 24, 2026.

Results are released on Friday, July 31, 2026.

Faculty-Specific Academic Dates

Health Sciences Faculty Calendar

The Health Sciences Faculty follows specialized schedules for clinical training rotations and practical examinations:

• Early Start Date: Clinical rotations may commence before general university teaching begins
• Extended Examination Periods: Practical and clinical assessments occur throughout the semester
• Block Teaching System: Some programs operate on intensive block schedules rather than weekly teaching

Commerce Faculty Calendar

The Commerce Faculty, including the Graduate School of Business, maintains:

• Specialized RAC Meetings: Readmission and Appeals Committee meetings occur on specific dates throughout January and February
• GSB Academic Year: The Graduate School of Business operates on a different academic calendar for MBA and specialized master’s programs

Engineering & Built Environment Calendar

Engineering programs include:

• Design Project Deadlines: Specific submission dates for major design projects fall before examination periods
• Industrial Training: Required industrial training occurs during vacation periods for certain programs

Public Holidays Affecting UCT Term Dates 2026

Holiday	Date	Day	Impact
New Year’s Day	Thursday, January 1	Thursday	Before academic year
Human Rights Day	Saturday, March 21	Saturday	Weekend
Good Friday	Friday, April 3	Friday	Mid-semester break
Family Day	Monday, April 6	Monday	Mid-semester break
Freedom Day	Monday, April 27	Monday	No classes
Workers’ Day	Friday, May 1	Friday	No classes
Youth Day	Tuesday, June 16	Tuesday	Vacation begins
National Women’s Day	Sunday, August 9	Sunday	Observed Monday, August 10
Heritage Day	Thursday, September 24	Thursday	No classes
Day of Reconciliation	Wednesday, December 16	Wednesday	Summer term
Christmas Day	Friday, December 25	Friday	Vacation
Day of Goodwill	Saturday, December 26	Saturday	Vacation

Meeting-Free Weeks at UCT in 2026

UCT designates specific weeks as meeting-free periods to allow faculty and students to focus on teaching and learning without administrative interruptions.

First Semester Meeting-Free Week

• Monday, March 2 – Friday, March 6, 2026 (Teaching Days 11-15)

Second Semester Meeting-Free Weeks

• Monday, April 20 – Friday, April 24, 2026 (Teaching Days 40-44)
• Monday, August 11 – Friday, August 14, 2026 (Teaching Days 11-14)
• Monday, September 28 – Friday, October 2, 2026 (Teaching Days 39-43)

Senate and Committee Meeting Dates

Senate Meetings 2026

Meeting	Date	Time
Senate Meeting 1	Friday, February 27, 2026	14:00
Senate Meeting 2	Friday, June 5, 2026	14:00
Senate Meeting 3	Friday, September 18, 2026	14:00
Senate Meeting 4	Friday, November 20, 2026	14:00

Planning Committee Meetings

Planning Committee (PC) meetings occur on Wednesdays throughout the academic year:

• PC01: Wednesday, January 21, 2026
• PC02: Wednesday, February 18, 2026
• PC03: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
• PC04: Wednesday, April 15, 2026
• PC05: Thursday, May 21, 2026
• PC06: Wednesday, June 17, 2026
• PC07: Wednesday, August 19, 2026
• PC08: Wednesday, September 23, 2026
• PC09: Wednesday, October 21, 2026
• PC10: Wednesday, November 25, 2026

UCT Council Meeting Dates 2026

University Council meetings occur on Saturdays:

Meeting	Date
Council Meeting 1	Saturday, March 14, 2026
Council Meeting 2	Saturday, June 13, 2026
Council Meeting 3	Saturday, October 17, 2026
Council Meeting 4	Saturday, December 5, 2026

Summer and Winter Term Schedules

Summer School 2026 (January)

Summer school operates from Monday, January 19, through Saturday, January 31, 2026, offering intensive courses for students requiring additional credits or catching up on coursework.

Winter Term 2026

The winter term runs from Wednesday, June 17, through Friday, July 10, 2026, providing 18 teaching days for specialized short courses and catch-up modules.

Period	Start	End	Days
Winter Term Teaching	Wednesday, June 17	Friday, July 10	18 days
Winter Term Examination	Thursday, July 16	Friday, July 17	2 days
Supplementary Exams	Monday, July 20	Friday, July 24	5 days

Summer Term 2026 (November-December)

The summer term begins on Monday, November 23, 2026, and extends through Friday, December 18, 2026, offering 19 teaching days for:

• Make-up courses
• Intensive language programs
• Professional development modules
• Research methodology courses

Readmission and Appeals Committee Schedules

January RAC Appeals Deadlines

Faculty	Appeals Due Date
Humanities	Monday, January 5, 2026
Health Sciences	Monday, January 5, 2026
Engineering & Built Environment	Monday, January 5, 2026
Law	Monday, January 5, 2026
Science	Monday, January 5, 2026
Commerce	Tuesday, January 6, 2026

RAC Meeting Schedules

RAC meetings occur throughout January and February to process appeals and readmission applications before the academic year begins.

Faculty Executive Committee Meeting Dates

Faculty Executive Committees (FEC) meet regularly to oversee academic programs, curriculum changes, and student progression.

First Semester FEC Meetings

Faculty	Meeting Date	Time
Health Sciences	Monday, January 26, 2026	10:00
Law	Tuesday, January 27, 2026	10:00
Science	Tuesday, January 27, 2026	10:00
Engineering & Built Environment	Tuesday, January 27, 2026	10:00
Humanities	Tuesday, January 27, 2026	09:00
Commerce	Thursday, January 29, 2026	10:00

Important Administrative Deadlines

National Senior Certificate Results

The National Senior Certificate (NSC) results are released on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, affecting conditional admission offers for first-year students.

Fee Payment Deadlines

Students must clear outstanding fees before:

• Registration Completion: Friday, February 13, 2026
• First Semester Examination Entry: Monday, May 18, 2026
• Second Semester Examination Entry: Monday, October 26, 2026
• Graduation Eligibility: Four weeks before the ceremony date

Academic Standing Qualifications

Students must achieve qualifier status by specific dates to continue in their programs:

• Spring Graduation Qualifier Date: Tuesday, July 7, 2026
• Autumn Graduation Qualifier Date: Thursday, December 17, 2026

ICTS Maintenance Schedules

Information and Communication Technology Services (ICTS) conducts scheduled maintenance on select Sundays at 09:00:

• Sunday, January 25, 2026
• Sunday, February 15, 2026
• Sunday, March 15, 2026
• Sunday, April 26, 2026
• Sunday, May 17, 2026
• Sunday, June 28, 2026
• Sunday, July 26, 2026
• Sunday, August 16, 2026
• Sunday, September 13, 2026
• Sunday, October 25, 2026
• Sunday, November 22, 2026
• Sunday, December 13, 2026

Students should anticipate potential disruptions to online systems during these maintenance windows.

Academic Program Variations by Faculty

Postgraduate Programs

Master’s and doctoral programs follow flexible schedules based on research requirements rather than strict teaching term dates. Key postgraduate milestones include:

• Proposal Submission Deadlines: Vary by faculty
• Ethics Approval Timelines: 4-8 weeks from submission
• Thesis Submission Deadlines: Specific to program requirements
• Examination Periods: Scheduled individually

Professional Degrees

Professional degree programs (MBChB, LLB, BArch) may require:

• Extended Academic Years: Some programs extend beyond standard term dates
• Clinical Rotations: Health Sciences students complete rotations during vacation periods
• Practical Training: Law and Architecture students complete required practical work

Distance Education and Flexible Learning

Distance education students follow modified schedules with:

• Assignment Submission Deadlines: Aligned with term dates, but with flexibility
• Online Examination Windows: Extended periods for remote assessment
• Contact Sessions: Scheduled during vacation periods or weekends

Frequently Asked Questions About UCT Term Dates 2026

Planning Your UCT Academic Year 2026

First-Year Student Timeline

Milestone	Date	Action Required
Conditional Offer	December 2025	Accept offer online
NSC Results	Tuesday, January 13, 2026	Verify qualification
Online Registration	January 2-31, 2026	Complete preliminary registration
Residence Move-In	Saturday, January 31, 2026	Check into assigned residence
Orientation	February 2-13, 2026	Attend all sessions
Classes Begin	Monday, February 16, 2026	Attend first lectures

Returning Student Timeline

Milestone	Date	Action Required
Registration Opens	Friday, January 2, 2026	Register for courses online
Course Selection	January 2-31, 2026	Finalize course choices
Fee Payment	Before February 13, 2026	Clear outstanding balances
Residence Return	Saturday, January 31, 2026	Check in if residing on campus
Classes Begin	Monday, February 16, 2026	Resume classes

International Student Considerations

International students should arrive at UCT by Friday, January 30, 2026 to allow time for:

• Study Permit Verification: Immigration documentation processing
• Medical Registration: South African medical aid enrollment
• Banking Setup: Opening local bank accounts
• Orientation Attendance: International student-specific sessions
• Course Registration: Academic advising appointments

Contact Information for Academic Queries

Faculty-Specific Enquiries

Students should direct calendar-related questions to their faculty offices:

• Commerce: commerce-admin@uct.ac.za
• Engineering & Built Environment: ebe-admin@uct.ac.za
• Health Sciences: healthsci-admin@uct.ac.za
• Humanities: humanities-admin@uct.ac.za
• Law: law-admin@uct.ac.za
• Science: science-admin@uct.ac.za

General Academic Enquiries

For general questions about the UCT academic calendar 2026:

• Website: www.uct.ac.za/calendar
• Student Administration: sar@uct.ac.za
• Telephone: +27 21 650 9111

Registration Support

Registration assistance is available through:

• Student Service Centre: Monday-Friday, 08:30-16:30
• Online Support: studentservices@uct.ac.za
• In-Person: Masingene Building, Upper Campus

UCT Academic Calendar 2026 PDF Download

The official UCT Academic Calendar 2026 PDF is available through the university website at uct.ac.za/downloads. The PDF includes:

• Complete term dates for all faculties
• Public holiday schedules
• Examination timetables
• Senate and committee meeting dates
• Graduation ceremony schedules
• Supplementary examination dates

Students should download and save the PDF for offline reference throughout the academic year.

You can also view and download the UCT Health Science Calendar at the UCT Faculty of Health website.

Changes to the Published Calendar

UCT reserves the right to modify published term dates due to:

• Unforeseen Circumstances: Natural disasters, public health emergencies, or civil unrest
• Public Holiday Changes: Government proclamations affecting public holidays
• Operational Requirements: University-wide operational needs

Students receive notification of any calendar changes through:

• Official UCT email addresses
• Vula learning management system announcements
• Faculty office communications
• SMS alerts for urgent changes

Conclusion

The UCT academic calendar 2026 provides a comprehensive framework for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, spanning from Monday, February 16, 2026, through Friday, December 18, 2026. Students should reference this calendar for critical dates, including registration deadlines, teaching periods, examination schedules, and graduation ceremonies.

Faculty-specific variations exist for Health Sciences and specialized programs, requiring students to verify dates with their respective faculty offices. The structured academic year includes 60 teaching days per semester, designated break periods, and public holidays recognized in South Africa. Students must meet registration and fee payment deadlines to maintain good academic standing and eligibility for examinations and graduation.

The UJ academic calendar 2026 runs from Monday, January 5, 2026, when professional support staff return, through Friday, November 27, 2026, when second semester supplementary assessments conclude.

The 2026 academic year consists of two main teaching semesters spanning 14 weeks each, with registration opening Monday, January 12, 2026, and lectures commencing Monday, February 9, 2026.

The University of Johannesburg operates four main campuses—Auckland Park Kingsway Campus, Auckland Park Bunting Road Campus, Doornfontein Campus, and Soweto Campus—serving over 50,000 students across 9 faculties.

The 2026 academic structure follows South Africa’s higher education framework, with specific sessional dates governing registration periods, teaching blocks, assessment windows, and recess intervals.

UJ Academic Calendar 2026: Key Semester Dates and Teaching Periods

The University of Johannesburg 2026 academic year contains 28 teaching weeks divided across first semester (14 weeks) and second semester (14 weeks), with final assessments scheduled from Thursday, May 28, 2026, to Friday, June 19, 2026, for first semester and Thursday, October 22, 2026, to Friday, November 13, 2026, for second semester.

First Semester Teaching Block 2026

First semester teaching at University of Johannesburg begins Monday, February 9, 2026, and continues through Friday, May 22, 2026. This 14-week instructional period includes one mid-semester recess and concludes with a dedicated study period before final assessments commence.

The first semester structure includes:

• Teaching weeks: 14 consecutive weeks from February 9 to May 22
• Mid-semester recess: Friday, March 28, 2026, to Sunday, April 5, 2026 (9 days)
• Study period: Monday, May 23, 2026, to Friday, May 27, 2026 (5 days)
• Final assessments: Thursday, May 28, 2026, to Friday, June 19, 2026 (23 days)
• Total instructional days: Approximately 70 teaching days excluding public holidays

Students must complete all coursework and continuous assessment requirements before the study period begins. The mid-semester recess aligns with South African public school holidays, allowing students to travel home during the Easter period.

Second Semester Teaching Block 2026

Second semester teaching at University of Johannesburg begins Monday, July 13, 2026, and runs through Friday, October 16, 2026. This semester follows an identical 14-week structure to first semester, maintaining consistency in academic delivery across both teaching periods.

The second semester structure includes:

• Teaching weeks: 14 consecutive weeks from July 13 to October 16
• Mid-semester recess: Saturday, August 29, 2026, to Sunday, September 6, 2026 (9 days)
• Study period: Saturday, October 17, 2026, to Wednesday, October 21, 2026 (5 days)
• Final assessments: Thursday, October 22, 2026, to Friday, November 13, 2026 (23 days)
• Total instructional days: Approximately 70 teaching days excluding public holidays

The September mid-semester recess coincides with Heritage Day celebrations on Wednesday, September 24, 2026, with the University observing an additional holiday on Friday, September 25, 2026.

UJ First-Year Orientation 2026: Welcome Week and Mandatory Sessions

University of Johannesburg first-year orientation 2026 runs from Wednesday, January 21, 2026, through Friday, February 13, 2026, combining online pre-orientation sessions, face-to-face campus orientation, and faculty-specific programs to equip new students with essential resources for academic success. Participation in orientation is mandatory for all accepted and registered first-entry students.

Pre-Orientation Online Sessions 2026

Pre-orientation sessions at University of Johannesburg occur from Wednesday, January 21, 2026, through Friday, January 30, 2026, via Microsoft Teams (weekdays only, excluding weekends). The First-Year Experience Office hosts three sessions daily, allowing students to attend multiple sessions based on their schedules.

Orientation Phase	Start Date	End Date	Format	Attendance
Pre-orientation online sessions	Wednesday, January 21, 2026	Friday, January 30, 2026	Microsoft Teams	Optional multiple sessions
Face-to-face campus orientation	Monday, February 2, 2026	Friday, February 6, 2026	On-campus	Mandatory
Faculty orientation programs	Monday, February 9, 2026	Friday, February 13, 2026	Faculty-specific venues	Mandatory

Students access pre-orientation sessions through Microsoft Teams links distributed via email after registration completion. The sessions require a computer, tablet, or smartphone with stable internet connectivity to access materials hosted on Moodle, the University’s Learning Management System.

Face-to-Face Orientation Week Schedule

Face-to-face orientation at University of Johannesburg occurs Monday, February 2, 2026, through Friday, February 6, 2026 on designated campuses. The First-Year Experience Office collaborates with faculties to provide out-of-class experiences introducing students to campus resources, student support services, library systems, and co-curricular opportunities.

During face-to-face orientation week, first-year students:

• Tour campus facilities including libraries, computer laboratories, student centers, and faculty buildings
• Meet academic advisors who explain degree requirements, module selection processes, and academic progression policies
• Access student services such as counseling centers, disability units, writing centers, and career development offices
• Engage with student organizations representing cultural groups, academic societies, sports clubs, and volunteer initiatives
• Complete administrative requirements including student card collection, biometric registration, and campus access activation

The First-Year Experience Office coordinates orientation activities across all four campuses simultaneously, ensuring Auckland Park Kingsway, Auckland Park Bunting Road, Doornfontein, and Soweto campus students receive equivalent orientation experiences.

Faculty-Specific Orientation Programs 2026

Faculty orientation programs at University of Johannesburg run Monday, February 9, 2026, through Friday, February 13, 2026, coinciding with the first week of academic teaching. Each of the 9 faculties hosts tailored programs introducing students to faculty staff, departmental structures, program-specific requirements, and peer networks within their academic disciplines.

Faculty-specific orientation addresses:

• Curriculum structures outlining module sequences, prerequisite requirements, and elective options for degree completion
• Assessment methodologies explaining continuous assessment formats, examination protocols, and academic integrity policies
• Faculty resources including specialized laboratories, research centers, clinical placement sites, and industry partnerships
• Academic staff introductions connecting students with lecturers, tutors, and department administrators
• Student support systems within faculties such as peer mentoring programs, tutoring services, and academic skills workshops

Each faculty publishes detailed orientation schedules specifying daily activities, venues, and attendance requirements. Students access faculty-specific programs through links distributed by the First-Year Experience Office, with separate schedules for the Faculty of Science, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Art Design and Architecture, Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment, Faculty of Health Sciences, Faculty of Humanities, Faculty of Law, and College of Business and Economics programs.

Technical Support for Orientation Activities

The Centre for Academic Technologies provides technical support Monday through Friday from 08:00 to 16:00 during orientation periods for students experiencing difficulties accessing online materials, Microsoft Teams sessions, or Moodle platforms. Students email uhelp@uj.ac.za with their student number and faculty information to receive assistance within 24 hours.

Common orientation technical issues include Microsoft Teams link access failures, Moodle login credential problems, and orientation schedule download errors. The Centre for Academic Technologies resolves 92% of orientation-related technical queries through email support, with complex issues escalated to campus IT help desks.

UJ Registration Dates 2026: Online Enrollment and Walk-In Policy

Online registration for University of Johannesburg 2026 opens Monday, January 12, 2026, and closes Friday, February 6, 2026, for both returning students and first-year students. The University operates a strict no-walk-in policy, requiring all students to complete registration through the uLink student portal system.

Registration Windows by Student Category

Student Category	Registration Opens	Registration Closes	Registration Method
Returning students (2nd-4th year)	Monday, January 12, 2026	Friday, February 6, 2026	uLink online portal
First-year students	Monday, January 12, 2026	Friday, February 6, 2026	uLink online portal
Postgraduate students	Monday, January 12, 2026	Friday, February 6, 2026	uLink online portal
Late enquiry applicants	Tuesday, January 13, 2026, 20:00	Friday, February 6, 2026	Late enquiry portal

The University of Johannesburg enforces a no walk-in registration policy for the 2026 academic year. Students cannot register in person at campus registration offices. All enrollment activities occur exclusively through digital platforms accessed via the uLink student portal at registration.uj.ac.za.

uLink Portal Access Requirements

Students accessing the uLink portal for 2026 registration require:

• Valid student number (9-digit number issued at application)
• Secure password (reset via email if forgotten)
• Academic Progress Schedule (APS) score meeting minimum faculty requirements
• National Senior Certificate results (for first-year students)
• NSFAS approval letter (for students receiving financial aid)
• Proof of payment or registration fee payment confirmation

The University IT division maintains the uLink system with 24-hour uptime during peak registration periods. Students experiencing technical difficulties contact the UJ Contact Centre at 011 559 4555 or access support through the UJ Chatbot available on the official website.

UJ Graduation Ceremonies 2026: Autumn, Winter, and Spring Dates

The University of Johannesburg hosts graduation ceremonies in three seasons during 2026: Autumn graduation from Monday, March 2, 2026, through Friday, June 12, 2026; Winter graduation from Monday, July 14, 2026, through Friday, July 31, 2026; and Spring graduation from Thursday, September 17, 2026, through Wednesday, September 30, 2026. All ceremonies occur at the UJ Auditorium on Auckland Park Kingsway Campus.

Graduation Ceremony Schedule by Season

Graduation Season	Ceremony Dates	Compliance Deadline	Venue
Autumn 2026	Monday, March 2 to Friday, June 12, 2026	Thursday, December 31, 2025	UJ Auditorium, APK Campus
Winter 2026	Monday, July 14 to Friday, July 31, 2026	Tuesday, March 31, 2026	UJ Auditorium, APK Campus
Spring 2026	Thursday, September 17 to Wednesday, September 30, 2026	Thursday, July 31, 2026	UJ Auditorium, APK Campus

Candidates qualify for specific graduation ceremonies based on compliance dates when all degree requirements are met, including final examination completion, dissertation or thesis submission approval, and outstanding fee settlement.

Autumn Graduation 2026 Requirements

Students graduating in Autumn 2026 ceremonies must complete all qualification requirements by Thursday, December 31, 2025. The University emails graduation invitation letters to eligible candidates by Thursday, January 30, 2026, at email addresses registered with UJ Biographics.

Autumn 2026 graduation requirements include:

• All modules passed with minimum required marks for degree conferment
• Outstanding fees settled or payment arrangements finalized with Student Finance offices
• Library fines cleared at least 8 weeks before ceremony dates
• Outstanding documents submitted including research ethics clearances, clinical logbooks, or placement evaluation forms
• Biographical details verified ensuring names on identity documents match University records exactly

Students who complied to graduate by December 31, 2025, but have not received invitation letters by February 7, 2026, contact their faculty administration offices for clarification. The University does not send graduation invitations to students with outstanding academic or financial obligations.

Winter and Spring Graduation 2026 Timelines

Winter 2026 graduation ceremonies accommodate students completing requirements between Monday, January 1, 2026, and Tuesday, March 31, 2026, with ceremonies scheduled from July 14 through July 31, 2026. Spring 2026 ceremonies serve students completing requirements between Wednesday, April 1, 2026, and Thursday, July 31, 2026.

Students completing final examinations during June 2026 assessment periods qualify for Winter graduation if supplementary examination results are released before the March 31 compliance deadline. Students writing November 2026 supplementary assessments typically graduate in Autumn 2027 ceremonies.

Graduation E-Tickets and Guest Allocation

The University of Johannesburg issues one e-ticket per graduate allowing entry for the graduate plus three guests, except doctoral candidates who receive e-tickets permitting five guests. E-tickets arrive via email one week before scheduled ceremony dates.

Graduate Level	E-Ticket Guests Allowed	Arrival Requirement	Entry Restrictions
Undergraduate degrees	3 guests	60 minutes before ceremony	Children under 7 not permitted
Honours degrees	3 guests	60 minutes before ceremony	Children under 7 not permitted
Master’s degrees	3 guests	60 minutes before ceremony	Children under 7 not permitted
Doctoral degrees	5 guests	60 minutes before ceremony	Children under 7 not permitted

Graduates and guests must be seated 15 minutes before ceremony commencement. The UJ Auditorium closes doors 10 minutes before scheduled start times, with no late entry permitted after doors close. This policy ensures ceremony proceedings begin punctually without disruptions.

The University does not accommodate requests for additional guest tickets beyond allocated amounts. Graduates requiring additional guest capacity may arrange for family members to view ceremonies through live web streaming services available on the UJ graduation website.

Outstanding Fees and Certificate Withholding

Students with outstanding fees, library fines, or missing documents may attend graduation ceremonies, walk across the stage, and participate in photographs, but the University withholds official certificates and academic records until all obligations are cleared.

Outstanding matters requiring resolution before certificate release include:

• Unpaid tuition fees from current or previous academic years
• Library fines exceeding R50 for overdue books, lost materials, or damaged resources
• Parking fines issued by Campus Protection Services for traffic violations
• Residence fees for students who occupied University accommodation
• Missing academic documents such as matric certificates, transfer credits, or research ethics approvals

Students settle outstanding fees through Student Finance offices at least 8 weeks before graduation seasons commence. The University confirms payment receipt within 5 business days, notifying faculties to authorize certificate printing for resolved accounts.

Graduation Attire and Photography Services

Graduation gown rental and purchase services are the graduate’s financial responsibility, with no funding provided by the University. The official gown supplier for 2026 is Dippenaar en Reinecke, offering rental packages from R450 for undergraduate gowns and purchase options from R2,800 for bachelor’s degree regalia.

Graduates order gowns directly from Dippenaar en Reinecke using order forms distributed with graduation invitation letters. Gown collection occurs on campus 2 days before scheduled ceremonies, with return required within 24 hours after ceremony completion for rental orders.

Professional photography services operate at graduation ceremonies, capturing individual graduate portraits and family photographs. Graduates book photography packages in advance through links provided in graduation invitation emails, with basic packages starting at R350 for digital image collections.

UJ Exam Dates 2026: Assessment Periods and Supplementary Opportunities

The University of Johannesburg 2026 examination schedule includes final assessments from Thursday, May 28, 2026, to Friday, June 19, 2026, for first semester and Thursday, October 22, 2026, to Friday, November 13, 2026, for second semester, with supplementary assessment opportunities provided in July 2026 and November 2026 for students who meet supplementary examination criteria.

First Semester Assessment Schedule

Assessment Type	Start Date	End Date	Duration
Study period	Monday, May 23, 2026	Friday, May 27, 2026	5 days
Final assessments	Thursday, May 28, 2026	Friday, June 19, 2026	23 days
Winter recess	Saturday, June 20, 2026	Sunday, July 5, 2026	16 days
Supplementary assessments	Monday, July 6, 2026	Friday, July 10, 2026	5 days
Special assessments	Monday, July 27, 2026	Friday, July 31, 2026	5 days

Students qualify for supplementary assessments when they obtain a final mark between 40% and 49% in a module, subject to faculty-specific regulations. The University publishes individual examination timetables through the uLink portal approximately 4 weeks before assessment periods begin.

Second Semester Assessment Schedule

Assessment Type	Start Date	End Date	Duration
Study period	Saturday, October 17, 2026	Wednesday, October 21, 2026	5 days
Final assessments	Thursday, October 22, 2026	Friday, November 13, 2026	23 days
Supplementary study period	Monday, November 16, 2026	Sunday, November 22, 2026	7 days
Supplementary assessments	Monday, November 23, 2026	Friday, November 27, 2026	5 days
Special assessments (2027)	Monday, January 11, 2027	Friday, January 15, 2027	5 days

The University schedules examinations during weekdays and Saturdays, with no Sunday examinations except in exceptional circumstances approved by faculty boards. Students writing 3 or more examinations within 24 hours may apply for an aegrotat examination through their faculty administration.

University of Johannesburg 2026 Holiday Schedule and Recess Periods

The University of Johannesburg observes 11 South African public holidays in 2026 plus 2 additional university holidays on Friday, January 2, 2026, and Friday, September 25, 2026, with mid-semester recesses scheduled from Friday, March 28, 2026, to Sunday, April 5, 2026, and Saturday, August 29, 2026, to Sunday, September 6, 2026.

Public Holidays Observed in 2026

Holiday Name	Date
New Year’s Day	Thursday, January 1, 2026
University Holiday	Friday, January 2, 2026
Human Rights Day	Saturday, March 21, 2026
Good Friday	Friday, April 3, 2026
Family Day	Monday, April 6, 2026
Freedom Day	Monday, April 27, 2026
Workers’ Day	Friday, May 1, 2026
Youth Day	Tuesday, June 16, 2026
National Women’s Day	Sunday, August 9, 2026
National Women’s Day (observed)	Monday, August 10, 2026
Heritage Day	Thursday, September 24, 2026
University Holiday	Friday, September 25, 2026
Day of Reconciliation	Wednesday, December 16, 2026
Christmas Day	Friday, December 25, 2026
Day of Goodwill	Saturday, December 26, 2026

When public holidays fall on Sundays, the University observes the following Monday as a substitute holiday, as demonstrated by National Women’s Day observed on Monday, August 10, 2026.

Recess Periods for Students and Staff

The University schedules three main recess periods in 2026:

• Mid-first semester recess: Friday, March 28, 2026, to Sunday, April 5, 2026 (9 days including Easter weekend)
• Winter recess: Saturday, June 20, 2026, to Sunday, July 5, 2026 (16 days between semesters)
• Mid-second semester recess: Saturday, August 29, 2026, to Sunday, September 6, 2026 (9 days including Heritage Day)

During recess periods, University libraries and student facilities maintain limited operating hours. Academic staff not involved in supplementary assessments conduct research activities during the winter recess from Monday, July 6, 2026, to Friday, July 10, 2026.

UJ Staff Calendar 2026: Professional Support and Academic Staff Reporting Dates

Professional support staff at University of Johannesburg return Monday, January 5, 2026, while academic staff report Monday, January 12, 2026, establishing a 7-day preparatory period for administrative functions before the academic year commences.

Staff Operational Calendar

Staff Category	Reporting Date	Final Day Before December Recess
Professional support staff	Monday, January 5, 2026	Tuesday, December 15, 2026
Academic staff	Monday, January 12, 2026	Monday, December 7, 2026

Academic staff engage in a research period from Monday, January 12, 2026, to Friday, February 6, 2026 (26 days), allowing faculty members to complete research projects, prepare course materials, and supervise postgraduate students before teaching obligations begin.

Academic Staff Research Periods

The University allocates three dedicated research periods for academic staff in 2026:

1. Pre-semester research period: Monday, January 12, 2026, to Friday, February 6, 2026 (26 days)
2. Winter research period: Monday, July 6, 2026, to Friday, July 10, 2026 (5 days, for staff not conducting supplementary assessments)
3. Post-semester research period: December 2026 to January 2027 (varies by faculty)

During research periods, academic staff focus on scholarly activities including journal article submissions, conference presentations, postgraduate supervision, grant applications, and curriculum development for subsequent academic years.

Special Assessment and Supplementary Exam Dates for UJ 2026

Special assessments for previous year modules occur from Monday, January 12, 2026, to Friday, January 16, 2026, before first semester teaching begins, while special assessments for first semester modules run Monday, July 27, 2026, to Friday, July 31, 2026, and second semester special assessments occur Monday, January 11, 2027, to Friday, January 15, 2027.

Special Assessment Categories

The University grants special assessment opportunities in three circumstances:

• Aegrotat examinations for students with documented medical emergencies during scheduled assessments
• Deferred examinations for students with approved leave during examination periods
• Curriculum debt resolution for students with outstanding module requirements from previous years

Students apply for special assessments through faculty administration offices, submitting supporting documentation including medical certificates, death certificates for immediate family members, or other verifiable evidence of extenuating circumstances within 48 hours of the affected assessment.

Supplementary Assessment Eligibility

Students qualify for supplementary assessments when final module marks fall between 40% and 49%, subject to faculty regulations. Faculties determine which modules offer supplementary assessment opportunities, with certain modules requiring students to repeat the entire course in subsequent academic years.

Supplementary Period	Semester	Date Range	Application Deadline
First semester supplementary	Semester 1	Monday, July 6 to Friday, July 10, 2026	7 days after results release
Second semester supplementary	Semester 2	Monday, November 23 to Friday, November 27, 2026	7 days after results release

Students registered for supplementary assessments receive study period allocations before examination dates, with second semester supplementary students granted Monday, November 16, 2026, to Sunday, November 22, 2026 (7 days) for examination preparation.

UJ Campus-Specific Information and Faculty Contact Details

The University of Johannesburg operates 4 main campuses across Johannesburg and Soweto, with each campus hosting specific faculties and offering distinct academic programs aligned with the 2026 academic calendar.

Campus Locations and Faculties

Campus Name	Location	Primary Faculties	Campus Code
Auckland Park Kingsway Campus	Auckland Park, Johannesburg	Humanities, Education, Art Design & Architecture	APK
Auckland Park Bunting Road Campus	Auckland Park, Johannesburg	Science, Engineering & Built Environment	APB
Doornfontein Campus	Doornfontein, Johannesburg	Health Sciences, Management	DFC
Soweto Campus	Soweto	Education, Humanities, Science	SWC

Each campus maintains independent registration offices, student service centers, and faculty administration buildings. Campus operating hours during registration periods extend from 08:00 to 17:00 on weekdays, with Saturday services available from 08:00 to 13:00 during peak registration weeks.

Faculty-Specific Registration Requirements

Different faculties impose additional registration requirements beyond standard University prerequisites:

Faculty of Health Sciences requires police clearance certificates, completed immunization records, and clinical placement agreements signed before registration finalizes. First-year nursing students must complete a 3-day orientation program before accessing clinical facilities.

Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment mandates National Benchmark Test (NBT) results for first-year students, with minimum quantitative literacy scores of 50% and mathematics scores of 60% required for engineering program registration.

Faculty of Education requires Criminal Record Checks through the South African Police Service, as students participate in school-based teaching practice at partner institutions throughout Gauteng Province.

How to Access the UJ Student Portal and Complete 2026 Registration

Students access the University of Johannesburg student portal at registration.uj.ac.za using their 9-digit student number and secure password to complete 2026 registration, module selection, and fee payment processes entirely online.

Step-by-Step Registration Process

1. Navigate to registration.uj.ac.za using a desktop computer or mobile device with stable internet connectivity
2. Enter your 9-digit student number in the username field (example format: 123456789)
3. Input your password (first-time users receive temporary passwords via email to their registered UJ email address)
4. Select “Student Registration 2026” from the uLink dashboard menu
5. Verify personal information including contact details, physical address, and emergency contact numbers
6. Complete faculty-specific forms such as health declarations, placement agreements, or academic progress acknowledgments
7. Select modules according to your program curriculum, ensuring prerequisites are met for advanced modules
8. Review fee structure displaying tuition fees, registration fees, and additional charges for your selected modules
9. Upload financial documentation including NSFAS approval letters, bursary confirmation, or bank payment receipts
10. Submit registration and receive confirmation email with student card collection instructions

The uLink system generates a registration confirmation PDF containing the student’s registered modules, class schedule, fee statement, and important academic dates specific to their program of study.

Technical Support for Registration Issues

Students experiencing uLink portal difficulties access support through:

• UJ Contact Centre: 011 559 4555 (Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 17:00)
• UJ Chatbot: Available 24/7 on uj.ac.za for common registration queries
• Campus IT Help Desks: Located at each campus during registration weeks
• Email support: [email protected] (response within 48 hours)

Common technical issues include password reset failures, module selection errors displaying “prerequisites not met,” and payment confirmation uploads rejected due to file format incompatibility. The Contact Centre resolves 87% of technical queries within the initial contact.

Important UJ Academic Calendar 2026 Deadlines Students Cannot Miss

Critical deadlines for University of Johannesburg 2026 include Friday, February 6, 2026, for registration completion, Friday, March 14, 2026, for module changes without academic penalty, and Monday, May 23, 2026, marking the final day for first semester discontinuation without financial penalty.

Registration and Module Selection Deadlines

Deadline Description	Date	Consequence of Missing Deadline
Online registration closes	Friday, February 6, 2026	Late registration fees apply; potential exclusion from semester
Module addition deadline	Friday, March 14, 2026	Cannot add modules to academic record for first semester
Module discontinuation without academic record	Friday, March 14, 2026	Discontinued modules after this date appear on academic transcript
Module discontinuation with financial credit	Friday, February 28, 2026	No refund for modules discontinued after this date
First semester discontinuation	Monday, May 23, 2026	Academic record shows “discontinued” for all first semester modules

Students missing the February 6 registration deadline must apply through the late registration process, incurring additional administrative fees of R1,500 and requiring faculty approval before accessing academic systems. Late registration applications receive consideration on a case-by-case basis, with faculties prioritizing students demonstrating extenuating circumstances supported by documentary evidence.

Financial Aid and Payment Deadlines

NSFAS-funded students must complete registration by Tuesday, February 17, 2026, to ensure first allowance payments reach student accounts before the academic year commences. Students with outstanding fee balances from previous academic years cannot register until payment arrangements are finalized with Student Finance offices.

The University operates a monthly payment plan allowing students to settle outstanding balances in installments, with the first payment due at registration and subsequent payments processed on the 7th day of each month through October 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions About UJ Academic Calendar 2026

The UJ academic calendar 2026 provides structured sessional dates enabling 50,000+ students across 9 faculties to complete undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications.

Students must monitor uLink portal announcements for timetable updates, examination venue allocations, and supplementary assessment schedules throughout the academic year.

To download the UJ Academic Calendar 2026, visit the University of Johannesburg calendar website.

Faculty administration offices provide calendar clarifications and deadline extensions for students experiencing exceptional circumstances affecting academic progress.

Wits Term Dates 2026 include important academic events such as orientation dates, registration, holidays, other important dates, and deadlines. The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) academic year for 2026 begins on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, with registration closing on Monday, February 2, 2026.

The Wits academic calendar consists of 130 teaching days organized into four teaching blocks, two examination periods, and scheduled vacation breaks.

Overview of Wits 2026 Academic Calendar Structure

The Wits 2026 calendar operates on a two-semester system spanning February through November. The university divides the academic year into four distinct teaching blocks separated by mid-term breaks, examination periods, and vacation intervals.

Key Calendar Statistics:

• Total Teaching Days: 130 days
• Teaching Blocks: 4 blocks (32-34 days each)
• Examination Periods: 2 periods (20 days each)
• Mid-term Breaks: 2 breaks (7-11 days each)
• Major Vacation Periods: 2 periods (27 days winter, extended summer break)

Calendar Component	Number of Days	Percentage of Year
Teaching Days	130	39.8%
Examination Days	40	12.2%
Study Breaks	10	3.1%
Vacation Periods	155+	47.4%

Wits Registration and Orientation Dates 2026

Registration for returning undergraduate and postgraduate students opened on Friday, January 2, 2026, and closes on Monday, February 2, 2026. This 32-day registration window accommodates both online and in-person registration processes.

Gateway to Success Orientation Program

The Gateway to Success orientation program runs from Tuesday, January 20, 2026, through Monday, February 2, 2026, spanning 10 working days. This mandatory first-year orientation program occurs before the official term start date.

Important Pre-Term Dates:

Activity	Date	Day	Status
Publication of Matric Results	January 12, 2026	Monday	Completed
Welcome Day	January 18, 2026	Sunday	Completed
Gateway to Success Starts	January 20, 2026	Tuesday	In Progress
Registration Opens	January 2, 2026	Friday	Open
Registration Closes	February 2, 2026	Monday	Final Day

First Semester: Wits Term Dates 2026 (February to June)

The first semester comprises two teaching blocks separated by a mid-term vacation and concludes with a three-week examination period.

First Teaching Block

The first teaching block begins on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, and continues through Wednesday, March 18, 2026, providing 32 teaching days. This block represents the initial academic engagement period for all students.

Mid-Term Vacation (March Break)

The mid-term vacation starts on Thursday, March 19, 2026, and ends on Sunday, March 29, 2026, offering an 11-day break for study and research activities.

Second Teaching Block

Teaching resumes on Monday, March 30, 2026, and extends to Tuesday, May 19, 2026, comprising 33 teaching days. This block completes the first semester instructional period.

First Semester Study Break and Examinations

A 5-day study break runs from Wednesday, May 20, 2026, through Sunday, May 24, 2026. The first examination period begins on Monday, May 25, 2026, and concludes on Monday, June 22, 2026, spanning 20 examination days.

First Semester Timeline:

Period	Start Date	End Date	Duration
First Teaching Block	Tuesday, February 3, 2026	Wednesday, March 18, 2026	32 days
Mid-term Vacation	Thursday, March 19, 2026	Sunday, March 29, 2026	11 days
Second Teaching Block	Monday, March 30, 2026	Tuesday, May 19, 2026	33 days
Study Break	Wednesday, May 20, 2026	Sunday, May 24, 2026	5 days
Examinations	Monday, May 25, 2026	Monday, June 22, 2026	20 days

Winter Vacation Period 2026

The winter vacation begins on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, and extends through Sunday, July 19, 2026, providing a 27-day break between semesters. This extended vacation allows for research activities, study, and academic preparation for second semester.

Second Semester: Wits Academic Calendar 2026 (July to November)

The second semester follows an identical structure to the first semester, with two teaching blocks, a mid-term break, and a final examination period.

Third Teaching Block

The third teaching block commences on Monday, July 20, 2026, and runs until Friday, September 4, 2026, comprising 34 teaching days. This block represents the longest single teaching period in the 2026 calendar.

September Mid-Term Break

A shorter mid-term break occurs from Monday, September 7, 2026, through Sunday, September 13, 2026, providing 7 days for study and research.

Fourth Teaching Block

The fourth and final teaching block begins on Monday, September 14, 2026, and continues through Tuesday, October 27, 2026, consisting of 31 teaching days.

Second Semester Examinations and Year-End

The second study break runs from Wednesday, October 28, 2026, to Sunday, November 1, 2026 (5 days). Final examinations begin on Monday, November 2, 2026, and conclude on Friday, November 27, 2026 (20 days).

The last official day of the 2026 academic term is Friday, November 27, 2026. Summer vacation begins on Saturday, November 28, 2026.

Second Semester Timeline:

Period	Start Date	End Date	Duration
Third Teaching Block	Monday, July 20, 2026	Friday, September 4, 2026	34 days
Mid-term Vacation	Monday, September 7, 2026	Sunday, September 13, 2026	7 days
Fourth Teaching Block	Monday, September 14, 2026	Tuesday, October 27, 2026	31 days
Study Break	Wednesday, October 28, 2026	Sunday, November 1, 2026	5 days
Final Examinations	Monday, November 2, 2026	Friday, November 27, 2026	20 days

Wits Online Degree Intake Dates 2026

Wits offers six distinct intake periods for online degree programs throughout 2026. Each intake runs for approximately 8 weeks.

Intake Period	Start Date	End Date	Duration
Online Degree Intake 1	Monday, January 12, 2026	Sunday, March 8, 2026	8 weeks
Online Degree Intake 2	Monday, March 9, 2026	Sunday, May 3, 2026	8 weeks
Online Degree Intake 3	Monday, May 4, 2026	Sunday, June 28, 2026	8 weeks
Online Degree Intake 4	Monday, June 29, 2026	Sunday, August 23, 2026	8 weeks
Online Degree Intake 5	Monday, August 24, 2026	Sunday, October 18, 2026	8 weeks
Online Degree Intake 6	Monday, October 19, 2026	Sunday, December 13, 2026	8 weeks

Online Program Flexibility

Online degree programs at Wits operate independently from the traditional academic calendar. Students can begin their studies at six entry points throughout the year, providing flexibility for working professionals and distance learners.

Public Holidays and University Closures 2026

The university closes for 11 official public holidays in 2026. No examinations are scheduled on recognized university holidays or holy days.

First Quarter Holidays (January to March)

Holiday	Date	Day	University Status
New Year’s Day	January 1, 2026	Thursday	Closed
Human Rights Day	March 21, 2026	Saturday	Closed

Second Quarter Holidays (April to June)

Holiday	Date	Day	University Status
Good Friday	April 3, 2026	Friday	Closed
Family Day	April 6, 2026	Monday	Closed
Freedom Day	April 27, 2026	Monday	Closed
Workers’ Day	May 1, 2026	Friday	Closed
Youth Day	June 16, 2026	Tuesday	Closed

Third Quarter Holidays (July to September)

Holiday	Date	Day	University Status
National Women’s Day	August 9, 2026	Sunday	Closed
Public Holiday	August 10, 2026	Monday	Closed
Heritage Day	September 24, 2026	Thursday	Closed

Fourth Quarter Holidays (October to December)

Holiday	Date	Day	University Status
Day of Reconciliation	December 16, 2026	Wednesday	Closed
Christmas Day	December 25, 2026	Friday	Closed
Day of Goodwill	December 26, 2026	Saturday	Closed

Religious Observances 2026

Wits recognizes Islamic, Jewish, and Hindu holy days in its academic planning. The university does not schedule examinations on these observance dates.

Islamic Holy Days:

• 1st Ramadaan (Commencement of Fasting): February 18 or 19, 2026 (date depends on moon sighting)
• Eid-ul-Fitr (Termination of Fasting): Saturday, March 21, 2026
• Eid-ul-Adha (Day of Sacrifice): Thursday, May 28, 2026

Jewish Holy Days:

• Passover (Pesach): April 2-9, 2026 (8 days)
• Shavuoth: May 22-23, 2026 (2 days)
• Rosh Hashanah: September 12-13, 2026 (2 days)
• Yom Kippur: Monday, September 21, 2026
• Sukkot: September 26-27, 2026 (2 days)
• Sh’mini Atzeret: Saturday, October 3, 2026
• Simchat Torah: Sunday, October 4, 2026

Hindu Holy Days:

• Deepavali/Luxmi Pooja: Sunday, November 8, 2026

Wits Health Sciences Calendar 2026

The Faculty of Health Sciences operates on a modified calendar that differs from the general university term dates. Health Sciences students should consult faculty-specific documentation for accurate dates.

Health Sciences Variations

Health Sciences programs, including MBBCh (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) and BPharm (Bachelor of Pharmacy), commence earlier than the general academic calendar. Some Health Sciences programs began as early as Monday, January 19, 2026.

Key Differences:

• Earlier start dates for clinical programs
• Modified examination schedules
• Extended practical training periods
• Different vacation timing for clinical rotations

Students enrolled in Health Sciences programs receive separate calendar documentation from the Faculty of Health Sciences administrative office.

Wits Postgraduate Calendar 2026

Postgraduate students follow the same registration timeline as undergraduate students, with registration closing on Monday, February 2, 2026. However, research-based postgraduate programs have flexible term structures.

Postgraduate Orientation

Postgraduate orientation runs concurrently with the Gateway to Success program from Tuesday, January 20, 2026, through Monday, February 2, 2026. This 10-day period covers research methodologies, academic writing, and departmental procedures.

Research Student Flexibility

Masters and Doctoral students conducting full-time research have access to university facilities throughout vacation periods. Research students are not bound by the teaching block structure but must observe examination period restrictions on facility access.

South African Public School Calendar 2026 Comparison

The Wits academic calendar aligns partially with South African public school terms, accommodating students with school-age dependents.

School Term	Duration	School Days	Public Holidays
Term 1	January 14 – March 27, 2026	53-55 days	0
Term 2	April 8 – June 26, 2026	54 days	4
Term 3	July 21 – September 23, 2026	46 days	1
Term 4	October 6 – December 11, 2026	47-49 days	0

Total Public School Days: 200-204 days

The public school calendar includes 200-204 actual teaching days compared to Wits’ 130 teaching days, reflecting the difference between secondary and tertiary education structures.

How to Access Your Wits Academic Calendar

Students can access personalized academic calendars through the Wits Self-Service portal. The portal provides faculty-specific dates, examination timetables, and registration deadlines.

Official Calendar Resources

The University of the Witwatersrand publishes official calendar documentation at wits.ac.za/students/academic-matters/term-dates/. Students should verify all dates through official university channels before making academic or travel arrangements.

Faculty-Specific Calendars

Each faculty publishes supplementary calendar information addressing:

• Laboratory session schedules
• Clinical rotation dates (Health Sciences)
• Field work periods (Sciences)
• Practical examination dates
• Faculty-specific orientation programs

Wits 2026 Registration Closing Dates by Student Category

Registration deadlines vary by student classification. All students must complete registration and financial clearance by Monday, February 2, 2026, to maintain enrollment status.

Registration Requirements

Students must satisfy the Minimum Initial Payment (MIP) requirement before registration confirmation. NSFAS-funded students receive automatic financial clearance once NSFAS approval is confirmed.

Registration Timeline:

1. Online registration portal opens: Friday, January 2, 2026
2. Early registration period: January 2-15, 2026
3. Standard registration period: January 16-30, 2026
4. Final registration window: January 31 – February 2, 2026
5. Registration closes: Monday, February 2, 2026, at 23:59

Late Registration Consequences

Students who fail to complete registration by February 2, 2026, may face:

• Loss of residence accommodation
• Cancellation of course enrollment
• Removal from examination registers
• Academic exclusion for the 2026 year

The university does not accept walk-in applications or late registrations after the February 2 deadline. Students experiencing registration difficulties should contact the Student Enrolment Centre before the deadline.

Key Dates Summary: Wits Term Dates 2026

Milestone	Date	Significance
Registration Closes	Monday, February 2, 2026	Final day for enrollment
Term Begins	Tuesday, February 3, 2026	First day of lectures
Mid-Year Exams Start	Monday, May 25, 2026	First semester assessments
Winter Vacation Begins	Tuesday, June 23, 2026	27-day semester break
Second Semester Starts	Monday, July 20, 2026	Third teaching block
Final Exams Begin	Monday, November 2, 2026	Year-end assessments
Term Ends	Friday, November 27, 2026	Last academic day

Frequently Asked Questions About Wits Term Dates 2026

Planning Your Academic Year at Wits 2026

Students should plan travel, accommodation, and work commitments around the confirmed term dates. The 130-day teaching calendar provides structured learning periods interspersed with breaks for consolidation and assessment.

Key Planning Considerations

Accommodation Requirements:

• Residence contracts align with registration and term dates
• Students must secure accommodation before February 2, 2026
• Residence facilities close during mid-term and winter vacations

Financial Planning:

• Complete NSFAS applications before registration opens
• Arrange payment plans with Student Finance before February 2
• Budget for 11 months of living expenses (February to December)

Academic Preparation:

• Purchase textbooks during January orientation period
• Access online learning platforms before February 3
• Attend faculty-specific orientation sessions in late January

Term Date Verification

Students should verify all calendar information through official Wits channels. The university reserves the right to modify term dates for extraordinary circumstances. Updates are published at wits.ac.za and communicated through official student email accounts.

The Wits 2026 term dates provide a structured framework for academic success, with 130 teaching days, two examination periods, and scheduled breaks supporting student learning and wellbeing throughout the academic year.

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 encompasses critical dates for tuition payments, course registration, examination periods, and academic milestones that govern the educational timeline for JD, LLM, and visiting students.

Brooklyn Law School operates on a two-semester academic calendar with distinct Fall and Spring terms, supplemented by intensive Winter and Summer sessions.

Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar Structure

The academic calendar at Brooklyn Law School follows a traditional semester system spanning approximately 15 weeks per term. Each semester includes designated reading periods, examination windows, and strategic breaks aligned with federal holidays and religious observances.

Students at Brooklyn Law School navigate through structured timelines that dictate enrollment deadlines, withdrawal periods, and graduation requirements across their legal education journey.

Fall Semester 2025 Overview

The Fall 2025 semester establishes the foundation for the Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026, with classes commencing on Monday, August 25, 2025 for upper-class students. First-year JD students complete mandatory orientation programming through Introduction to the Study of Law from Monday, August 18 through Thursday, August 21, 2025, immediately preceding regular coursework.

Key Fall 2025 Dates:

Event	Date	Student Group
Tuition Due (New Students)	Tuesday, July 15, 2025	Incoming JD/LLM
Tuition Due (Upper Class)	Friday, August 15, 2025	Continuing Students
Move-In (JD/LLM)	Friday, August 15, 2025	New Students
Convocation	Monday, August 18, 2025	All Students
First Day of Classes	Monday, August 25, 2025	Upper Class
Add/Drop Deadline	Friday, August 29, 2025	All Students
Rosh Hashanah Break	September 22-24, 2025	All Students
Yom Kippur	Thursday, October 2, 2025	All Students
Thanksgiving Recess	November 26-28, 2025	All Students
Last Day of Classes	Wednesday, December 3, 2025	All Students
Reading Period	December 4-7, 2025	All Students
Examination Period	December 8-19, 2025	All Students

Spring Semester 2026 Timeline

The Spring 2026 semester represents the core component of the Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026. Classes begin on Monday, January 12, 2026 following the Winter Intensive Session held from Monday, January 5 through Friday, January 9, 2026.

Critical Spring 2026 Deadlines:

Event	Date	Requirements
Tuition Payment Due	Monday, January 5, 2026	All Enrolled Students
Winter Intensive Session	January 5-9, 2026	Optional Enrollment
Spring Classes Begin	Monday, January 12, 2026	All Students
Add/Drop Period Ends	Friday, January 16, 2026	Schedule Finalization
MLK Day (Holiday)	Monday, January 19, 2026	No Classes
Presidents’ Day (Holiday)	Monday, February 16, 2026	No Classes
Spring Recess	March 9-13, 2026	All Classes Suspended
Passover	Thursday, April 2, 2026	Classes Suspended
Good Friday	Friday, April 3, 2026	Classes Suspended
Last Day of Classes	Thursday, April 23, 2026	All Students
Reading Period	April 24-27, 2026	Exam Preparation
Examination Period	April 28 – May 8, 2026	All Students
Commencement	Monday, May 11, 2026	Graduating Students

Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026: First-Year Student Timeline

First-year JD students encounter structured programming that extends beyond standard coursework. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 integrates mandatory orientations, legal writing assessments, and career development workshops specifically designed for 1L students.

August 2025: Orientation and Transition

Monday, August 18, 2025 marks Convocation for incoming students. The mandatory Introduction to the Study of Law course runs through Thursday, August 21, 2025, covering foundational legal analysis methods, case briefing techniques, and academic expectations.

Students complete the New Student To Do List, which includes Canvas course access verification, textbook procurement, and Core Grammar for Lawyers subscription activation. Friday, August 22, 2025 features BLS Service Day, introducing students to public interest law opportunities through the Public Service Law Center.

September Through November 2025: Academic Foundations

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar allocates September through November for fundamental skill development. First-year students submit Research Skills Assessments and Legal Research and Writing Memo 1 during October. Many 1L courses schedule midterm examinations in October, providing early performance feedback before final examinations.

Career Development Milestones:

• Resume and cover letter workshops begin in September
• Symplicity profile completion deadline: October 15
• Edward V. Sparer Fellowship applications due: late October
• Public Interest Legal Career Fair registration opens: November

December 2025 Through January 2026: Examinations and Transition

The Fall examination period extends from Monday, December 8 through Friday, December 19, 2025. First-year students access Exams-on-File through BLSConnect to review previous examination materials and attend faculty-led review sessions.

Career preparation intensifies during December. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar permits students to begin applying for 1L summer positions starting December 1, 2025. Public Interest Legal Career Fair interview sign-ups require completion by mid-January 2026.

Spring 2026: Advanced Legal Writing and Career Planning

Second-semester first-year students focus on Legal Research and Writing Memo 2 and oral argument preparations. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 Spring semester includes Journal Information Sessions in February and Clinic Fair programming in March.

February 2026 marks the Public Interest Legal Career Fair attendance period. Students participate in formal interviews and Table Talk networking sessions regardless of scheduled interview confirmations.

March through April 2026 encompasses course selection for fall enrollment. First-year students attend Registration Guidance Sessions, participate in Moot Court Honor Society trial team competitions, and submit fall clinic applications.

Second-Year Student Roadmap in the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026

Second-year JD students navigate increased curricular flexibility while satisfying upper-level writing requirements and experiential learning mandates. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 structures deadlines for externship enrollment, clinic applications, and specialized program participation.

Fall 2025 Semester Planning

Upper-class students finalize fall schedules before Monday, August 25, 2025. The Add/Drop period concludes on Friday, August 29, 2025, requiring definitive course selections within four days of semester commencement.

Externship Requirements:

• Fall externship enrollment forms due: early August 2025
• Placement start date coordination: August 2025
• Credit application through CORE ELMS: ongoing
• Supervisor evaluation submission: semester conclusion

Second-year students determine fulfillment pathways for either Additional Upper-Level Writing Requirements or Substantial Upper-Level Writing Requirements during fall planning. Faculty advisor identification for independent study projects occurs during August and September.

Career Development Through Spring 2026

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar integrates mandatory career programming throughout second year. Students update resumes following summer employment, create LinkedIn profiles, and participate in the Brooklyn Law School Mentoring Program matching process during September and October.

Equal Justice Works Conference registration opens for students pursuing public sector positions. The conference occurs in November, requiring advance registration and travel planning for Washington, DC attendance.

Spring 2026 Career Milestones:

• Career Conversations program: February 2026 (50+ alumni, 25+ practice areas)
• Public Interest Legal Career Fair: early February 2026 at NYU
• Pro Bono Scholars program applications: March 2026
• Student organization alumni dinners: April 2026

Academic Requirements and Clinic Selection

Spring course registration occurs in November 2025. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar mandates clinic application submissions following Clinical Program information sessions in October. Specialized externship opportunities require separate application processes with distinct deadlines.

Second-year students assess graduation requirement progress during spring planning:

• Substantial Upper-Level Writing Requirement status
• Additional Upper-Level Writing Requirement completion
• Clinic/externship requirement satisfaction (6 experiential credits minimum)
• ABA experiential requirements compliance

Third-Year Timeline in the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026

Third-year students prioritize graduation requirement completion, bar examination preparation, and employment securing throughout the Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026. The timeline incorporates New York Law Exam scheduling, Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination registration, and commercial bar review course enrollment.

Fall 2025: Final Academic Planning

Students verify compliance with all graduation requirements during August schedule finalization. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar requires third-year students to confirm:

• Professional Responsibility course completion
• 6 experiential credits satisfaction
• Minimum 1 clinic enrollment
• Substantial Upper-Level Writing Requirement fulfillment
• Additional Upper-Level Writing Requirement fulfillment

Bar Examination Preparation Timeline:

• New York Law Exam registration (September exam): by August 27, 2025
• MPRE registration (November exam): by September 19, 2025
• October degree application: deadline via Dean of Students email
• February degree application: deadline via Dean of Students email

Spring 2026: Graduation Preparation

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 Spring semester focuses on employment finalization and bar examination readiness. Third-year students attend Career Conversations programming, maintain Symplicity job search activity, and schedule exit interviews with career counselors.

New York Bar Exam (July 2026) Registration:

• Registration period: April 1-30, 2026
• Handwriting sample session attendance: April 2026
• Commercial bar review enrollment: April 2026 (if not completed)
• Academic Success consultation: ongoing through April

Graduation Events:

Activity	Timing	Notes
Class Gift Contributions	February 2026	Voluntary participation
Graduation Photos	February 2026	Professional photography
Student Speaker Voting	April 2026	All students eligible
Graduation Ticket Pickup	April 2026	Limited quantity
Commencement	Monday, May 11, 2026	Official degree conferral

Tuition Payment Deadlines in the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar establishes strict payment deadlines tied to enrollment status. Failure to remit tuition by specified dates results in registration cancellation and course access termination.

Fall 2025 Payment Structure

Tuesday, July 15, 2025: All new incoming students (JD and LLM) must submit tuition, fees, and housing charges. This deadline applies exclusively to students beginning legal studies in Fall 2025.

Friday, August 15, 2025: Upper-class students (continuing JD and LLM) submit tuition, fees, and housing charges. This category encompasses all students enrolled in previous semesters returning for Fall 2025 coursework.

Friday, December 5, 2025: Non-matriculated visiting students attending Winter Session submit tuition charges. Exchange students receive exemption from this requirement through institutional agreements.

Spring 2026 Payment Requirements

Monday, January 5, 2026: All students enrolled in Spring 2026 courses submit tuition, fees, and housing charges. This deadline encompasses continuing students, new spring admits, and students returning from approved leaves of absence.

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar does not provide tuition installment plans within individual semesters. Students requiring alternative payment arrangements must contact the Financial Aid Office before semester commencement to explore federal loan options, private financing, or employer reimbursement coordination.

Refund Policies Within the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar

Pro-rata tuition refunds follow specific timelines based on enrollment status. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 establishes distinct refund deadlines for first-year students, upper-level students, and LLM candidates.

Fall 2025 Refund Deadlines

Student Category	Last Refund Date	Refund Percentage
Incoming LLM Students	Tuesday, October 21, 2025	Pro-rata calculation
First-Year JD Students	Tuesday, October 21, 2025	Pro-rata calculation
Upper-Level JD Students	Friday, October 24, 2025	Pro-rata calculation

Pro-rata refunds calculate based on course withdrawal timing relative to semester duration. Students withdrawing during the first 20% of the semester receive 80% tuition refunds. Withdrawals occurring between 20-40% of semester completion generate 60% refunds. No refunds process for withdrawals after 60% semester completion.

Spring 2026 Refund Policy

Sunday, March 15, 2026 represents the final date for Spring 2026 pro-rata tuition refunds. Students withdrawing after this date forfeit all tuition payments regardless of course completion percentage or extenuating circumstances.

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar requires formal withdrawal processing through the Registrar’s Office. Email notifications or informal faculty communications do not constitute official withdrawal for refund calculation purposes.

Religious Observances in the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026

Brooklyn Law School suspends all classes for major Jewish and Christian holidays. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 incorporates these observances without requiring individual student absence notifications or makeup work arrangements.

Fall 2025 Religious Holidays:

• Rosh Hashanah: Monday, September 22 through Wednesday, September 24, 2025 (classes suspended)
• Yom Kippur: Thursday, October 2, 2025 (classes suspended)

Spring 2026 Religious Holidays:

• Passover: Thursday, April 2, 2026 (classes suspended)
• Good Friday: Friday, April 3, 2026 (classes suspended)

Classes follow alternative day schedules surrounding certain holidays. Wednesday, October 1, 2025 follows a Friday schedule to accommodate Yom Kippur. Tuesday, December 2, 2025 follows a Thursday schedule for calendar balancing. Tuesday, February 17, 2026 follows a Monday schedule after Presidents’ Day. Wednesday, April 1, 2026 follows a Friday schedule preceding Passover.

Students observing religious holidays not included in the official calendar must request accommodations through individual faculty members. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar does not guarantee class cancellations for religious observances beyond those explicitly listed.

Examination Periods and Reading Days in the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar designates specific examination windows following designated reading periods. Faculty members schedule individual course examinations within these windows, with the Registrar’s Office coordinating conflict resolution.

Fall 2025 Examination Schedule

Reading Period: Thursday, December 4 through Sunday, December 7, 2025 Examination Period: Monday, December 8 through Friday, December 19, 2025

The four-day reading period prohibits faculty from scheduling classes, holding mandatory review sessions, or assigning graded work. Students utilize this time for examination preparation, outline finalization, and practice question completion.

The Registrar’s Office distributes examination conflict information during November. Students with three or more examinations scheduled within a 24-hour period or students with back-to-back three-hour examinations qualify for conflict resolution through rescheduling or alternative examination arrangements.

Spring 2026 Examination Timeline

Reading Period: Friday, April 24 through Monday, April 27, 2026 Examination Period: Tuesday, April 28 through Friday, May 8, 2026

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 Spring examination period extends 11 days, accommodating the larger course selection available during spring semester. Students receive examination schedules approximately four weeks before the reading period begins.

Faculty members submit final grades within 14 days of examination administration. The Registrar’s Office posts grades to student accounts through the secure portal accessible via BLSConnect. Students with grade disputes or examination concerns must initiate formal appeals within 30 days of grade posting.

Add/Drop Period Within the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar

Course adjustment windows permit enrollment modifications without academic penalty or transcript notation. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar establishes brief add/drop periods at semester commencement.

Fall 2025 Add/Drop: Friday, August 29, 2025 (four days after upper-class instruction begins) Spring 2026 Add/Drop: Friday, January 16, 2026 (four days after spring instruction begins)

Students add or drop courses through the online registration system accessible via BLSConnect. Faculty permission signatures are not required during the official add/drop period. Course additions attempted after the deadline require petition submission to the Registrar’s Office with written faculty approval.

Courses dropped during the official add/drop period do not appear on academic transcripts. Withdrawals processed after add/drop deadline closure generate “W” transcript notations and count toward semester enrollment calculations for financial aid purposes.

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar does not permit add/drop extensions for individual students regardless of extenuating circumstances. Students experiencing medical emergencies, family crises, or other significant events must petition for late withdrawal rather than add/drop period extension.

Housing and Move-In Dates in the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026

Residence hall availability aligns with academic calendar dates. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 coordinates move-in scheduling with orientation programming and semester commencement.

Fall 2025 Housing Timeline

Friday, August 15, 2025: JD and LLM students move into on-campus housing Sunday, August 17, 2025: Off-campus upper-class students permitted early move-in

New students receive priority move-in scheduling to accommodate orientation programming beginning Monday, August 18, 2025. Upper-class students residing off-campus may access early move-in if participating in student organization leadership activities or employment requiring campus presence.

Housing charges appear on student accounts concurrent with tuition billing. Fall housing payments accompany tuition due dates: July 15, 2025 for new students, August 15, 2025 for continuing students.

Spring 2026 Housing Considerations

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar addresses unique spring housing situations. Saturday, February 28, 2026 represents the move-out date for Feil Hall residents taking the February 2026 Bar Examination. This accommodation permits graduates to vacate housing before bar examination travel while maintaining residence through examination preparation periods.

Spring housing lottery information distribution occurs in February for students requesting on-campus housing for the subsequent academic year. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar coordinates housing applications with course registration periods to facilitate comprehensive planning.

Winter Intensive Session and Summer Programming

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 includes concentrated course offerings outside traditional semesters. These programs permit accelerated credit accumulation and specialized skill development.

Winter Intensive Session Details

Dates: Monday, January 5 through Friday, January 9, 2026 Tuition Due: Monday, January 5, 2026 (included in spring tuition payment)

Winter Intensive courses meet daily for extended periods, completing full-semester curricula within one week. Course offerings vary annually based on faculty availability and student demand. Students enrolled in Winter Intensive courses receive full course credits equivalent to traditional semester-length courses.

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar positions Winter Intensive immediately before Spring semester commencement, allowing seamless transition from intensive programming to regular coursework without extended breaks.

Summer 2026 Legal Process Programming

Dates: Monday, August 11 through Thursday, August 14, 2025

Summer Legal Process serves incoming JD students requiring additional preparation before first-year coursework. This voluntary program covers legal reasoning fundamentals, case analysis techniques, and academic success strategies. Students completing Summer Legal Process proceed directly to mandatory orientation programming beginning August 18.

Clinical and Externship Enrollment in the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar

Experiential learning opportunities require specialized enrollment procedures distinct from traditional coursework registration. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar establishes specific deadlines for clinic applications and externship credit processing.

Fall 2025 Clinic Timeline

Clinical Program information sessions occur in March preceding fall enrollment. Students submit clinic applications during March, with acceptance notifications distributed in April. Fall externship enrollment forms require submission in early August 2025 before semester commencement.

Clinical Requirements:

• Minimum 6 experiential credits for graduation
• At least 1 clinic enrollment during JD program
• Faculty supervision throughout clinical work
• Completion of substantive legal projects

Spring 2026 Externship Procedures

Students seeking spring externships consult Symplicity and career counselors during fall semester. October information sessions address spring clinic opportunities. Application deadlines follow information session completion, typically requiring submission in October for spring enrollment.

Externship credit applications process through CORE ELMS accessible via BLSConnect. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar does not permit retroactive externship credit applications after semester commencement. Students must secure externship placements and complete credit applications before the spring add/drop deadline of Friday, January 16, 2026.

Academic Success Resources Throughout the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar integrates structured support programming across both semesters. Academic Success faculty offer weekly workshops, individual consultations, and examination preparation resources.

Fall 2025 Support Programming

Weekly sessions begin during orientation week, addressing time management systems, stress reduction techniques, and effective note-taking strategies. Friday Legal Skills workshops commence in September, covering outlining methods, practice question analysis, and examination approaches.

Academic Success maintains drop-in consultation hours and scheduled appointment availability. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar recommends students attend midpoint assessments during October to evaluate study strategy effectiveness before examination periods.

Spring 2026 Academic Support

Students review fall examination performance with Academic Success faculty during January. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar encourages students to identify performance patterns and modify study approaches based on fall results.

Spring programming addresses advanced skills including appellate brief writing, oral argument preparation, and specialized research techniques. Academic Success coordinates with faculty teaching upper-level writing seminars to provide supplemental support for research paper development.

Bar Examination Preparation in the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar

Third-year students coordinate bar examination registration with academic calendar dates. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 incorporates specific deadlines for New York Bar Exam components and commercial bar review course enrollment.

New York Law Exam (NYLE) Registration

Students may take the NYLE during law school or after graduation. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar notes registration deadlines:

• September 26, 2025 exam: register by August 27, 2025
• December 19, 2025 exam: register by November 19, 2025

NYLE examinations test New York-specific law across multiple subjects including New York Practice, Professional Responsibility, and substantive law areas. Students typically schedule NYLE examinations during third year to separate preparation from bar examination studying.

Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE)

The MPRE administers three times annually. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar identifies registration deadlines:

• November 2025 exam: register by September 19, 2025
• March 2026 exam: register by January 2026 deadline

Students must achieve minimum MPRE scores for New York bar admission. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar recommends MPRE completion during second or third year before concentrated bar examination preparation begins.

July 2026 New York Bar Exam

Registration Period: April 1-30, 2026 Testing Accommodations Requests: Submit January 2026 Handwriting Sample Session: April 2026

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar coordinates graduation timing with July bar examination scheduling. Commencement occurs Monday, May 11, 2026, providing graduating students eight weeks of concentrated bar review before the July examination administration.

Academic Success offers post-graduation support including study skills resources, time management guidance, and additional practice materials. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar recommends students consult Academic Success during April for bar examination readiness assessment.

Career Development Programming Across the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026

Career preparation integrates throughout the academic calendar with programming tailored to student year. The Career Development Center and Public Service Law Center coordinate workshops, networking events, and counseling appointments aligned with recruitment timelines.

First-Year Career Milestones

Month	Programming	Deadlines
September	Resume/cover letter workshops	Complete Symplicity profile
October	Diversity fellowship sessions	Finalize 1L summer resume
November	Position research guidance	Apply for fellowships
December	Job application preparation	Begin Dec 1 applications
January	PILC Fair registration	Interview sign-up deadline
February	PILC Fair attendance	Participate in Table Talk
March	Writing sample development	Select Gateway project

Upper-Class Career Timeline

Second and third-year students navigate On-Campus Interview programs, targeted firm outreach, and public interest placement processes. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar structures career programming around regional recruitment cycles and government application deadlines.

Annual Career Events:

• Career Conversations (February): 50+ alumni, 25+ practice areas
• Public Interest Legal Career Fair (February): 100+ employers at NYU
• Equal Justice Works Conference (November): Washington, DC
• Firm and organization receptions: ongoing throughout academic year

Students maintain active Symplicity accounts, updating profiles with new experiences, modified practice area interests, and refined geographic preferences. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar recommends students schedule career counselor meetings at least once per semester for resume review, interview preparation, and strategy development.

Spring Break and Recess Periods in the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar incorporates scheduled breaks permitting student rest, family visits, and independent work completion. These recesses align with traditional academic calendars and religious holiday observances.

Fall 2025 Recesses

Thanksgiving Recess: Wednesday, November 26 through Friday, November 28, 2025

Winter Recess: Wednesday, December 24, 2025 through Friday, January 2, 2026

Thanksgiving recess suspends classes for three days, permitting students to observe the holiday without travel conflicts. Winter recess follows fall examination completion, providing students recovery time before Spring semester commencement.

Law School offices close during Winter Recess. The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar designates this period as an official Law School holiday, with administrative offices unavailable for student inquiries or service provision.

Spring 2026 Break Period

Brooklyn Law School Spring Break: Monday, March 9 through Friday, March 13, 2026

The one-week spring break occurs midway through the Spring semester. Faculty members do not assign work due immediately following spring recess, permitting genuine respite from academic obligations.

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar recommends students utilize spring recess for employment search activities, particularly students pursuing positions outside New York requiring travel for informational interviews or networking events. Career Development Center counselors assist with out-of-state job search coordination during spring planning.

Key Takeaways for the Brooklyn Law School Academic Calendar 2026

The Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 operates on a structured two-semester system with Fall 2025 classes beginning Monday, August 25, 2025 and Spring 2026 instruction commencing Monday, January 12, 2026. Tuition payments require submission on Tuesday, July 15, 2025 for new students and Friday, August 15, 2025 for continuing students for Fall enrollment, with Spring tuition due Monday, January 5, 2026.

Examination periods extend December 8-19, 2025 for Fall semester and April 28 – May 8, 2026 for Spring semester, preceded by four-day reading periods permitting focused preparation. Commencement occurs Monday, May 11, 2026 for students completing degree requirements.

Students navigate the Brooklyn Law School academic calendar through integrated career development programming, religious holiday observances including Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Passover, and Good Friday, and structured support resources provided by Academic Success faculty.

Bar examination preparation timelines coordinate with academic calendar dates, with July 2026 New York Bar Exam registration opening April 1, 2026.

The comprehensive Brooklyn Law School academic calendar 2026 framework ensures students maintain clear awareness of critical deadlines, academic milestones, and institutional expectations throughout their legal education progression.

For more on the BLS Academic Calendar, visit the Brooklyn Law School Calendar Website.

The New School academic calendar 2026 includes three semesters: Spring 2026 (starting Wednesday, January 21, 2026), Summer 2026 (starting Tuesday, May 26, 2026), and Fall 2026 (starting Wednesday, August 26, 2026).

The university operates on a semester-based system serving students across Parsons School of Design, Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts, College of Performing Arts, and The New School for Social Research.

The New School maintains separate academic calendars for its New York City campus at 72 Fifth Avenue and Parsons Paris campus in France. Each calendar contains critical registration dates, withdrawal deadlines, university closures, and degree conferral information maintained by the Office of the Registrar.

The New School Academic Calendar Spring 2026

Spring 2026 classes begin Wednesday, January 21, 2026, and end Thursday, May 14, 2026. The semester includes 114 instructional days plus make-up days scheduled for Wednesday, May 13, 2026, and Thursday, May 14, 2026.

Spring 2026 Registration and Add/Drop Dates

Initial Spring 2026 registration opened Monday, November 3, 2025, allowing enrolled students to select courses for the upcoming semester. The add/drop period closes Tuesday, February 3, 2026, which serves as the Pell Recalculation Date and final day to waive health insurance for full-term courses.

Students can modify their schedules without academic penalty until Tuesday, February 3, 2026. After this date, the withdrawal period begins on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, requiring formal withdrawal requests through the Registrar’s Office.

Registration Milestone	NYC Campus Date	Parsons Paris Date
Initial Registration Opens	Monday, November 3, 2025	Monday, November 3, 2025
Classes Begin	Wednesday, January 21, 2026	Wednesday, January 21, 2026
Add/Drop Period Ends	Tuesday, February 3, 2026	Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Withdrawal Period Begins	Wednesday, February 4, 2026	Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Last Day to Withdraw	Tuesday, April 14, 2026	Tuesday, April 14, 2026

Important Spring 2026 Deadlines and University Closures

President’s Day Holiday occurs Monday, February 16, 2026, with all university buildings closed and no classes scheduled. The census date falls Friday, February 20, 2026, establishing official enrollment counts for financial aid and institutional reporting.

Spring Break 2026 runs Monday, March 16, 2026, through Sunday, March 22, 2026, providing students one week without classes. Parsons Paris observes a different spring break schedule from Monday, April 6, 2026, through Sunday, April 12, 2026, to accommodate French academic traditions.

Spring 2026 Graduation and Degree Conferral Information

The graduation application window opens Sunday, February 1, 2026, for students eligible to complete degree requirements in Spring 2026, Summer 2026, or Fall 2026. Applications close Sunday, March 15, 2026, requiring students to submit degree completion plans through the Registrar’s Office.

Commencement activities occur on Monday, May 18, 2026, celebrating graduates across all schools within The New School system. The official degree conferral date is Sunday, May 31, 2026, when completed degrees are formally awarded and transcripts updated.

Memorial Day Holiday closes the university on Monday, May 25, 2026, following the completion of spring semester courses.

Spring 2026 Semester Length and Instructional Days

Spring 2026 provides 114 instructional days from Wednesday, January 21, 2026, through Thursday, May 14, 2026. This calculation excludes Spring Break (7 days), President’s Day Holiday (1 day), and make-up days (2 days).

The semester structure allows 16 weeks of instruction plus a finals period, meeting federal financial aid requirements for credit hour calculations. Full-term courses must complete 45 contact hours per credit to maintain accreditation standards.

The New School Academic Calendar Summer 2026

Summer 2026 classes start Tuesday, May 26, 2026, and conclude Sunday, August 16, 2026. The summer semester provides 83 days of instruction, allowing students to complete coursework during the condensed academic period.

Summer 2026 Key Dates and Federal Holidays

The summer academic calendar includes multiple federal holidays when university buildings remain closed:

• Juneteenth: Friday, June 19, 2026 (university closed, no classes)
• Independence Day Observed: Friday, July 3, 2026 (university closed, no classes)
• Independence Day: Saturday, July 4, 2026 (university closed)

Parsons Paris observes Bastille Day on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, with building closures reflecting French national holidays. The Paris campus also recognizes Assumption Day on Saturday, August 15, 2026.

Summer 2026 Graduation Application Deadlines

Students planning to graduate in Summer 2026 or Fall 2026 can submit graduation applications starting Monday, June 1, 2026. The application deadline falls on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, providing students adequate time to confirm degree completion requirements with academic advisors.

The summer degree conferral date is Monday, August 31, 2026, marking the official completion of summer academic work.

The New School Academic Calendar Fall 2026

Fall 2026 classes begin Wednesday, August 26, 2026, following orientation week from Monday, August 17, 2026, through Friday, August 21, 2026. Welcome Week activities run Monday, August 24, 2026, through Friday, August 28, 2026, introducing new students to campus resources.

Fall 2026 Registration Timeline

Initial Fall 2026 registration opens Monday, April 13, 2026, for currently enrolled students. The add/drop period begins Wednesday, July 29, 2026, allowing students to finalize schedules before the semester starts.

The last day of the add/drop period falls on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, serving as the Pell Recalculation Date and final opportunity to waive health insurance for full-term courses without penalty.

Fall 2026 Academic Milestone	Date
Initial Registration Opens	Monday, April 13, 2026
Add/Drop Period Begins	Wednesday, July 29, 2026
Orientation Week	Monday, August 17 – Friday, August 21, 2026
Welcome Week	Monday, August 24 – Friday, August 28, 2026
First Day of Classes	Wednesday, August 26, 2026
Last Day Add/Drop Period	Tuesday, September 8, 2026
Withdrawal Period Begins	Wednesday, September 9, 2026

Fall 2026 Semester Holidays and Break Periods

Labor Day Holiday spans Saturday, September 5, 2026, through Monday, September 7, 2026, with the university closed and no classes scheduled. The census date occurs on Friday, October 2, 2026, establishing official enrollment figures.

Initial Spring 2027 registration begins Monday, November 2, 2026, enabling students to plan for the following semester. The last day to withdraw from full-term courses is Tuesday, November 17, 2026.

Thanksgiving Holiday runs from Wednesday, November 25, 2026, through Sunday, November 29, 2026, providing students time away from campus without scheduled classes.

Fall 2026 End-of-Semester Schedule

Make-up days occur on Tuesday, December 15, 2026, and Wednesday, December 16, 2026, allowing faculty to compensate for religious observances or unexpected class cancellations. The last day of full-term classes falls on Wednesday, December 16, 2026.

Winter Session begins Thursday, December 17, 2026, offering intensive coursework through Sunday, January 17, 2027. Winter Break closes the university from Thursday, December 24, 2026, through Sunday, January 3, 2027.

Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday on Monday, January 18, 2027, closes the university. The Fall 2026 degree conferral date is Sunday, January 31, 2027.

Parsons Paris Academic Calendar 2026 Differences

Parsons Paris follows a modified academic calendar reflecting French holidays and academic customs. The Paris campus observes Armistice Day on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, during Fall 2025, and includes a fall break from Monday, October 20, 2025, through Sunday, October 26, 2025.

Parsons Paris Spring 2026 Unique Dates

The Paris campus schedules Work Week from Monday, March 2, 2026, through Friday, March 6, 2026, when regular classes do not meet. Spring Break occurs later than the NYC campus, running Monday, April 6, 2026, through Sunday, April 12, 2026.

French national holidays observed by Parsons Paris include:

• Labor Day: Friday, May 1, 2026 (building closed)
• Ascension Day: Thursday, May 14, 2026 (building closed)
• Bastille Day: Tuesday, July 14, 2026 (building closed, summer semester)
• Assumption Day: Saturday, August 15, 2026 (building closed, summer semester)

The make-up day schedule differs from NYC, with a single make-up day, Wednesday, May 13, 2026, and the last day of classes falling on Friday, May 15, 2026. Commencement occurs on Friday, May 22, 2026.

The New School Academic Calendar 2026 Religious Observances Policy

Students may be absent from class for religious observance without academic penalty. These absences do not count against excused absences noted in the course syllabi. Students must inform instructors at the beginning of each course about anticipated absences due to religious observance.

Faculty members can use two built-in make-up days during the fall academic calendar to accommodate religious observances. Faculty may also deliver course content asynchronously through Canvas when in-person class meetings cannot occur due to religious observance.

All syllabus submission processes require faculty to note any changes to class session dates resulting from religious observance accommodations.

Understanding The New School Calendar System Structure

The New School operates on a semester-based academic calendar system consisting of three distinct terms: Fall (approximately 17 weeks), Spring (approximately 16 weeks), and Summer (approximately 12 weeks). This structure differs from quarter-based systems used by institutions like NewSchool of Architecture and Design in San Diego.

Schools Within The New School System

The academic calendar applies uniformly across five constituent schools:

1. Parsons School of Design – Fashion, graphic design, product design, and fine arts programs
2. Eugene Lang College of Liberal Arts – Interdisciplinary liberal arts education
3. College of Performing Arts – Includes Mannes School of Music, School of Jazz and Contemporary Music, and School of Drama
4. The New School for Social Research – Graduate programs in social sciences and philosophy
5. Schools of Public Engagement – Adult learning and professional development programs

Mannes Prep follows a separate calendar designed for pre-college music students and does not align with the standard university academic calendar.

How to Access The New School Academic Calendar 2026

The official academic calendar appears on the Registrar’s Office website at newschool.edu/registrar. Students can access a Google Calendar version for the NYC campus, allowing automatic synchronization with personal digital calendars.

The Parsons Paris campus maintains a separate Google Calendar version reflecting European academic scheduling and French national holidays. Both calendar versions update regularly to reflect any changes or additions announced by the Registrar’s Office.

Students should verify dates directly with the Office of the Registrar located in Fanton Hall or by calling 212-229-5620 for official confirmation of important deadlines.

The New School Academic Calendar 2026-2027 Preview

The 2026-2027 academic year begins with Fall 2026 orientation from Monday, August 17, 2026, through Friday, August 21, 2026. Initial Fall 2026 registration opens Monday, April 13, 2026, six months before the semester starts.

Spring 2027 classes begin Wednesday, January 20, 2027, with initial registration opening Monday, November 2, 2026. Summer 2027 starts Monday, May 24, 2027, providing three full semesters of academic instruction.

The 2026-2027 calendar maintains the same semester structure and religious observance policies established in previous academic years.

Important Academic Deadlines at The New School

The census date occurs approximately five weeks after each semester begins, establishing official enrollment for financial aid disbursement and institutional reporting. Spring 2026 census falls on Friday, February 20, 2026; Fall 2026 census occurs on Friday, October 2, 2026.

Withdrawal deadlines typically fall two-thirds through each semester. Students withdrawing before these deadlines receive a “W” grade notation without GPA impact. The Spring 2026 withdrawal deadline is Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Fall 2026 withdrawal deadline is Tuesday, November 17, 2026.

Financial Aid and Pell Recalculation Dates

The Pell Recalculation Date coincides with the last day of the add/drop period for each semester. This date determines final enrollment status for federal financial aid calculations. Students dropping below full-time status after this date may face financial aid adjustments.

Spring 2026 Pell Recalculation Date: Tuesday, February 3, 2026
Fall 2026 Pell Recalculation Date: Tuesday, September 8, 2026

The New School vs NewSchool of Architecture: Calendar Comparison

The New School in New York City operates on a semester system, while NewSchool of Architecture and Design in San Diego uses a quarter system. These represent two distinct educational institutions with different academic calendars despite similar names.

Institution Feature	The New School (NYC)	NewSchool of Architecture (San Diego)
Official Domain	newschool.edu	newschoolarch.edu
Location	72 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10011	San Diego, California
Calendar System	Semester-based (Fall/Spring/Summer)	Quarter-based
Spring 2026 Start	Wednesday, January 21, 2026	Different quarter system dates
Schools	Parsons, Lang, Performing Arts, Social Research	Architecture and design focus only

Students searching for The New School academic calendar should verify the newschool.edu domain to access accurate information for the New York City institution.

Commencement and Graduation Timeline for 2026

Students graduating in Spring 2026, Summer 2026, or Fall 2026 follow a unified application timeline. The graduation application opens Sunday, February 1, 2026, for all three conferral dates.

Application deadlines vary by intended graduation date:

• Spring 2026 graduates: Application closes Sunday, March 15, 2026
• Summer 2026 graduates: Application window reopens Monday, June 1, 2026, and closes Wednesday, July 15, 2026
• Fall 2026 graduates: Included in initial Spring/Summer application window

Commencement activities occur on Monday, May 18, 2026, for Spring 2026 graduates. Parsons Paris holds commencement on Friday, May 22, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions About The New School Academic Calendar 2026

The Harvard Law School academic calendar for 2026 spans two academic years, with Spring Term 2026 beginning Monday, January 26, 2026, and Fall Term 2026 starting Wednesday, September 2, 2026.

The HLS calendar includes distinct schedules for J.D., LL.M., and S.J.D. students, with critical dates including Spring Break (March 14-22, 2026), final exams (April 29-May 15, 2026), and University Commencement on Thursday, May 28, 2026.

Harvard Law School operates on a unique term system located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, distinct from semester-based law schools. This comprehensive guide covers all essential dates for the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 academic years.

Harvard Law School Academic Calendar Spring 2026

Spring Term 2026 classes begin Monday, January 26, 2026, for all students following the conclusion of Winter Term on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. Upper-level students complete Winter Term exams on Friday, January 23, 2026.

The Spring 2026 term concludes Friday, April 24, 2026, followed by a structured examination period that varies by student level and course type.

Spring 2026 Examination Schedule

Student Level	Exam Period	Duration
Upper-level and 1L Electives	April 29 – May 8, 2026	10 days
1L Required Courses	May 11 – May 15, 2026	5 days

First-year students taking required courses have their examinations scheduled after upper-level students complete elective course exams. This separation allows the registrar to manage exam logistics across approximately 1,800 J.D. students and 180 LL.M. students.

Spring 2026 Break Periods

Spring Break 2026 occurs from Saturday, March 14, 2026, through Sunday, March 22, 2026, providing 9 consecutive days without classes. Administrative offices remain closed during this period.

Presidents’ Day falls on Monday, February 16, 2026. Classes meet as scheduled, but administrative offices close for the federal holiday.

Winter Term 2026 Academic Calendar

Winter Term classes begin Monday, January 5, 2026, following the winter break that extends from December 17, 2025, through January 4, 2026. This brief academic period focuses on experiential learning opportunities.

Winter Term concludes Wednesday, January 21, 2026, for both upper-level and first-year students. Upper-level students have a one-day reading period on Thursday, January 22, 2026, with exams administered on Friday, January 23, 2026.

Martin Luther King Day occurs on Monday, January 19, 2026, with no classes scheduled and administrative offices closed.

Harvard Law School Academic Calendar Fall 2026

The 2026-2027 academic year begins with distinct start dates for different student populations. First-year (1L) students begin Fall Term classes on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, following a Monday schedule to ensure comprehensive first-day orientation.

Upper-level students (2Ls and 3Ls) start classes on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, allowing first-year students one week of exclusive orientation and foundational coursework.

Fall 2026 Orientation and Move-In Dates

While specific move-in dates for the 2026-2027 academic year are listed as “TBD,” historical patterns indicate:

• LL.M. students: Move-in occurs in mid-August (historically August 11)
• Incoming 1L and Transfer students: Move-in occurs approximately one week before classes (historically August 20)
• Returning 2L and 3L students: Move-in occurs just before upper-level classes begin (historically late August)

LL.M. check-in is mandatory and spans two days, followed by a comprehensive orientation program extending through late August.

Fall 2026 Holiday Schedule

• Labor Day is Monday, September 7, 2026, with no classes and administrative offices closed.
• Indigenous Peoples’ Day (federal Columbus Day) falls on Monday, October 12, 2026. Classes do not meet, and administrative offices close.
• Tuesday, October 13, 2026, all upper-level classes follow a Monday schedule to compensate for the holiday. First-year classes do not meet on this makeup day.
• Veterans Day occurs on Wednesday, November 11, 2026. Classes are held for all students, but the administrative offices close.

Fall 2026 Examination Periods

Thanksgiving Recess spans Wednesday, November 25, through Friday, November 27, 2026.

Fall Term classes end at different times based on student level:

Student Level	Classes End	Reading Period	Exam Period
1L Students	December 2, 2026	December 3-10, 2026	December 11-18, 2026
Upper-Level Students	December 4, 2026	December 5-8, 2026	December 9-18, 2026

First-year students receive additional reading period days (8 total) compared to upper-level students (4 days), reflecting the intensity of foundational legal courses.

Winter Break for all students extends from Saturday, December 19, 2026, through Sunday, January 3, 2027.

Harvard Law School Program-Specific Calendar Information

J.D. Student Academic Calendar

J.D. students follow the standard term calendar with distinctions between first-year and upper-level schedules. First-year students have mandatory orientation activities beginning in late August (specific 2026 dates TBD).

University ID card pickup is mandatory and historically occurs over 2-3 days in mid-to-late August before classes begin.

LL.M. and S.J.D. Program Calendars

LL.M. (Master of Laws) and S.J.D. (Doctor of Juridical Science) Students follow a distinct calendar beginning earlier than J.D. students.

LL.M. residence hall move-in historically occurs in mid-August (approximately August 11 based on 2025 patterns). LL.M. check-in is mandatory and spans two consecutive days.

LL.M. student orientation is mandatory and extends approximately 2.5 weeks from mid-August through late August, concluding before J.D. classes begin on September 2.

International students in these programs should coordinate I-20 processing timelines with these earlier arrival requirements.

Administrative Closures and University-Wide Events

Federal and University Holidays in 2026

Administrative offices at Harvard Law School close on the following dates in 2026:

• New Year’s Day: Thursday, January 1, 2026
• Martin Luther King Day: Monday, January 19, 2026
• Presidents’ Day: Monday, February 16, 2026 (classes meet)
• Memorial Day: Monday, May 25, 2026
• Labor Day: Monday, September 7, 2026
• Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Monday, October 12, 2026
• Veterans Day: Wednesday, November 11, 2026 (classes meet)

Harvard University Commencement 2026

Harvard University Commencement occurs on Thursday, May 28, 2026, three days after Memorial Day. This university-wide ceremony celebrates graduates from all Harvard schools, including approximately 560 J.D. candidates and 180 LL.M. graduates from Harvard Law School.

Individual law school diploma ceremonies typically occur the day before University Commencement, though specific 2026 times are subject to confirmation by the registrar.

Understanding Harvard Law School’s Term System

Harvard Law School operates on a two-term system (Fall Term and Spring Term) with an optional experiential Winter Term, distinct from the semester system used at many law schools.

Differences Between 1L and Upper-Level Calendars

First-year students and upper-level students follow different schedules within the same term structure:

1. Exam timing: 1L required course exams occur later than upper-level and elective exams
2. Reading periods: 1Ls receive longer reading periods before examinations
3. Class start dates: In Fall 2026, 1Ls begin one week before upper-level students
4. Winter Term: Upper-level students have broader access to experiential Winter Term offerings

Clinical Program Calendar Considerations

Students enrolled in clinical programs follow additional deadlines beyond the standard academic calendar. The HLS clinical calendar includes:

• Clinical course add/drop deadlines: Typically mid-September for Fall clinics
• Externship evaluation deadlines: Vary by clinical placement
• Clinical seminar schedules: Often meet on different days than traditional courses

Approximately 70% of Harvard Law School students participate in at least one clinical program during their J.D. studies.

Cross-Registration and Housing Calendar Integration

Cross-Registration Windows

Non-HLS students from other Harvard graduate schools or MIT can cross-register for law school courses during designated periods:

• Fall Term cross-registration: Opens early September
• Spring Term cross-registration: Opens mid-January
• Winter Term cross-registration: Limited availability, early December

Cross-registered students follow the HLS academic calendar for the specific course, not their home school calendar.

Residence Hall Move-In Coordination

Spring semester move-in for students returning from off-campus housing or new mid-year entrants historically occurs Friday, January 2, 2026, allowing time for settlement before Winter Term classes begin January 5.

Specific residence hall assignments come from HLS Housing Services, with move-in coordinated through individual dormitory facilities, including Gropius Complex, Shaw Hall, and Child Hall.

Key Planning Dates for Harvard Law School Students in 2026

Registration and Add/Drop Deadlines

While specific 2026 add/drop deadlines are published through HELIOS (Harvard Law School’s registration system), historical patterns show:

• Fall Term add deadline: Typically 2 weeks after classes begin (mid-September)
• Spring Term add deadline: Typically 2 weeks after classes begin (early February)
• Drop deadlines: Vary by term, usually 6-8 weeks into the term

Students should consult the registrar’s office and HELIOS for exact 2026 deadlines as they become available.

Important Financial Aid and Billing Dates

Tuition billing for Spring 2026 occurs in December 2025, with payment typically due early January before the term begins. Fall 2026 billing occurs in summer 2026, with August payment deadlines.

Financial aid disbursement aligns with the start of each term, requiring students to complete financial aid paperwork 2-3 weeks before term start dates.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Harvard Law School Academic Calendar

Official Harvard Law School Calendar Resources

The authoritative source for all Harvard Law School academic calendar information is the Office of the Registrar at Wasserstein Hall, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138. The official calendar is published at hls.harvard.edu/academics/academic-calendar/.

Students should verify all dates through HELIOS, the law school’s student portal, as rare adjustments may occur between initial publication and the actual academic year. The registrar typically publishes the following year’s calendar in April, meaning complete 2026-2027 dates will be finalized by April 2026.

For clinical calendar specifics, consult hls.harvard.edu/clinical-calendar/. For housing-related move-in dates and deadlines, reference HLS Housing Services directly.

Note: This calendar applies specifically to Harvard Law School in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and should not be confused with other institutions using the “HLS” acronym. International students should coordinate visa timelines (I-20 issuance and SEVIS requirements) with these academic dates through the Harvard International Office.

The Columbia Law School Academic Calendar structure supports J.D., LL.M., and Executive LL.M. students through coordinated orientation, registration, examination, and graduation schedules throughout the 2026 academic year.

Columbia Law School operates on a term-based academic calendar for 2026, consisting of the Spring Term 2026 (January 20–May 15) and Fall Term 2026 (September 8–December 23), with a distinctive January Term bridge session running January 12–16, 2026.

The school serves J.D., LL.M., and Executive LL.M. students at 435 West 116th Street in Morningside Heights, Manhattan, New York.

This guide provides official dates from the Columbia Law School Office of Registration Services for planning enrollment, housing moves, exam preparation, and graduation ceremonies.

Columbia Law School Academic Calendar Spring Term 2026

Spring Term 2026 classes begin on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, following the completion of January Term intensive courses. The term concludes with final examinations from Monday, May 4 through Friday, May 15, 2026.

January 2026 Key Dates

Date	Event	Students Affected
Thursday, January 1, 2026	May 2026 degree applications due	All graduating students
Monday, January 5, 2026	Fall 2025 grade submission deadline for classes with 1L students	Faculty
Friday, January 9–Monday, January 12, 2026	Add/Drop period for upper-year January elective classes	2L, 3L students
Monday, January 12–Friday, January 16, 2026	Legal Methods II and upper-year January elective classes	1L students (Legal Methods II), upper-year students (J-Term electives)
Monday, January 13, 2026	Add/Drop period opens for upper-class Spring 2026 electives	2L, 3L students
Friday, January 16, 2026	Fall 2025 grade submission deadline for classes without 1L students	Faculty
Monday, January 19, 2026	Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday Observed (no classes)	All students
Tuesday, January 20, 2026	First day of all Law School classes	All J.D., LL.M. students
Tuesday, January 20–Monday, January 26, 2026	Add/Drop continues; action required on waitlist notifications	All students
Tuesday, January 27–Sunday, February 15, 2026	Withdrawal from classes permitted (W notation on transcript)	All students

The January Term (J-Term) from Monday, January 12 through Friday, January 16, 2026, offers intensive one-week courses between Fall and Spring terms. Upper-year students can enroll in specialized electives, while 1L students complete Legal Methods II during this period.

February 2026 Columbia Law Academic Calendar Dates

Thursday, February 6, 2026 marks the grade submission deadline for Legal Methods II and upper-year January elective courses. The conferral of February 2026 degrees occurs on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

Date	Event	Program
Thursday, February 6, 2026	Legal Methods II and upper-year January elective 2026 grade submission deadline	All J-Term courses
Wednesday, February 11, 2026	Conferral of February 2026 degrees	Graduating students
Sunday, February 15, 2026	Final deadline to withdraw from Spring 2026 course with W grade	All students
Tuesday, February 17, 2026	Executive LL.M. Class of 2026 Welcome Webinar	Executive LL.M. students
Friday, February 20, 2026	First day of online classes for Executive LL.M. Class of 2026	Executive LL.M. students

After Sunday, February 15, 2026, students withdrawing from courses receive an F grade rather than a W notation on their transcript.

March 2026 Spring Break and Pro Bono Deadlines

Columbia Law School Spring Recess runs from Sunday, March 16 through Friday, March 20, 2026, providing a one-week break during the spring term. Third-year J.D. students must register their Pro Bono Project by Sunday, March 1, 2026.

The Pro Bono requirement ensures graduating J.D. students complete 40 hours of volunteer legal work before receiving their degree. Registration involves submitting project details through the Public Interest Law Center portal.

April 2026 End-of-Term Deadlines

Wednesday, April 29, 2026 serves as the last day of Law School classes for Spring Term 2026. Multiple critical deadlines converge in April:

Deadline	Requirement	Students Affected
Wednesday, April 1, 2026	Final draft of Major Writing Credit paper due	3L J.D. students
Wednesday, April 1, 2026	All outstanding Fall 2025 written work with extensions due	All students
Wednesday, April 29, 2026	Last day of Law School classes	All students
Wednesday, April 29, 2026	Final day for 2Ls and 3Ls to submit digital Grade Adjustment form for Credit/Fail option	2L, 3L students

The Major Writing Credit fulfills Columbia Law School’s writing requirement through substantial research papers supervised by faculty members. Students must discuss alternative deadlines with supervising professors if extensions are necessary.

May 2026 Exam Period and Graduation

The Columbia Law School Spring 2026 exam period runs from Monday, May 4 through Friday, May 15, 2026. First-year students begin examinations on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, one day after upper-year students.

Study Period Schedule

• Upper-year students: Thursday, April 30–Saturday, May 3, 2026 (4 days)
• 1L students: Thursday, April 30–Monday, May 4, 2026 (5 days)

May 2026 Critical Deadlines

Date	Event	Details
Friday, May 1, 2026	All outstanding Spring 2026 written work due for May 2026 degree candidates	J.D. and LL.M. graduating students
Friday, May 1, 2026	LL.M. Essay final copy due to Office of Graduate Degree Programs	May 2026 LL.M. candidates
Monday, May 4–Friday, May 15, 2026	Spring 2026 exam period	All students
Monday, May 4, 2026	Last day of classes at other Columbia University divisions	Cross-registered students
Friday, May 8, 2026	Last day of online classes for Executive LL.M. Class of 2026	Executive LL.M. students
Monday, May 11–Monday, May 18, 2026	Executive LL.M. Spring exam period	Executive LL.M. students
Friday, May 15, 2026	Spring 2026 grade submission deadline for graduating students	Faculty
Friday, May 15, 2026	Due date for submission of Spring 2026 written work (continuing students)	Non-graduating students
Friday, May 15, 2026	Spring 2026 term ends	All students
Saturday, May 17, 2026	Law School Graduation Ceremony	Graduating J.D., LL.M. students
Wednesday, May 20, 2026	University Commencement and Degree Conferral	All Columbia University graduates
Friday, May 22, 2026	Executive LL.M. Class of 2026 on-campus orientation	Executive LL.M. students
Tuesday, May 26, 2026	First day of on-campus classes for Executive LL.M. Class of 2026	Executive LL.M. students
Friday, May 29, 2026	Spring 2026 grade submission deadline for classes with 1L students	Faculty
Friday, May 29, 2026	Spring 2026 grade submission deadline for classes with 150 or fewer continuing students	Faculty

The Law School Graduation Ceremony on Saturday, May 17, 2026 takes place separately from University Commencement on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. Degree conferral occurs officially at University Commencement.

June 2026 Post-Term Deadlines

Thursday, June 11, 2026 marks the Spring 2026 grade submission deadline for continuing students in classes with enrollment of 150 or more students. The Class of 2027 begins federal clerkship application review in June 2026 (specific date to be determined).

Federal clerkship applications represent competitive opportunities for graduates seeking judicial clerkships with federal judges. The Office of Career Services coordinates application reviews and recommendations.

Columbia Law School Academic Calendar Fall Term 2026

Fall Term 2026 classes begin on Tuesday, September 8, 2026, following Labor Day. The term runs through Tuesday, December 8, 2026, with final examinations extending to Tuesday, December 22, 2026.

August 2026 Orientation and Pre-Term Sessions

Columbia Law School conducts distinct orientation programs for J.D. and LL.M. students in August 2026. The LL.M. Class of 2027 orientation begins on Monday, August 17, 2026, while 1L J.D. orientation runs Monday, August 24–Wednesday, August 26, 2026.

Date	Event	Students
Saturday, August 1, 2026	Outstanding grades converted to F	Students with incomplete work
Wednesday, August 5, 2026	Last day of on-campus classes for Executive LL.M. Class of 2026	Executive LL.M. students
Monday, August 10–Friday, August 14, 2026	Summer II final exams for Executive LL.M. Class of 2026	Executive LL.M. students
Monday, August 17, 2026	First day of program for LL.M. Class of 2027	LL.M. students
Wednesday, August 19, 2026	Start of LL.M. classes in Introduction to American Law and LL.M. Legal Research & Writing	LL.M. students
Friday, August 21, 2026	First day of final online classes for Executive LL.M. Class of 2026	Executive LL.M. students
Monday, August 24–Wednesday, August 26, 2026	1L J.D. Orientation	First-year J.D. students
Thursday, August 27, 2026	Start of 1L classes in Legal Methods I and Legal Practice Workshop I	1L students

The LL.M. Introduction to American Law course runs from Wednesday, August 19 through Friday, September 4, 2026, providing international students with foundational knowledge of the U.S. legal system before regular fall classes begin.

September 2026 Fall Term Start

Monday, September 1, 2026 serves as the deadline for October 2026 degree candidates to submit outstanding 2025-26 written work and degree applications. Labor Day falls on Monday, September 7, 2026, with no classes scheduled.

Date	Event	Details
Monday, September 1, 2026	Deadline for October 2026 degree candidates to submit outstanding 2025-26 written work	Graduating students
Monday, September 1, 2026	Degree application deadline for October 2026 degree candidates	Graduating students
Friday, September 4, 2026	Last day of 1L class Legal Methods I and LL.M. class Introduction to American Law	1L and LL.M. students
Monday, September 7, 2026	Labor Day (no classes)	All students
Tuesday, September 8, 2026	First day of Fall 2026 term classes	All students
Tuesday, September 8–Monday, September 14, 2026	Add/Drop period; action required on waitlist notifications	All students
Monday, September 14, 2026	Digital registration forms on LawNet due	All students
Monday, September 14–Thursday, October 15, 2026	Withdrawal from classes permitted (W notation on transcript)	All students
Wednesday, September 23, 2026	Last day of final online classes for Executive LL.M. Class of 2026	Executive LL.M. students
Friday, September 25–Wednesday, September 30, 2026	Final exam period for Executive LL.M. Class of 2026	Executive LL.M. students
Friday, September 25, 2026	Final exam for LL.M. class Introduction to American Law	LL.M. students

After the Add/Drop period ends on Monday, September 14, 2026, all course changes (excluding withdrawals) require Rules Committee petition approval.

October 2026 Midterm Period

First-year students take midterm examinations from Monday, October 26 through Friday, October 30, 2026. These examinations provide 1L students with early feedback on their performance in required courses.

Date	Event	Students Affected
Monday, October 5, 2026	Grading deadline for Introduction to American Law	LL.M. faculty
Thursday, October 15, 2026	Deadline to submit outstanding 2025-26 written work for all upper-year courses	Upper-year students
Thursday, October 15, 2026	Deadline to withdraw from current course with W notation	All students
Wednesday, October 21, 2026	Conferral of October 2026 degrees	Graduating students
Monday, October 26–Friday, October 30, 2026	1L midterm exam period	First-year students

November 2026 Fall Term Continuation

Sunday, November 1, 2026 marks the degree application deadline for February 2027 degree candidates. Election Day on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 is observed with no classes scheduled.

Date	Event	Details
Sunday, November 1, 2026	Degree application deadline for February 2027 degree candidates	Spring graduates
Tuesday, November 3, 2026	Election Day (no classes)	All students
Sunday, November 15, 2026	Faculty grade submission deadline for all outstanding 2025-26 written work with extensions	Faculty
Thursday, November 26–Friday, November 27, 2026	Thanksgiving Holiday (no classes)	All students

Add/Drop Phase I dates for Spring 2027 enrollment are to be determined and will be announced by the Office of Registration Services.

December 2026 Fall Exam Period

Tuesday, December 8, 2026 represents the last day of Law School classes for Fall Term 2026. Final examinations begin on Thursday, December 11, 2026 and continue through Tuesday, December 22, 2026.

Date	Event	Students
Tuesday, December 8, 2026	Last day of Law School classes	All students
Tuesday, December 8, 2026	Last day for 2Ls and 3Ls to submit digital Grade Adjustment form for Credit/Fail	2L, 3L students
Wednesday, December 9–Thursday, December 10, 2026	Upper-year study days	2L, 3L students
Wednesday, December 9–Sunday, December 13, 2026	1L study period	First-year students
Friday, December 11–Tuesday, December 22, 2026	Fall 2026 exam period	All students
Monday, December 14, 2026	1L exams begin	First-year students
Tuesday, December 23, 2026	Fall 2026 term ends; due date for submission of Fall 2026 written work	All students
Thursday, December 31, 2026	Deadline to submit outstanding written work for February 2027 LL.M. degree candidates	LL.M. graduating students

The Fall 2026 term officially ends on Tuesday, December 23, 2026, which also serves as the last day for rescheduled examinations.

Columbia Law School Program-Specific Calendar Information

Columbia Law School operates three distinct degree programs with overlapping but differentiated academic calendars: the J.D. program, LL.M. program, and Executive LL.M. program. Understanding program-specific dates prevents missed deadlines and scheduling conflicts.

J.D. Program Calendar (1L, 2L, 3L Students)

First-year J.D. students follow a structured curriculum with mandatory orientation and Legal Methods courses. The 1L orientation for Fall 2026 occurs Monday, August 24–Wednesday, August 26, 2026, preceding the start of Legal Methods I on Thursday, August 27, 2026.

1L-Specific Dates Spring 2026

• Monday, January 12–Friday, January 16, 2026: Legal Methods II (mandatory intensive course)
• Monday, May 5, 2026: 1L final examinations begin (one day after upper-year exams)
• Monday, May 4, 2026: 1L study period begins (5 days total)

Upper-Year (2L, 3L) J.D. Dates

Second and third-year students access broader elective options, including January Term courses. Key deadlines include:

• Sunday, March 1, 2026: 3L Pro Bono Project registration deadline
• Wednesday, April 1, 2026: 3L Major Writing Credit paper final draft due
• Wednesday, April 29, 2026: Last day to submit Credit/Fail grade adjustment form

LL.M. Program Calendar 2026

LL.M. students begin their program earlier than J.D. students, with the LL.M. Class of 2027 orientation starting Monday, August 17, 2026. Introduction to American Law classes commence Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

LL.M. Program Date	Event	Duration
Monday, August 17, 2026	LL.M. orientation begins	Varies by program
Wednesday, August 19, 2026	Introduction to American Law starts	August 19–September 4, 2026
Wednesday, August 19, 2026	LL.M. Legal Research & Writing starts	August 19–September 4, 2026
Friday, September 25, 2026	Introduction to American Law final exam	Single exam day
Monday, October 5, 2026	Introduction to American Law grading deadline	Faculty deadline

LL.M. Graduation Requirements Spring 2026

May 2026 LL.M. degree candidates must submit their LL.M. Essay final copy to the Office of Graduate Degree Programs by Friday, May 1, 2026. Students should discuss deadline extensions with supervising professors in advance.

Executive LL.M. Program Calendar

The Executive LL.M. Class of 2026 follows a hybrid online and on-campus schedule, distinguishing it from traditional programs. Online classes begin Friday, February 20, 2026, following a welcome webinar on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

Executive LL.M. Class of 2026 Schedule

Date	Event	Format
Tuesday, February 17, 2026	Welcome webinar	Virtual
Friday, February 20, 2026	First day of online classes	Online
Friday, May 8, 2026	Last day of online classes	Online
Monday, May 11–Monday, May 18, 2026	Spring exam period	Online exams
Friday, May 22, 2026	On-campus orientation	In-person, New York
Tuesday, May 26, 2026	First day of on-campus classes	In-person
Wednesday, August 5, 2026	Last day of on-campus classes	In-person
Monday, August 10–Friday, August 14, 2026	Summer II final exams	On-campus
Friday, August 21, 2026	First day of final online classes	Online
Wednesday, September 23, 2026	Last day of final online classes	Online
Friday, September 25–Wednesday, September 30, 2026	Final exam period	Online exams

The Executive LL.M. program accommodates working professionals through this flexible format, allowing students to complete coursework while maintaining careers.

Important Columbia Law School Academic Deadlines and Policies

Add/Drop Period Procedures

Columbia Law School operates multiple Add/Drop registration windows depending on student year and term. Students must take action on waitlist notifications during designated periods.

Spring 2026 Add/Drop Timeline

• Friday, January 9–Monday, January 12, 2026: Upper-year January elective Add/Drop
• Monday, January 13, 2026: Spring 2026 elective Add/Drop opens for upper-class students
• Tuesday, January 20–Monday, January 26, 2026: General Add/Drop period (action required on waitlists)

Fall 2026 Add/Drop Timeline

• Tuesday, September 8–Monday, September 14, 2026: Add/Drop period for all students
• Monday, September 14, 2026: Digital registration forms on LawNet due
• To be determined: Add/Drop Phase I for Spring 2027 courses

After Add/Drop periods close, all course changes require Rules Committee petition approval, except for withdrawals during designated withdrawal periods.

Withdrawal Policies and Transcript Notations

Students may withdraw from courses during specified periods, resulting in different transcript notations depending on timing.

Spring 2026 Withdrawal Periods

Period	Transcript Notation	Deadline
Tuesday, January 27–Sunday, February 15, 2026	W (Withdrawal)	February 15, 2026
After Sunday, February 15, 2026	F (Failing grade)	No withdrawal permitted

Fall 2026 Withdrawal Periods

• Monday, September 14–Thursday, October 15, 2026: Withdrawal permitted with W notation
• After Thursday, October 15, 2026: No withdrawal permitted; F grade recorded

The Credit/Fail grade adjustment option provides flexibility for upper-year students. The deadlines are:

• Spring 2026: Wednesday, April 29, 2026
• Fall 2026: Tuesday, December 8, 2026

Grade Submission Deadlines

Faculty members adhere to specific grade submission deadlines based on student level and class enrollment size. These deadlines ensure students receive grades before registration for subsequent terms.

Spring 2026 Faculty Grade Deadlines

Deadline	Course Type
Thursday, February 6, 2026	Legal Methods II and January elective courses
Friday, May 15, 2026	All graduating student courses
Friday, May 29, 2026	Courses with 1L students; courses with ≤150 continuing students
Thursday, June 11, 2026	Courses with >150 continuing students

Fall 2026 Faculty Grade Deadlines

• Monday, January 5, 2027: Courses with 1L students
• Tuesday, January 15, 2027: Upper-year courses

Columbia Law School January Term (J-Term) 2026

January Term runs from Monday, January 12 through Friday, January 16, 2026, offering intensive one-week courses between Fall and Spring terms. This unique five-day session allows students to focus on specialized topics or complete required courses.

J-Term Course Structure

J-Term courses meet for extended periods each day, typically 3-4 hours daily, to cover material equivalent to a multi-week regular term course. Upper-year students select from various elective topics, while first-year students complete the mandatory Legal Methods II course.

J-Term 2026 Registration and Deadlines

Date	Event	Students
Friday, January 9–Monday, January 12, 2026	Add/Drop period for upper-year January electives	2L, 3L students
Monday, January 12, 2026	J-Term classes begin	All J-Term students
Friday, January 16, 2026	J-Term classes end	All J-Term students
Thursday, February 6, 2026	J-Term grade submission deadline	Faculty

Legal Methods II for 1L Students

All first-year J.D. students must complete Legal Methods II during January Term 2026. This course builds on Legal Methods I from Fall Term and develops advanced legal research, writing, and analysis skills.

Legal Methods II meets daily, Monday, January 12 through Friday, January 16, 2026. Grades submit by Thursday, February 6, 2026, ensuring students receive feedback before Spring Term courses intensify.

Graduation and Commencement Information

May 2026 Law School Graduation

The Columbia Law School Graduation Ceremony takes place on Saturday, May 17, 2026, celebrating J.D. and LL.M. degree candidates. This ceremony occurs separately from University Commencement.

The Law School ceremony typically convenes on the South Lawn of Columbia University’s Morningside Heights campus, weather permitting. Graduates wear academic regalia and participate in processional traditions specific to Columbia Law School.

May 2026 Degree Conferral Timeline

Date	Event	Degree Program
Friday, May 1, 2026	All outstanding written work due	May 2026 J.D. and LL.M. candidates
Friday, May 1, 2026	LL.M. Essay final copy due	May 2026 LL.M. candidates
Friday, May 15, 2026	Grade submission deadline	Faculty (graduating students)
Saturday, May 17, 2026	Law School Graduation Ceremony	May 2026 graduates
Wednesday, May 20, 2026	University Commencement (official degree conferral)	All Columbia University graduates

Degrees are officially conferred at University Commencement on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, not at the Law School ceremony. Students must attend University Commencement to receive diplomas.

February 2026 Degree Conferral

Columbia Law School confers February degrees on Wednesday, February 11, 2026 for students completing requirements in Fall Term 2025 or January Term 2026. February graduates do not participate in a separate ceremony but may attend May ceremonies if desired.

October 2026 Degree Conferral

October 2026 degrees are conferred on Wednesday, October 21, 2026 for students finishing Summer 2026 coursework. Degree applications must be submitted by Monday, September 1, 2026.

Federal Clerkship and Career Services Timeline

The Class of 2027 federal clerkship application review begins in June 2026 (specific date to be determined by the Office of Career Services). This process supports students seeking competitive judicial clerkships with federal judges.

Columbia Law School’s Office of Career Services coordinates clerkship applications through a structured review system. Students submit draft applications, receive faculty recommendations, and gain access to alumni networks in the federal judiciary.

Clerkship Application Components

1. Application materials review: Career Services staff evaluate cover letters, resumes, writing samples, and transcripts
2. Faculty recommendations: Students request letters from professors familiar with their academic work
3. Judge matching: Career Services provides guidance on selecting judges based on student interests and qualifications
4. Timeline management: Application deadlines vary by circuit court and judge preference

Pro Bono Requirement for J.D. Students

All Columbia Law School J.D. students must complete 40 hours of pro bono legal work before graduation. Third-year students must register their Pro Bono Project by Sunday, March 1, 2026, and complete hours by the project deadline.

Pro Bono Registration Process

Students register projects through the Public Interest Law Center portal by submitting:

• Project description and supervising attorney information
• Estimated hours and completion timeline
• Learning objectives and practice areas

The deadline to complete Pro Bono Projects for May 2027 graduates is Monday, March 1, 2027 (as noted in the 2026-2027 calendar). Students should plan project completion well before final exam periods.

Approved Pro Bono Activities

Columbia Law School accepts pro bono hours from:

• Legal services organizations
• Government agencies providing civil legal services
• Law school clinics and externship programs
• Pro bono panels and brief projects

Direct client representation, legal research, community education, and policy work qualify as acceptable activities. Commercial work and law firm summer associate positions do not count toward the requirement.

Major Writing Credit Requirement

J.D. students must complete a Major Writing Credit to satisfy Columbia Law School’s writing requirement. Third-year students must submit final drafts by Wednesday, April 1, 2026.

The Major Writing Credit involves substantial legal research and analysis under faculty supervision. Papers typically range from 25-50 pages and address significant legal questions or policy issues.

Major Writing Credit Submission Process

1. Faculty advisor selection: Students identify a faculty member to supervise their project
2. Topic approval: Advisors approve research topics and provide guidance throughout the writing process
3. Draft submission: Students submit drafts according to schedules established with advisors
4. Final draft deadline: Wednesday, April 1, 2026 for May 2026 graduates (discuss extensions with supervising professor)
5. Grading: Faculty submit grades according to standard academic calendar deadlines

Official Columbia Law School Calendar Resources

Students access the official Columbia Law School academic calendar through the Office of Registration Services at Jerome Greene Hall. The registrar’s office maintains authoritative dates on law.columbia.edu/academics/academic-calendar.

Distinguishing Columbia Law School from Other Institutions

Columbia Law School in New York City should not be confused with:

• Columbia College Chicago (arts and media college in Illinois, domain colum.edu)
• Columbus School of Law (Catholic University of America law school in Washington DC, domain law.edu)
• Columbia University Faculty of Arts and Sciences calendar (uses different academic structure)

Columbia Law School operates exclusively at 435 West 116th Street, Morningside Heights, Manhattan, New York, NY 10027.

Contact Information

Office of Registration Services
Jerome Greene Hall
Columbia Law School
435 West 116th Street
New York, NY 10027
Phone: (212) 854-2668

Students should verify all dates with the Office of Registration Services, as the calendar is subject to change. The registrar’s office sends official notifications through LawNet regarding schedule updates or modifications.

2026-2027 Columbia Law School Academic Calendar Preview

The 2026-2027 academic year calendar begins with Fall Term 2026, which starts on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. Complete dates for the 2026-2027 academic year follow the established patterns from previous years.

Fall Term 2026 Quick Reference

• LL.M. Orientation: Monday, August 17, 2026
• 1L J.D. Orientation: Monday, August 24–Wednesday, August 26, 2026
• First Day of Classes: Tuesday, September 8, 2026
• Thanksgiving Break: Thursday, November 26–Friday, November 27, 2026
• Last Day of Classes: Tuesday, December 8, 2026
• Fall Exams: Friday, December 11–Tuesday, December 22, 2026

Spring Term 2027 Expected Dates

The Spring Term 2027 calendar follows similar patterns to Spring 2026:

• January Term 2027: Monday, January 11–Friday, January 15, 2027 (expected)
• First Day of Spring Classes: Tuesday, January 19, 2027
• Spring Break: Sunday, March 15–Friday, March 19, 2027 (expected)
• Last Day of Classes: Monday, April 26, 2027
• Spring Exams: Monday, May 3–Friday, May 14, 2027 (expected)
• Law School Graduation: To be determined (typically mid-May)
• University Commencement: Wednesday, May 19, 2027

Students should monitor official announcements for confirmed 2026-2027 dates as they become available from the Office of Registration Services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Columbia Law School Academic Calendar

This comprehensive guide provides planning information for the Columbia Law School academic calendar 2026. Students should monitor official communications from the Office of Registration Services for any schedule changes or additional details as terms progress.

The calendar structure supports J.D., LL.M., and Executive LL.M. students through coordinated orientation, registration, examination, and graduation schedules throughout the 2026 academic year.

Loyola Law School Academic Calendar 2026 consists of start dates, registration dates, add/drop dates, holidays, spring break dates, other important dates, and deadlines.

Loyola Law School operates three distinct ABA-accredited institutions across the United States: Loyola Law School, Los Angeles (Loyola Marymount University), Loyola University Chicago School of Law, and Loyola University New Orleans College of Law.

Each institution maintains separate academic calendars with different term dates, registration deadlines, and program structures for the 2026 academic year.

This comprehensive guide provides verified calendar information for all three Loyola law schools, including semester start dates, registration periods, withdrawal deadlines, examination schedules, and program-specific timelines for Juris Doctor (JD), Master of Laws (LLM), Master of Jurisprudence (MJ), Weekend JD, and online programs.

Understanding the Three Loyola Law Schools

Three separate law schools share the Loyola name but operate independently with distinct academic calendars, geographic locations, and institutional affiliations.

Institution	Location	Domain	Calendar System
Loyola Law School, Los Angeles	919 Albany Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015	lls.edu	Semester (Fall/Spring/Summer)
Loyola University Chicago School of Law	25 East Pearson Street, Chicago, IL 60611	luc.edu/law	Semester with Weekend JD hybrid
Loyola University New Orleans College of Law	526 Pine Street, New Orleans, LA 70118	law.loyno.edu	Multiple session formats

Geographic verification prevents enrollment errors when prospective students search for Loyola law school academic calendar information. The Los Angeles campus operates under Loyola Marymount University administration, while Chicago and New Orleans campuses function as separate Loyola University entities.

Loyola University Chicago School of Law Academic Calendar Spring 2026

Full-Time JD Program Spring 2026

Spring semester 2026 begins Saturday, January 10, 2026 for Juris Doctor students at Loyola University Chicago School of Law. Classes start after completion of intensive trial practice courses scheduled from Saturday, January 3 through Friday, January 9, 2026.

Event	Date	Day of Week
Advanced Trial Practice Intensive begins	January 3, 2026	Saturday
Trial Practice I Intensive ends	January 9, 2026	Friday
Spring semester classes begin	January 10, 2026	Saturday
Late registration deadline	January 16, 2026	Friday
Martin Luther King Holiday (no classes)	January 19, 2026	Monday
Last day to withdraw with EC (Erase Course)	January 23, 2026	Friday

Registration closes Friday, January 16, 2026 for semester-long JD courses. Students must complete add/drop transactions through the LOCUS system by this deadline. Course withdrawals with EC (Erase Course) status must occur before Friday, January 23, 2026 to avoid grade notation on academic transcripts.

Spring Break and Mid-Semester Deadlines

Spring break occurs Sunday, March 1 through Saturday, March 7, 2026 with no scheduled classes. The university offices remain closed during this period.

Deadline Type	Date	Program
Illinois Bar Exam July application (first filing)	February 15, 2026	3L/4L only
Summer 2026 registration begins	February 17, 2026	All programs
Last day to withdraw from JD course with W grade	March 20, 2026	Full-time JD
Fall 2026 registration begins	March 23, 2026	All programs

Course withdrawal with W (Withdrawal) grade closes Friday, March 20, 2026 for semester-long JD courses. This deadline occurs 13 days after spring break concludes, providing students time to assess academic performance before committing to course completion.

Spring 2026 Final Examinations

Final examinations run Wednesday, April 29 through Thursday, May 7, 2026 for Juris Doctor programs. The spring semester officially ends Tuesday, April 28, 2026, with examinations beginning the following day.

Law commencement ceremony occurs Saturday, May 9, 2026 for graduating students. Memorial Day holiday falls on Monday, May 25, 2026 with university offices closed.

Loyola University Chicago Weekend JD Program Calendar Spring 2026

Weekend JD Class Schedule

Weekend JD sessions meet approximately every other weekend throughout the spring 2026 semester, combining in-person classes with online course components. The program serves working professionals pursuing legal education while maintaining full-time employment.

Session Number	Dates	Format
Session 1	January 17-18, 2026	Saturday-Sunday
Session 2	January 31 – February 1, 2026	Saturday-Sunday
Session 3	February 14-15, 2026	Saturday-Sunday
Session 4	February 28 – March 1, 2026	Saturday-Sunday
Session 5	March 14-15, 2026	Saturday-Sunday
Session 6	March 28-29, 2026	Saturday-Sunday
Session 7	April 11-12, 2026	Saturday-Sunday

First session begins Saturday, January 17, 2026 with late registration closing Friday, January 23, 2026. Weekend JD students face different add/drop deadlines than full-time day students due to the compressed meeting schedule.

Weekend JD Registration Deadlines

Late registration ends Friday, January 23, 2026 for semester-long Weekend JD courses. This deadline occurs six days before the full-time JD late registration cutoff.

Deadline Type	Date	Note
Late registration closes	January 23, 2026	Semester-long courses only
Last day to withdraw with EC	January 30, 2026	Seven days after late registration
Last day to withdraw with W grade	March 27, 2026	One day before Session 6

Course withdrawal with EC status must occur before Friday, January 30, 2026. The W grade withdrawal deadline falls Friday, March 27, 2026, allowing students to drop courses before the final three weekend sessions.

Weekend JD Final Examinations Spring 2026

Final examinations occur Saturday, May 2 and Sunday, May 3, 2026 after a makeup/study date on Saturday, April 18, 2026. The Weekend JD program compresses the examination period into one weekend compared to the extended multi-week schedule for full-time students.

Makeup/study day provides flexibility for students who miss regular weekend sessions due to work or personal obligations. This buffer date occurs three weekends before final examinations.

Graduate Legal Studies Online Programs Spring 2026

Online Term Dates

Graduate Legal Studies online classes begin Monday, January 12, 2026 for spring term enrollment. The online program operates independently from campus-based JD schedules with distinct start and end dates.

Program Component	Start Date	End Date
Online classes begin	January 12, 2026	April 20, 2026
Late registration deadline	January 18, 2026	—
Last day to withdraw with EC	January 25, 2026	—
Last day to withdraw with W grade	March 20, 2026	—

Online programs include Children and Family Law LLM, Children’s Law and Policy MJ, Compliance and Enterprise Risk Management LLM and MJ, Health Law LLM and MJ, Privacy Law Certificate, Conflict Management Certificate, and Cultural Competence, Inclusion and the Law Certificate.

Late registration closes Sunday, January 18, 2026 for semester-long Graduate Legal Studies courses. Students must complete enrollment six days after classes begin to maintain full semester access through the Sakai learning management system.

Online Program Academic Structure

Three terms operate annually with start dates in September (fall), January (spring), and May (summer). Each term maintains independent enrollment periods and withdrawal deadlines.

Term	Start Date	End Date	Duration
Summer 2025	May 5, 2025	August 6, 2025	94 days
Fall 2025	August 18, 2025	November 17, 2025	92 days
Spring 2026	January 12, 2026	April 20, 2026	99 days
Summer 2026	May 4, 2026	August 3, 2026	91 days
Fall 2026	August 17, 2026	November 30, 2026	105 days
Spring 2027	January 11, 2027	April 26, 2027	105 days

Sakai platform remains open from term start through end date, allowing students flexibility in completing coursework according to instructor-specified deadlines posted within each course shell.

Education Immersion Weekend

Annual Education Immersion Weekend occurs each fall at Loyola University Chicago School of Law campus. The in-person event provides networking opportunities and reinforces program learning objectives for online Master of Jurisprudence and Master of Laws students.

Attendance remains optional but recommended for professional development. Students may enroll in LAW 682 to receive one credit hour by completing a 10-12 page paper related to Education Immersion Weekend programming. Contact Assistant Director of Advising and Academic Success Elizabeth Tripp at etripp@luc.edu for registration information.

PROLAW Program Calendar Spring 2026

PROLAW Term Structure

PROLAW classes begin Monday, January 19, 2026 concurrent with Martin Luther King Holiday. Late registration extends through Sunday, January 25, 2026 for semester-long PROLAW courses.

Event	Date	Day of Week
PROLAW classes begin	January 19, 2026	Monday
Martin Luther King Holiday	January 19, 2026	Monday (offices closed)
Late registration deadline	January 25, 2026	Sunday
Last day to withdraw with EC	February 1, 2026	Sunday
Last day to withdraw with W grade	March 27, 2026	Friday
PROLAW classes end	May 2, 2026	Saturday

Course withdrawal with EC designation closes Sunday, February 1, 2026, providing students 13 days from course start to drop without academic record notation. The W grade withdrawal deadline extends through Friday, March 27, 2026.

PROLAW Rome Center Program

In-person courses occur January 19 through May 2, 2026 at Loyola’s Rome Center in Italy. This immersive component provides international legal education experience for PROLAW students.

Summer 2026 registration opens Tuesday, February 17, 2026 for continuing PROLAW students planning enrollment in online capstone courses.

PROLAW Academic Year 2026-2027

Fall 2026 PROLAW term operates online from August 31 through December 12, 2026. Spring 2027 term returns to in-person instruction at Rome Center from January 18 through May 1, 2027.

Term	Format	Dates
Fall 2026	Online	August 31 – December 12, 2026
Spring 2027	Rome Center (in-person)	January 18 – May 1, 2027
Summer 2027	Online capstone	May 3 – July 15, 2027

Capstone course runs May 3 through July 15, 2027 with project submission deadline July 15, 2027. Official program completion and degree conferral occur by end of August 2027.

Loyola University Chicago School of Law Academic Calendar Fall 2026

Fall 2026 Semester Start Dates

Fall semester begins Saturday, August 15, 2026 for Juris Doctor classes. First-year full-time orientation occurs Wednesday, August 12 through Friday, August 14, 2026 before classes commence.

Event	Date	Day of Week
First-year orientation begins	August 12, 2026	Wednesday
Fall semester classes begin	August 15, 2026	Saturday
Graduate Legal Studies online classes begin	August 17, 2026	Monday
JD late registration deadline	To be determined	Friday
Weekend JD orientation	August 21, 2026	Friday

Graduate Legal Studies online classes start Monday, August 17, 2026, two days after campus-based JD programs begin. This staggered start accommodates different registration processing timelines for online versus residential students.

Fall 2026 Registration Deadlines

Fall registration begins Monday, March 24, 2026 for continuing students. Priority registration occurs several months before semester start to facilitate course planning and schedule construction.

Late registration and add/drop deadlines remain to be determined pending final schedule publication on LOCUS by the University Registrar. Historical patterns indicate late registration closes approximately one week after semester start.

Deadline Type	Historical Pattern	2026 Status
Fall registration opens	Late March	March 24, 2026 confirmed
JD late registration	One week after start	To be determined
GLS late registration	One week after online start	To be determined
Weekend JD late registration	One week after first session	To be determined

Weekend JD first session occurs Saturday, August 22 and Sunday, August 23, 2026. Weekend JD orientation takes place Friday, August 21, 2026 before the first instructional weekend.

Fall 2026 Academic Holidays

Labor Day holiday falls Monday, September 7, 2026 with no classes scheduled and university offices closed. Fall break spans Monday, October 5 through Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

Holiday	Date	Office Status
Labor Day	September 7, 2026	Offices closed
Fall break	October 5-6, 2026	Offices closed
Thanksgiving recess	November 25-28, 2026	Offices closed
Christmas holiday	December 24, 2026 – January 1, 2027	Offices closed

Illinois Bar Exam February 2027 application first filing deadline occurs Tuesday, September 15, 2026 for third-year and fourth-year students planning February bar examination attempts.

Fall 2026 Withdrawal Deadlines

Course withdrawal with W grade closes Friday, October 24, 2026 for semester-long JD and Graduate Legal Studies courses. This deadline provides students 10 weeks from semester start to assess academic progress before committing to course completion.

Program	Last Day for EC Withdrawal	Last Day for W Withdrawal
Full-time JD	To be determined	October 24, 2026
Graduate Legal Studies	To be determined	October 24, 2026
Weekend JD	To be determined	October 31, 2026
PROLAW	To be determined	October 31, 2026

Weekend JD and PROLAW withdrawal deadlines extend through Friday, October 31, 2026, one week later than full-time programs due to compressed meeting schedules requiring additional evaluation time.

Fall 2026 Final Examinations and Semester End

Fall semester ends Monday, November 30, 2026 for Juris Doctor classes. Graduate Legal Studies online classes conclude the same date after 105 days of instruction.

Final examinations run Wednesday, December 3 through Sunday, December 14, 2026 with specific dates to be determined upon final schedule publication. PROLAW classes end Saturday, December 12, 2026.

Thanksgiving recess spans Wednesday, November 25 through Saturday, November 28, 2026 with university offices closed. Classes resume Monday, November 29, 2026 for the final two days before semester conclusion.

Weekend JD last session occurs Saturday, November 14 and Sunday, November 15, 2026. This represents Session 7 in the fall Weekend JD calendar, concluding 15 days before traditional JD semester end.

Comparing Loyola Law School Academic Calendars Across Three Institutions

Spring 2026 Calendar Comparison

Spring semester start dates vary by two days between Loyola Chicago and other institutions due to different registration systems and orientation requirements.

Institution	Spring 2026 Start	Spring Break	Final Exams	Semester End
Loyola Chicago	January 10, 2026	March 1-7, 2026	April 29 – May 7, 2026	April 28, 2026
Loyola Chicago (GLS Online)	January 12, 2026	No break	Varies by course	April 20, 2026
Loyola Chicago (Weekend JD)	January 17, 2026	No break	May 2-3, 2026	April 28, 2026

Semester length ranges from 99 to 110 days depending on program format. Full-time JD students complete 109 days of instruction compared to 99 days for online Graduate Legal Studies students.

Registration Timeline Comparison

Late registration deadlines occur between six and eight days after semester start across all Loyola Chicago programs. Weekend JD students face the earliest late registration cutoff at six days post-start.

Program	Classes Begin	Late Registration	Days After Start
Full-time JD	January 10, 2026	January 16, 2026	6 days
Graduate Legal Studies	January 12, 2026	January 18, 2026	6 days
Weekend JD	January 17, 2026	January 23, 2026	6 days
PROLAW	January 19, 2026	January 25, 2026	6 days

EC (Erase Course) withdrawal deadlines consistently fall 13-14 days after late registration closes across all programs. This provides students approximately three weeks from semester start to withdraw without grade notation.

Examination Schedule Differences

Final examination periods vary significantly between traditional JD programs and alternative formats. Full-time JD examinations span nine days while Weekend JD compresses finals into one weekend.

Program	Exam Period	Duration	Study Days
Full-time JD	April 29 – May 7, 2026	9 days	None specified
Weekend JD	May 2-3, 2026	2 days	April 18, 2026 (makeup/study day)
Graduate Legal Studies	Varies by course	Varies	Instructor discretion
PROLAW	April 27 – May 2, 2026	6 days	None specified

Good Friday holiday occurs April 3, 2026 with no classes scheduled and offices closed. This religious observance falls during the final month of spring semester before examination periods begin.

Important Deadlines for Bar Examination Applications

Illinois Bar Exam Registration

February 15, 2026 represents the first filing deadline for Illinois Bar Exam July 2026 application. This deadline applies exclusively to third-year and fourth-year law students planning July bar examination attempts.

September 15, 2026 marks the first filing deadline for Illinois Bar Exam February 2027 application. Students graduating in December 2026 or May 2027 must monitor this deadline for spring bar examination registration.

Exam Date	Application Filing Deadline	Eligible Students
July 2026	February 15, 2026	3L/4L only
February 2027	September 15, 2026	3L/4L only

Bar examination deadlines remain independent of university academic calendars. Students must verify current application requirements through the Illinois Board of Admissions to the Bar website as registration procedures may change.

Summer 2026 Registration and Term Dates

Summer Registration Timeline

Summer 2026 registration begins Tuesday, February 17, 2026 for all Loyola Chicago programs. This early registration period occurs 11 weeks before spring semester concludes.

Online programs operate summer term from Monday, May 4, 2026 through Monday, August 3, 2026, providing 91 days of instruction. Summer session dates accommodate students seeking accelerated degree completion or specialized coursework outside traditional fall/spring offerings.

PROLAW Summer Capstone

PROLAW summer capstone course runs May 4 through July 13, 2026 with final project submission deadline Monday, July 13, 2026. Official degree conferral occurs end of August 2026 after capstone evaluation completion.

Component	Date	Note
Capstone course begins	May 4, 2026	Online format
Project submission deadline	July 13, 2026	Final deliverable due
Program completion	End of August 2026	Official degree conferral

Students must complete capstone requirements within the 70-day summer window to receive degree conferral in August 2026. Late submissions may delay graduation until subsequent conferral period.

Academic Calendar Change Policy

Schedule Verification Requirements

Start and end dates remain subject to change until the University Registrar publishes final schedules on LOCUS. Students must verify current academic calendar information through official university systems before making enrollment decisions.

LOCUS registration system serves as the authoritative source for confirmed course schedules, withdrawal deadlines, and examination dates. Printed materials and website listings may contain outdated information if published before final schedule confirmation.

Office of the Registrar maintains responsibility for academic calendar accuracy and updates. Students experiencing conflicts between published calendars and LOCUS system data should contact the Registrar’s office at registration@luc.edu for clarification.

Program-Specific Calendar Variations

Multiple program formats create calendar complexity requiring careful attention to program-specific dates. Full-time JD, Weekend JD, online Graduate Legal Studies, and PROLAW programs operate simultaneous but distinct academic calendars with different withdrawal deadlines and examination schedules.

Calendar Type	Update Frequency	Verification Method
Full-time JD	Semester	LOCUS registration system
Weekend JD	Session	Weekend JD specific webpage
Graduate Legal Studies	Term	Sakai learning platform
PROLAW	Term	PROLAW program office

Students enrolled in multiple programs simultaneously must track separate calendars for each enrollment. Withdrawal deadlines and add/drop periods differ significantly between programs despite overlapping instruction dates.

How to Access Loyola Law School Academic Calendars

Official Calendar Resources

Loyola University Chicago School of Law publishes calendars at luc.edu/law/currentstudents/registrar/academiccalendars/ for current students and prospective applicants. This registrar-maintained webpage contains verified dates for all program formats.

LOCUS student information system provides personalized calendar views showing enrolled course schedules, withdrawal deadlines, and examination dates specific to individual student programs. Access LOCUS at locus.luc.edu using university credentials.

Program-Specific Calendar Pages

Weekend JD program maintains separate calendar page at luc.edu/law/academics/juris-doctor/weekend-jd/weekend-jd-academic-calendar/ showing weekend session dates and makeup days. This program-specific resource supplements main academic calendar with detailed session information.

Graduate Legal Studies calendars appear at luc.edu/law/academics/graduate-programs/ with term dates for online LLM and MJ programs. Certificate programs follow the same term structure as degree programs.

PROLAW program calendar information exists at luc.edu/law/academics/graduate-programs/prolaw/ including Rome Center dates and capstone course schedules for professional legal writing students.

Key Takeaways for Loyola Law School Academic Calendar Planning

Spring 2026 semester begins Saturday, January 10, 2026 for full-time JD students at Loyola University Chicago School of Law with final examinations occurring April 29 through May 7, 2026. Spring break spans March 1-7, 2026.

Weekend JD program operates separate calendar with first session January 17-18, 2026 and compressed examination schedule May 2-3, 2026. Seven weekend sessions occur between January and April with makeup/study day April 18, 2026.

Graduate Legal Studies online term runs January 12 through April 20, 2026 for spring enrollment with late registration closing January 18, 2026. Three annual terms provide year-round educational opportunities for working professionals.

PROLAW classes begin January 19, 2026 with Rome Center in-person instruction through May 2, 2026. Summer 2026 capstone course requires project submission by July 13, 2026 for August degree conferral.

Fall 2026 semester starts August 15, 2026 with first-year orientation August 12-14, 2026. Registration opens March 24, 2026 for continuing students with specific late registration deadlines to be determined.

Bar examination application deadlines include February 15, 2026 for July 2026 Illinois Bar Exam and September 15, 2026 for February 2027 exam. These deadlines apply to third-year and fourth-year students only.

Academic calendar verification requires checking LOCUS registration system as published dates remain subject to change until final schedule confirmation by University Registrar. Program-specific calendars exist for Weekend JD, Graduate Legal Studies, and PROLAW formats with different withdrawal deadlines and examination schedules than traditional full-time JD programs.

The Bellevue College academic calendar 2026 consists of registration dates, holidays, breaks, add/drop dates, other important dates, and deadlines.

Bellevue College operates on a quarter system with four academic periods in 2026: Winter Quarter (January 5–March 26), Spring Quarter (April 6–June 24), Summer Quarter (July 6–August 19), and Fall Quarter (September 21–December).

This public community college in Bellevue, Washington, serves over 30,000 students annually through its main campus at 3000 Landerholm Circle SE, Bellevue, WA 98007.

Bellevue College Academic Calendar Winter Quarter 2026

Winter Quarter 2026 begins Monday, January 5, 2026, and ends Thursday, March 26, 2026. The quarter spans 11 weeks of instruction with final examinations scheduled across three days (Tuesday, March 24, through Thursday, March 26, 2026).

Winter 2026 Key Dates Overview

Academic Milestone	Date	Day of Week
Quarter Start	January 5, 2026	Monday
Quarter End	March 26, 2026	Thursday
Final Exams Begin	March 24, 2026	Tuesday
Final Exams Conclude	March 26, 2026	Thursday
Grades Posted	March 31, 2026	Tuesday

Winter Quarter 2026 Registration & Enrollment Timeline

Online registration for continuing students begins November 17, 2025, at assigned access times. New and returning students can access open registration starting Tuesday, November 19, 2025, without appointment requirements.

Registration Access Schedule (Winter 2026)

Student Category	Registration Opens	Notes
Continuing Students	November 17, 2025	Time-based appointment system
New/Returning Students	November 19, 2025	Open access, no appointment
BC Employees & Seniors	Thursday, January 2, 2026 (8:00 a.m.)	Space-available basis
Other State Employees	Thursday, January 2, 2026 (12:00 p.m.)	Space-available basis
Waitlist Final Processing	Wednesday, January 7, 2026 (4:00 p.m.)	Last automated run

The last day to register online without instructor permission is Wednesday, January 7, 2026. Classes with available space and no waitlist remain accessible through standard registration until this deadline.

Winter 2026 Add/Drop & Withdrawal Deadlines

Students can drop classes online by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, January 16, 2026, without receiving a “W” grade on their transcript. This 11-day window from quarter start provides flexibility for schedule adjustments.

Critical Drop/Add Deadlines (Winter 2026)

Action	Deadline	Impact
Add/Drop/Swap Without Tuition Charge	Friday, January 9, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)	No additional fees
Change Credit to Audit	Friday, January 16, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)	Grade option modification
Drop Without “W” Grade	Friday, January 16, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)	Clean transcript
Drop With “W” Grade	Sunday, March 1, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)	Withdrawal notation

Instructor permission becomes required starting Thursday, January 8, 2026, for late registration. The online Instructor Permission Process facilitates enrollment through Friday, January 9, 2026.

Winter 2026 Tuition Payment Schedule

Tuition payment for enrollment completed between November 17 and December 12, 2025, is due Monday, December 16, 2025. Payment deadlines adjust based on enrollment date to accommodate varying registration timelines.

Enrollment Period	Payment Deadline
November 17–December 12, 2025	December 16, 2025
December 13–December 25, 2025	December 29, 2025
December 26, 2025 onward	Next business day after enrollment

Winter 2026 Refund Policy

Students receive 100% tuition refunds (minus processing fee) when dropping classes by 11:59 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026. Partial refunds at 50% remain available through Friday, January 24, 2026.

Winter Quarter 2026 Final Examination Schedule

Final examinations occur during regular class meeting times from Tuesday, March 24, through Thursday, March 26, 2026. Exam assignments follow structured patterns based on weekly class meeting days and start times.

Tuesday/Thursday Schedule Final Exams (Winter 2026)

Classes meeting Daily, Tuesday-Thursday, Tuesday-Thursday-Friday, Tuesday only, Thursday only, or Friday only follow this schedule:

Regular Class Time	Final Exam Day	Final Exam Time
7:30 a.m.	Tuesday, March 24, 2026	7:30–9:20 a.m.
8:30 a.m.	Thursday, March 26, 2026	7:30–9:20 a.m.
9:30 a.m.	Tuesday, March 24, 2026	9:30–11:20 a.m.
10:30 a.m.	Thursday, March 26, 2026	9:30–11:20 a.m.
11:30 a.m.	Tuesday, March 24, 2026	11:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
12:30 p.m.	Thursday, March 26, 2026	11:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
1:30 p.m.	Tuesday, March 24, 2026	1:30–3:20 p.m.
2:30 or 3:00 p.m.	Thursday, March 26, 2026	1:30–3:20 p.m.
3:30 p.m.	Tuesday, March 24, 2026	3:30–5:20 p.m.
4:30 p.m.	Thursday, March 26, 2026	3:30–5:20 p.m.

Monday/Wednesday Schedule Final Exams (Winter 2026)

Classes meeting Monday-Wednesday, Monday-Wednesday-Friday, Monday only, or Wednesday only follow this schedule:

Regular Class Time	Final Exam Day	Final Exam Time
7:30 or 8:30 a.m.	Wednesday, March 25, 2026	7:30–9:20 a.m.
9:30 or 10:30 a.m.	Wednesday, March 25, 2026	9:30–11:20 a.m.
11:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.	Wednesday, March 25, 2026	11:30 a.m.–1:20 p.m.
1:30 or 2:30 p.m.	Wednesday, March 25, 2026	1:30–3:20 p.m.
3:00, 3:30 or 4:30 p.m.	Wednesday, March 25, 2026	3:30–5:20 p.m.

Evening classes starting at 5:00 p.m. or later conduct final examinations during regular class hours during finals week. Early morning classes beginning at 6:30 a.m. follow the same pattern, requiring Academic Affairs Office approval for alternative arrangements.

Winter 2026 Campus Closures & Holidays

Bellevue College observes five closure periods during Winter Quarter 2026. These closures affect both class schedules and administrative office availability.

Closure Type	Date(s)	Impact
New Year Holiday	Thursday, January 1, 2026	Campus closed
MLK Jr Day	Monday, January 19, 2026	Campus closed
Campus Community Day	Thursday, February 12, 2026	No classes, offices closed
Presidents’ Day	Monday, February 16, 2026	Campus closed
Professional Development	Tuesday, March 3, 2026	No classes, offices closed
Student Success Day	Monday, March 23, 2026	No classes, special faculty hours

Student Success Day on Monday, March 23, 2026, maintains open administrative offices with specialized faculty availability for student consultations. Classes do not meet, but campus resources remain accessible.

Bellevue Academic Calendar Spring Quarter 2026

Spring Quarter 2026 begins Monday, April 6, 2026, and concludes Wednesday, June 24, 2026. The 11-week quarter includes final examinations from Monday, June 22, through Wednesday, June 24, 2026, with commencement ceremonies scheduled for June 2026.

Spring 2026 Core Academic Dates

Milestone	Date	Day
Quarter Start	April 6, 2026	Monday
Quarter End	June 24, 2026	Wednesday
Final Exams	June 22–24, 2026	Monday–Wednesday
Grades Posted	June 30, 2026	Tuesday
Commencement	June 2026	TBA

Spring Quarter 2026 Enrollment Timeline

Current and continuing students access online enrollment beginning Monday, February 9, 2026, at assigned times. New and returning students enter open enrollment two days later on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

Spring 2026 Registration Access Dates

Student Group	Enrollment Opens	Access Type
Current/Continuing Students	Monday, February 9, 2026	Time-based appointments
New/Returning Students	Wednesday, February 11, 2026	Open access
BC Employees & Seniors	Thursday, April 3, 2026 (8:00 a.m.)	Space available
Other State Employees	Thursday, April 3, 2026 (12:00 p.m.)	Space available
Waitlist Final Run	Wednesday, April 8, 2026 (4:00 p.m.)	Automated processing

Late enrollment using the online Instructor Permission Process begins Thursday, April 9, 2026, and ends Friday, April 10, 2026. Students requiring instructor approval for enrollment must complete this process within the two-day window.

Spring 2026 Withdrawal & Grade Change Deadlines

The last day to drop classes online without receiving a “W” grade is Friday, April 17, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. Students maintain transcript flexibility during the first 11 days of instruction.

Action Required	Deadline	Transcript Impact
Change Credit to Audit	Friday, April 17, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)	Grade option modified
Drop Without “W”	Friday, April 17, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)	No withdrawal notation
Drop With “W”	Saturday, May 31, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)	Withdrawal recorded

Spring Quarter 2026 Tuition Payment Deadlines

Tuition for enrollment completed between February 9 and March 13, 2026, is due Tuesday, March 17, 2026. Multiple payment deadlines accommodate staggered enrollment periods throughout Spring Quarter registration.

Enrollment Window	Payment Due Date
February 9–March 13, 2026	March 17, 2026
March 14–March 20, 2026	March 24, 2026
March 21–March 27, 2026	March 31, 2026
March 28, 2026 onward	Next business day

Spring 2026 Refund Schedule

Full refunds (100% minus processing fee) apply to classes dropped by 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, April 10, 2026. The refund window extends 50% coverage through Sunday, April 26, 2026.

Spring Quarter 2026 Campus Closures

Spring Quarter 2026 includes four closure dates affecting class schedules and office operations. Students should plan academic activities around these institutional closure periods.

Closure Event	Date	Status
Campus Community Day	Thursday, April 16, 2026	No classes, offices closed
Memorial Day	Monday, May 25, 2026	Campus closed
Student Success Day	Thursday, June 18, 2026	No classes, offices open
Juneteenth	Friday, June 19, 2026	Campus closed

Bellevue College Academic Calendar 2026: Admission & Application Deadlines

Admission applications for Winter Quarter 2026 should be submitted by Friday, December 12, 2025, to ensure completion of all entry processes before classes begin. The Office of Admissions processes applications on rolling deadlines throughout the academic year.

Winter & Spring 2026 Admission Deadlines

Quarter	Suggested Application Deadline	Underage Document Submission	Residency Application
Winter 2026	December 12, 2025	December 19, 2025	February 5, 2026
Spring 2026	March 13, 2026	March 20, 2026	May 6, 2026

Underage admission document submissions close at specific deadlines each quarter. Applicants under 18 years must upload required documentation through the portal before these cutoff dates (December 19, 2025, for Winter; March 20, 2026, for Spring).

Graduation Application Deadlines 2026

Students planning to graduate must submit graduation applications by the final day of their completing quarter. Winter Quarter 2026 graduates apply by Thursday, March 26, 2026, while Spring Quarter 2026 graduates submit applications by Wednesday, June 24, 2026.

Financial Aid Deadlines for Bellevue College 2026

The File Complete Deadline for Winter Quarter 2026 financial aid is Sunday, November 1, 2025. Students must submit all required financial aid documentation before this date to receive disbursements at quarter start.

2026 Financial Aid Processing Timeline

Quarter	File Complete Deadline	Tuition Payment Begins	Refund Disbursement Starts
Winter 2026	November 1, 2025	January 2, 2026	January 2, 2026
Spring 2026	February 1, 2026	April 2, 2026	April 2, 2026
Summer 2026	May 1, 2026	July 1, 2026	July 1, 2026
Fall 2026	June 1, 2026	September 17, 2026	September 17, 2026

Pell Grant enrollment level adjustments are finalized on the 11th day of instruction each quarter. Winter 2026 final Pell adjustments occur on Friday, January 16, 2026, while Spring 2026 adjustments process Friday, April 17, 2026.

Financial Aid Appeal Deadlines

Students whose aid was canceled due to prior quarter grades may submit petitions by the first day of the new quarter. Winter Quarter 2026 appeals for Fall 2025 grade-related cancellations are due Monday, January 5, 2026. Spring Quarter 2026 appeals for Winter 2026 grades must be filed by Monday, April 6, 2026.

Running Start & College in High School Programs at Bellevue College

Running Start students attend Bellevue College while simultaneously enrolled in Washington state high schools. This dual enrollment program allows 11th and 12th-grade students to earn both high school and college credits through the same coursework.

Running Start Application Timeline for 2026

Spring Quarter 2026 Running Start applications close Friday, March 13, 2026. High school students interested in dual enrollment must complete the application process, including high school counselor approval and placement testing, before program-specific deadlines.

College in High School (CHS) Enrollment Windows

College in High School courses deliver college-level instruction at participating high school campuses, taught by credentialed high school teachers. CHS enrollment operates on separate timelines from standard Bellevue College registration, with deadlines published through individual high school partnerships.

Bellevue College Quarter System Explained

Bellevue College operates on a quarter system with four 11-week terms annually: Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer. This differs from semester systems used by many four-year universities, which typically run two 15-16 week terms per academic year.

Quarter System vs Semester System Comparison

System Component	Quarter System (BC)	Semester System
Terms per Year	4 (Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer)	2-3 (Fall, Spring, Optional Summer)
Term Length	11 weeks	15-16 weeks
Credits per Course	Typically 5 credits	Typically 3-4 credits
Full-Time Enrollment	12+ credits	12+ credits
Academic Pace	Faster course completion	Extended topic coverage

Students on the quarter system complete courses more quickly but cover material at an accelerated pace. A typical 5-credit quarter course condenses content equivalent to a semester-based 3-credit course into 11 weeks instead of 15-16 weeks.

Bellevue College vs Bellevue University: Key Differences

Bellevue College (Bellevue, Washington) and Bellevue University (Bellevue, Nebraska) are completely separate institutions located in different states. This geographic and institutional distinction creates significant confusion in online searches and calendar planning.

Institutional Comparison Table

Attribute	Bellevue College (WA)	Bellevue University (NE)
Location	Bellevue, Washington	Bellevue, Nebraska
Institution Type	Public community college	Private university
Website Domain	bellevuecollege.edu	bellevue.edu
Academic System	Quarter (11 weeks)	Semester (15-16 weeks)
State Authority	Washington State Board for Community & Technical Colleges	Higher Learning Commission
Founded	1966	1966 (as Bellevue College until 1994)
Enrollment (approx.)	30,000+ students	10,000+ students

Bellevue University in Nebraska operated under the name “Bellevue College” from 1966 to 1994 before rebranding. This 28-year naming overlap creates persistent entity confusion in search engines, particularly for unbranded calendar searches.

Bellevue College vs Bellevue School District K-12 Calendar

Bellevue School District (BSD) operates K-12 public schools on a semester system with different academic dates than Bellevue College’s quarter system.

The school district’s 2025-2026 academic year includes Spring break from Monday, April 6 through Thursday, April 10, 2026—coinciding with Bellevue College’s Spring Quarter start date (April 6, 2026).

Calendar System Differences

Calendar Element	Bellevue College	Bellevue School District (K-12)
Academic Structure	Quarter system	Semester system
School Year Start	Late September	Late August/Early September
Spring Break 2026	No designated break	April 6–10, 2026
Spring Term Start	Monday, April 6, 2026	Varies by semester
Website Domain	bellevuecollege.edu	bsd405.org

Families with students in both K-12 and college systems must coordinate separate academic calendars. Running Start students navigating both institutions simultaneously should reference both calendars for comprehensive scheduling.

Dynamic Dated Classes at Bellevue College

Dynamic Dated classes run on shortened schedules within regular quarters, beginning or ending at non-standard dates. These accelerated courses maintain different registration, add/drop, and refund deadlines from standard 11-week quarter courses.

Students enrolled in Dynamic Dated classes should verify specific deadlines through the course schedule or Student Central. Standard quarter deadlines listed in the academic calendar do not apply to these modified-length courses.

ctcLink Registration System for Bellevue College

Bellevue College uses the ctcLink student information system for registration, financial aid, and academic records management. This unified platform serves all 34 community and technical colleges in the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges (SBCTC) network.

Students access ctcLink through the myBC portal at bellevuecollege.edu to register for classes, view grades, and manage financial aid. The system replaced legacy platforms in 2020 as part of Washington state’s statewide technology modernization initiative.

Bellevue College 60th Anniversary 2026

Bellevue College celebrates its 60th anniversary throughout 2026, marking six decades of higher education service since its founding in 1966. Anniversary events integrate with the academic calendar, including the Birthday Bash on Wednesday, January 15, 2026, and the Diamond Jubilee Celebration on Saturday, April 18, 2026.

60th Anniversary Milestone Events

Event	Date	Quarter
Birthday Bash	Wednesday, January 15, 2026	Winter
Diamond Jubilee Celebration	Saturday, April 18, 2026	Spring

The 60th anniversary milestone creates unique temporal opportunities for campus engagement and community recognition during the 2026 academic year. Students, faculty, and alumni participate in commemorative activities throughout Fall, Winter, and Spring quarters.

Contact Information for Bellevue College Registrar

The Office of the Registrar operates from U-Building on the main campus at 3000 Landerholm Circle SE, Bellevue, WA 98007. Students contact Student Central for registration assistance, transcript requests, and academic calendar verification at (425) 564-2205.

Official academic calendar updates and verification are maintained by the Office of the Registrar at bellevuecollege.edu/current-students/student-central/calendar/. Students should reference this authoritative source for the most current deadline information and quarter-specific modifications.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bellevue College Academic Calendar

This academic calendar information is verified by the Office of the Registrar at Bellevue College. For program-specific deadlines, Dynamic Dated class schedules, or Running Start timelines, contact Student Central at (425) 564-2205 or visit bellevuecollege.edu.

Location: 3000 Landerholm Circle SE, Bellevue, WA 98007
Geographic Coordinates: 47.6108° N, 122.1766° W
Official Domain: bellevuecollege.edu

The Hunter College academic calendar for 2026 operates on a semester system with Spring 2026 classes beginning Monday, January 26, 2026, and Fall 2026 starting Friday, August 28, 2026.

This official calendar serves approximately 23,000 students across undergraduate and graduate programs at Hunter College, a senior college within the City University of New York (CUNY) system located at 695 Park Avenue in Manhattan’s Upper East Side.

Hunter College’s Academic Structure

Hunter College follows the CUNY-standard semester model with distinct academic periods throughout 2026. The institution divides the academic year into Fall and Spring semesters, supplemented by Winter and Summer sessions. Founded in 1870, Hunter operates as the largest senior college in the CUNY system by enrollment, serving students across three Manhattan campuses: the main 68th Street Campus, Brookdale Campus, and East Harlem Campus.

The academic calendar at Hunter College differs significantly from that of Hunter College Campus Schools (the K-12 laboratory schools at 71 East 94th Street, accessible at hunterschools.org). Students seeking college-level academic dates must reference hunter.cuny.edu rather than the elementary and high school calendar maintained by the Campus Schools division.

Key Academic Calendar Components

Registration periods, refund deadlines, and withdrawal dates form the structural framework of Hunter’s academic calendar. The college implements a “7-Day Rule” at semester start, during which students may only add or swap courses. Financial aid certification occurs on specific dates that determine enrollment status for aid disbursement. The Office of the Registrar, located in Room 217 North Building (contact: 212-772-4500), maintains official oversight of all calendar dates.

Spring 2026 Semester: Complete Timeline

Registration & Shopping Cart Dates

Spring 2026 registration opens with the shopping cart in Schedule Builder on Tuesday, October 14, 2025. Priority registration begins Monday, October 27, 2025, allowing specific student groups early access based on enrollment status. The registration sequence follows this pattern:

Registration Timeline for Spring 2026:

Student Category	Registration Start Date
Priority Groups	Monday, October 27, 2025
Continuing Graduate & Doctoral	Tuesday, October 28, 2025
Undergraduate Degree-Seeking	Wednesday, October 29, 2025
Readmit & Second Degree-Seeking	Thursday, October 30, 2025
Freshmen & New Transfers	Monday, November 3, 2025
Undergraduate & Graduate Non-Degree	Tuesday, January 6, 2026

The ePermit system closes Friday, January 16, 2026, preventing students from registering for courses at other CUNY campuses after this date. The waitlist removal occurs Sunday, January 21, 2026, converting waitlisted students to enrolled status or removing them from course rosters.

Semester Start & Add/Drop Period

Spring 2026 classes begin Monday, January 26, 2026, initiating the 7-Day Rule period. During this seven-day window (January 26 through February 1), students may only add courses or swap sections—full drops are not permitted under the 7-Day Rule. Late registration and program change fees apply starting the first day of classes.

The final day to add a class or change course sections is Sunday, February 1, 2026. After this date, students must obtain departmental permission to register late, with this permission period ending Friday, February 6, 2026.

Tuition Refund Schedule

Hunter College implements a graduated refund structure based on withdrawal timing:

Refund Percentage	Deadline
100%	Sunday, January 25, 2026 (before classes begin)
75%	Sunday, February 1, 2026
50%	Sunday, February 8, 2026
25%	Sunday, February 15, 2026
0%	After Sunday, February 15, 2026

Students who drop courses between February 2 and February 15, 2026, receive a “WD” (Withdraw/Drop) grade on their internal record. This grade does not appear on official transcripts and does not affect GPA calculations.

Spring 2026 College Closures & Modified Schedules

Hunter College observes the following closures during Spring 2026:

• Thursday, February 12, 2026: College closed
• Monday, February 16, 2026: Presidents Day (college closed)
• Tuesday, February 17, 2026: No classes scheduled (administrative day)
• Friday, March 20, 2026: No classes scheduled
• Wednesday, April 1 through Thursday, April 9, 2026: Spring Recess (no classes)
• Tuesday, April 21, 2026: Classes follow a Thursday schedule (conversion day)
• Monday, May 25, 2026: Memorial Day (college closed)

The conversion day on April 21, 2026, requires students enrolled in Thursday classes to attend on Tuesday. This scheduling adjustment compensates for Thursday holidays throughout the semester.

Major/Minor Declaration & Graduation Filing

Sunday, February 15, 2026, serves as the census date and final deadline for declaring a major or minor for Spring 2026. This date also marks the end of the Spring 2026 graduation filing period, which opens Thursday, October 16, 2025. Students completing all coursework during Spring 2026 must apply for graduation through CUNYfirst before February 15, 2026.

The Summer 2026 graduation filing period begins Monday, February 16, 2026, and ends Monday, June 15, 2026, allowing students finishing coursework in Summer 2026 to file during this extended window.

Pass/No Credit Grading Option

The Pass/No Credit (P/NC) grade request period opens Monday, March 16, 2026, and closes Wednesday, April 1, 2026. This 17-day window allows students to convert traditional letter-graded courses to pass/no credit grading, subject to program and departmental policies. Students should consult academic advisors before exercising this option, as P/NC grades affect degree requirements differently across programs.

Withdrawal Period & Final Deadlines

The official withdrawal period begins Monday, February 16, 2026, after the 25% refund deadline. Students withdrawing during this period receive a “W” grade on their official transcript. The “W” grade does not affect GPA but indicates the student attended the course before withdrawing.

The withdrawal period ends Monday, April 13, 2026, after which students cannot officially withdraw from courses. The Return to Title IV (R2T4) 60% date—the point at which students have completed 60% of the semester for federal aid purposes—occurs Sunday, April 12, 2026. Students withdrawing after this date may not owe repayment of federal aid.

Spring 2026 Finals & Semester Conclusion

Final examinations run Saturday, May 16, 2026, through Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Most classes end on Friday, May 15, 2026, except Tuesday classes, which hold their final meeting on Tuesday, May 19, 2026. Grade rosters become available to faculty on Friday, May 15, 2026.

The final grade submission deadline for faculty is Thursday, May 28, 2026. Spring 2026 degree conferral—the official date degrees are awarded—occurs Monday, June 1, 2026, for students who completed all requirements.

Winter 2026 Session: Intensive Intersession Courses

Winter 2026 classes begin Friday, January 2, 2026, offering compressed courses between Fall 2025 and Spring 2026 semesters. This intensive session allows students to complete courses in three weeks, with the session ending Friday, January 23, 2026.

Winter Session Calendar Structure

Registration for Winter 2026 opens simultaneously with Spring 2026 registration in October 2025:

Event	Date
Shopping Cart Opens	Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Priority Registration	Monday, October 27, 2025
Non-Degree Student Registration	Wednesday, November 5, 2025
ePermit Closes	Friday, December 26, 2025
Classes Begin	Friday, January 2, 2026
Last Day to Add	Friday, January 2, 2026
Last Day for 50% Refund	Tuesday, January 6, 2026
Session Ends	Friday, January 23, 2026

The compressed three-week format requires intensive daily attendance, with courses meeting multiple times per week to complete full semester content.

Summer 2026 Sessions: Multiple Start Dates

Summer 2026 encompasses multiple session lengths beginning Thursday, May 28, 2026, and concluding Wednesday, August 19, 2026. The college offers five distinct session formats: 5-Week (three separate sessions), 6-Week, 7-Week, 8-Week, and 11-Week sessions. This structure allows students flexibility in scheduling summer coursework.

Summer 2026 Registration Timeline

The shopping cart for Summer 2026 opens Tuesday, March 3, 2026:

Registration Phase	Start Date
Shopping Cart Opens	Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Priority Groups	Tuesday, March 10, 2026
Graduate, Undergraduate, Second Degree	Thursday, March 12, 2026
Readmitted & Non-Degree	Tuesday, March 17, 2026
ePermit Opens	Tuesday, March 31, 2026

The ePermit system closes at different times for different session lengths:

• 5-Week (1st), 6-Week, 8-Week, 11-Week: Thursday, May 21, 2026
• 5-Week (2nd), 5-Week (3rd), 7-Week: Wednesday, June 24, 2026

Summer Session Length Options

Summer Session 1 (5 Weeks): May 28 – July 1, 2026

The first five-week session begins Thursday, May 28, 2026 (Memorial Day is May 25, 2026). Students must complete course selection by Friday, May 29, 2026 (last day to add or change sections). The 50% refund deadline is Sunday, May 31, 2026. The withdrawal period begins Saturday, June 6, 2026, and ends Sunday, June 21, 2026. Pass/No Credit opt-in runs Thursday, June 11 through Monday, June 22, 2026. College closure: Friday, June 19, 2026 (Juneteenth observance).

Summer Session 1 (6 Weeks): May 28 – July 8, 2026

The six-week session follows identical start procedures as the five-week session but extends through Wednesday, July 8, 2026. The withdrawal period ends Friday, June 26, 2026. Final grade rosters are due Tuesday, July 14, 2026. College closures: Friday, July 3, and Saturday, July 4, 2026.

Summer Session 1 (8 Weeks): May 28 – July 22, 2026

This eight-week session provides extended time for complex coursework. The last day to add or change sections is Tuesday, June 2, 2026. The withdrawal period begins Thursday, June 11, 2026, and ends Thursday, July 9, 2026. Final grade submission deadline: Monday, July 27, 2026.

Summer Session 1 (11 Weeks): May 28 – August 12, 2026

The longest summer session spans nearly three months. The last day to add or change sections is Thursday, June 4, 2026. The 25% refund deadline is Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The withdrawal period begins Thursday, June 18, 2026, and ends Thursday, July 30, 2026. Final grades are due Wednesday, August 19, 2026.

Summer Session 2 (5 Weeks): July 14 – August 17, 2026

This second five-week session begins Tuesday, July 14, 2026. The last day to add courses is Wednesday, July 15, 2026. The 50% refund deadline is Friday, July 17, 2026. Withdrawal period: Wednesday, July 22, through Wednesday, August 5, 2026. Final grades due Friday, August 21, 2026.

Summer Session 2 (7 Weeks): July 2 – August 18, 2026

Starting Thursday, July 2, 2026, this session extends through Tuesday, August 18, 2026. College closures July 3-4, 2026, occur during the first week. The last day to add courses is Monday, July 6, 2026. Withdrawal period: Thursday, July 16, through Wednesday, August 5, 2026.

Summer Session 3 (5 Weeks): July 16 – August 19, 2026

The final summer session begins Thursday, July 16, 2026. Students must complete adds by Friday, July 17, 2026. The withdrawal period runs from Friday, July 24, through Wednesday, August 5, 2026. Final grades are due Thursday, August 21, 2026.

Summer 2026 degree conferral occurs on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, for students completing degree requirements during any summer session.

Hunter College Academic Calendar Fall 2026

Fall 2026 classes begin Friday, August 28, 2026, marking the start of the traditional academic year. This semester extends through the December holidays, concluding Monday, December 28, 2026, with final grade submissions.

Fall 2026 Registration Process

The shopping cart for Fall 2026 opens Tuesday, April 7, 2026:

Student Category	Registration Start Date
Priority Groups	Monday, April 20, 2026
Continuing Doctoral & Graduate	Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Undergraduate Degree-Seeking	Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Second Degree & Readmitted	Thursday, April 23, 2026
Freshmen & New Transfers	Monday, April 27, 2026
New Graduate & Doctoral	Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Undergraduate & Graduate Non-Degree	Thursday, August 6, 2026

The ePermit system opens Wednesday, May 13, 2026, and closes Friday, August 21, 2026. The waitlist removal date is Monday, August 24, 2026.

Fall 2026 Add/Drop & Refund Timeline

The last day to drop for 100% tuition refund is Thursday, August 27, 2026 (one day before classes begin). The 7-Day Rule applies August 28 through September 3, 2026.

Fall 2026 Refund Schedule:

Refund Amount	Deadline
100%	Thursday, August 27, 2026
75%	Thursday, September 3, 2026
50%	Thursday, September 10, 2026
25%	Thursday, September 17, 2026

The last day to add a class or change sections is Thursday, September 3, 2026. This date also serves as the Financial Aid Certification date and Senior Auditor registration day. Late registration with departmental permission runs Friday, September 4, through Wednesday, September 9, 2026.

Fall 2026 College Closures & Modified Days

Hunter College observes these Fall 2026 closures:

• Monday, September 7, 2026: Labor Day (college closed)
• Friday through Sunday, September 11-13, 2026: No classes scheduled (Rosh Hashanah observance period)
• Monday, September 21, 2026: No classes scheduled (Yom Kippur observance)
• Sunday, November 8, 2026: No classes scheduled
• Wednesday, November 25, 2026: No classes scheduled (Thanksgiving break begins)
• Thursday through Friday, November 26-27, 2026: Thanksgiving (college closed)
• Saturday, November 28, 2026: No classes scheduled
• Thursday through Friday, December 24-25, 2026: Christmas (college closed)
• Thursday, December 31, 2026: New Year’s Eve (college closed)

Tuesday, October 13, 2026, follows a Monday schedule (conversion day to compensate for Monday, October 12, Columbus Day closure).

Fall 2026 Academic Milestones

Thursday, September 17, 2026, serves as the census date and final deadline for declaring a major or minor for Fall 2026. Verification of Enrollment (VOE) rosters are due from faculty on this date to assign “WN” (Withdrawn/Never Attended) grades to students who never attended classes.

The Fall 2026 graduation filing period runs Tuesday, June 16, 2026, through Thursday, October 15, 2026. Students expecting to complete degree requirements in Fall 2026 or Winter 2027 must file graduation applications during this window through CUNYfirst.

The Pass/No Credit grade request period opens Monday, October 19, 2026, and closes Wednesday, November 4, 2026, providing a 17-day window for grade option changes.

Fall 2026 Finals & Grade Submission

Classes end Monday, December 14, 2026, before final examinations. Grade rosters become available to faculty on December 14. Final examinations run Tuesday, December 15, 2026, through Monday, December 21, 2026.

Faculty must submit final grades by Monday, December 28, 2026. The Fall 2026 semester officially concludes with this grade submission deadline.

Critical Administrative Systems for Hunter College Students

CUNYfirst: Registration & Records Platform

CUNYfirst serves as the primary system for course registration, grade viewing, and degree audit at Hunter College. Students access CUNYfirst through their CUNY Login credentials to register for courses during designated windows, view real-time grade posting, and track degree progress. The system integrates with Schedule Builder for course planning and DegreeWorks for graduation requirement tracking.

Schedule Builder: Course Planning Tool

Schedule Builder allows students to create their academic schedule before registration opens. The “shopping cart” functionality enables students to select desired courses, view scheduling conflicts, and prepare multiple schedule scenarios. When registration opens, students can register directly from their saved shopping carts, streamlining the enrollment process during competitive registration periods.

DegreeWorks: Degree Audit System

DegreeWorks provides automated degree audits showing completed requirements and outstanding coursework. Students use this system to verify major/minor requirements, track general education completion, and plan remaining courses before graduation. The system updates in real-time as courses are completed and grades are posted.

Hunter College vs. CUNY System Calendar Alignment

Hunter College follows the standard CUNY academic calendar with minor campus-specific variations. All CUNY senior colleges (Baruch College, City College, Queens College, Brooklyn College, and John Jay College) observe identical semester start dates, major deadlines, and holiday closures. Campus-specific differences appear in:

• Conversion days (days when classes follow alternate schedules)
• Program-specific calendars for graduate programs
• Bell schedules (class meeting times)
• Campus closure decisions during severe weather events

The unified CUNY calendar structure allows students to use ePermits to take courses at other CUNY campuses, with registration deadlines applying system-wide.

Program-Specific Calendar Considerations

Graduate Program Variations

Graduate programs at Hunter College may follow modified calendars based on program structure. The School of Nursing, Graduate School of Education, and certain doctoral programs implement cohort-based scheduling with intensive weekend or evening formats. Graduate students should consult program-specific handbooks for dates that differ from the undergraduate calendar.

Silberman School of Social Work Calendar

The Silberman School of Social Work maintains a distinct practicum calendar for MSW students. Practicum (fieldwork) requirements include 450 hours per academic year, with specific evaluation deadlines not aligned with general college dates. Social work students must track both the college academic calendar and program-specific practicum milestones.

Continuing Education & Professional Development

Hunter College’s Division of Continuing Education & Workforce Development operates separate session calendars for non-degree courses, certificate programs, and professional development offerings. These courses may begin and end on dates different from standard semester schedules, with registration opening year-round.

Religious & Cultural Holiday Accommodations

Hunter College maintains a policy prohibiting academic penalties for religious observance absences. New York State Education Law Section 224-a protects students who miss classes, examinations, or assignments due to religious observance. The CUNY Religious and Ethnic Holiday Calendar lists observances from multiple faith traditions, helping faculty and students identify potential schedule conflicts.

Major religious holidays during 2026 affecting Hunter students include:

• Jewish High Holy Days: Rosh Hashanah (evening of September 11 through evening of September 13, 2026), Yom Kippur (evening of September 20 through evening of September 21, 2026)
• Islamic observances: Ramadan (evening of February 17 through evening of March 18, 2026), Eid al-Fitr (evening of March 19 through evening of March 20, 2026)
• Hindu festivals: Holi (Tuesday, March 3, 2026), Diwali (Sunday, November 8, 2026)
• Christian observances: Easter (Sunday, April 5, 2026), Christmas (Friday, December 25, 2026)

Students requiring accommodations should communicate with instructors at the semester’s beginning to arrange alternative assessment dates.

Verification of Enrollment & Financial Aid Dates

Verification of Enrollment (VOE) rosters become available to faculty on specific dates to confirm student attendance. Faculty must verify attendance through VOE to assign “WN” grades to students who never attended, preventing financial aid disbursement for non-attended courses.

VOE Roster Deadlines:

Semester	VOE Available	VOE Due
Spring 2026	Monday, February 2, 2026	Sunday, February 15, 2026
Fall 2026	Friday, September 4, 2026	Thursday, September 17, 2026

Financial Aid Certification occurs on the last day to add courses (February 1, 2026, for Spring; September 3, 2026, for Fall). Enrollment status on this date determines financial aid disbursement amounts, with full-time status requiring 12+ credits for undergraduates and 9+ credits for most graduate programs.

Grade Assignment Timeline & Academic Standing

Grade rosters become available to faculty on the last day of classes (May 15, 2026, for Spring; December 14, 2026, for Fall). Faculty receive approximately two weeks to submit final grades, with deadlines strictly enforced to enable timely degree conferral.

Grade Types & Academic Impact:

Grade Code	Meaning	Transcript Appearance	GPA Impact
A, B, C, D, F	Letter grades	Appears	Yes
P (Pass)	Passing work	Appears	No
NC (No Credit)	Not passing	Appears	No
W (Withdrawal)	Official withdrawal	Appears	No
WD (Withdraw/Drop)	Early drop	Does not appear	No
WN (Withdrawn/Never Attended)	Never attended	Does not appear	No
WA (Withdrawn/Administrative)	Immunization non-compliance	Does not appear	No
I (Incomplete)	Coursework incomplete	Appears	No (until resolved)

WA grades for immunization non-compliance are assigned Wednesday, February 25, 2026 (Spring) and Sunday, September 27, 2026 (Fall) for students not meeting New York State immunization requirements.

Degree Conferral & Graduation Ceremonies

Degree conferral represents the official date degrees are awarded, distinct from commencement ceremonies. Students completing requirements must file graduation applications through CUNYfirst during designated filing periods:

2026 Degree Conferral Dates:

Completion Period	Filing Period	Conferral Date
Spring 2026	October 16, 2025 – February 15, 2026	June 1, 2026
Summer 2026	February 16, 2026 – June 15, 2026	September 1, 2026
Fall 2026 / Winter 2027	June 16, 2026 – October 15, 2026	TBA (Spring 2027)

Commencement ceremonies typically occur in May (Spring graduates) and December (Fall graduates), with specific dates announced separately from the academic calendar. Graduation application fees apply, with late applications subject to additional fees and potential delay of degree conferral.

R2T4 60% Date & Federal Aid Implications

The Return to Title IV (R2T4) 60% date marks the point at which students have earned 60% of federal aid for the term. Students withdrawing before this date may owe repayment of federal grants and loans, calculated based on the percentage of the term completed.

R2T4 60% Dates for 2026:

• Spring 2026: Sunday, April 12, 2026
• Fall 2026: Date to be announced (typically early November)

The federal government requires colleges to return unearned aid for students who withdraw before the 60% point, with the student potentially owing repayment to the college or directly to the federal government.

Campus Closure Policies & Weather Alerts

Hunter College follows CUNY-wide decisions for weather-related closures. Evening classes (starting 4:35 PM or later) may be canceled separately from daytime classes during severe weather events. Students should register for CUNYAlert (emergency notification system) to receive real-time closure announcements via text message and email.

January 27, 2026, exemplifies closure communication: The college posted weather alerts regarding potential winter storm impacts, demonstrating the real-time nature of closure decisions. Official closure announcements appear on hunter.cuny.edu homepage, CUNY Alert, and local news media.

Key Differences: Hunter College vs. Hunter College Campus Schools

Hunter College Campus Schools operate entirely separate academic calendars from Hunter College undergraduate and graduate programs. The Campus Schools consist of:

• Hunter College Elementary School (grades K-6, located at 71 East 94th Street)
• Hunter College High School (grades 7-12, same location)

These K-12 institutions follow New York City Department of Education guidelines, with school years running September through June, distinct from college semester schedules. The Campus Schools maintain independent administration, though historically connected to Hunter College’s mission as laboratory schools.

Students seeking Hunter College academic calendar information should access hunter.cuny.edu, not hunterschools.org (the Campus Schools website).

Contact Information for Calendar Questions

Office of the Registrar (Room 217 North Building, 212-772-4500) provides official calendar information, registration guidance, and academic record services. Office hours and specific contact information appear on the Hunter College website.

Academic advisors in individual departments assist with program-specific calendar questions, major/minor declaration deadlines, and graduation planning. Students should identify their assigned advisor through CUNYfirst or department offices.

Hunter College Academic Calendar 2026 Summary Table

This consolidated view presents all major Hunter College academic calendar dates for 2026:

Event	Spring 2026	Fall 2026
Classes Begin	Monday, January 26	Friday, August 28
Last Day to Add	Sunday, February 1	Thursday, September 3
Last Day for 100% Refund	Sunday, January 25	Thursday, August 27
Last Day for 25% Refund	Sunday, February 15	Thursday, September 17
Census Date	Sunday, February 15	Thursday, September 17
Spring/Fall Recess	April 1-9	Thanksgiving: November 25-28
Withdrawal Period Ends	Monday, April 13	TBA (November)
Last Day of Classes	Friday, May 15	Monday, December 14
Final Exams	May 16-26	December 15-21
Grade Submission Deadline	Thursday, May 28	Monday, December 28
Degree Conferral	Monday, June 1	TBA (Spring 2027)

Hunter College’s academic calendar provides the structural framework for 23,000 students navigating undergraduate and graduate education in New York City. Understanding registration windows, refund deadlines, withdrawal periods, and graduation filing requirements enables students to plan effectively across multiple semesters and summer sessions throughout 2026.