Barnard Academic Calendar

Barnard College, affiliated with Columbia University and located in New York City, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: Fall and Spring, with a shorter Summer Session for additional coursework. The Fall Semester typically begins in late August or early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring Semester generally starts in mid-January and ends in early May. A notable feature of Barnard’s calendar is its alignment with Columbia University’s schedule, allowing for cross-registration and shared academic events. Extended breaks, such as Winter Break and Spring Break, provide students with opportunities for rest or internships, reflecting the college’s commitment to balancing rigorous academics with personal development.

• Fall Semester Start: Late August to early September 2025 (exact date TBD), marking the beginning of the academic year with orientation for new students.
• Labor Day Holiday: Early September 2025, typically observed with a campus closure.
• Thanksgiving Break: Late November 2025 (approximately November 26–30), a significant holiday break for students and faculty.
• Fall Final Exams: Mid-December 2025, concluding the Fall Semester.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to mid-January 2026, an extended break over the holiday season.
• Spring Semester Start: Mid-January 2026, often following Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
• Spring Break: Mid-March 2026 (approximately one week), a key mid-semester pause.
• Spring Final Exams: Early to mid-May 2026, ending the academic year.
• Commencement: Mid-May 2026, celebrating graduating seniors with a formal ceremony.

• Early Decision I Deadline: Early November 2025 (typically November 1), with decisions released by mid-December 2025.
• Early Decision II Deadline: Early January 2026 (typically January 1), with decisions released by mid-February 2026.
• Regular Decision Deadline: Early January 2026 (typically January 1), with decisions released by late March or early April 2026.
• Financial Aid Deadline: Early February 2026 (often aligned with Regular Decision), critical for need-based aid applications.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: Early May 2026 (typically May 1), required to secure a spot for the Class of 2030.

Barnard College’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for liberal arts colleges in the United States, particularly those in the Northeast, with semesters mirroring typical fall and spring cycles. The extended Winter Break accommodates major holidays like Christmas and New Year’s, while Spring Break aligns with regional school calendars, facilitating family time or travel. For international students, the calendar offers flexibility with early semester starts and breaks that allow for potential travel home. Additionally, Barnard’s scheduling considers the urban setting of New York City, with some events and deadlines reflecting the fast-paced environment and opportunities for internships or cultural engagement during breaks. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on historical patterns, they reflect standard practices for selective colleges like Barnard.