Berklee College of Music, located in Boston, Massachusetts, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is typical for many U.S. institutions. The academic year is divided into two main semesters—fall and spring—with an optional summer session for students seeking additional coursework or intensive programs. The fall semester generally begins in early September and concludes in mid-December, while the spring semester typically runs from mid-January to early May. Berklee also offers a unique 12-week summer program, often starting in late May, which allows students to focus on specialized music studies or accelerate their degree progress. Breaks, including winter and spring recesses, align with common holiday periods, providing students with time for rest or professional engagements in the music industry.
Berklee’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for U.S. colleges, particularly in the Northeast, with semester breaks corresponding to major holidays like Thanksgiving and winter festivities. This structure offers predictability for students and families planning travel or professional commitments. For international students, the calendar provides ample time during breaks to return home or engage in internships, though visa regulations may require careful scheduling. Berklee’s emphasis on music performance and production also means that some academic periods may include unique events or intensive workshops, especially during the summer session, setting it apart from more traditional academic schedules. Specific dates for the 2025–2026 year are estimates based on typical patterns, as official calendars may not yet be published.
