BU Academic Calendar

Boston University, located in Boston, Massachusetts, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is common among many U.S. institutions. The academic year is divided into two main semesters—Fall and Spring—with an optional Summer term for students seeking additional coursework or accelerated programs. Typically, the Fall semester begins in early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in mid-January and ends in early May. Boston University also offers unique scheduling features, such as a robust Summer Term with multiple sessions, allowing flexibility for students to catch up or get ahead in their studies. Major breaks, including Winter Break and Spring Break, align with national holidays and provide students with time for rest or experiential learning opportunities.

• Fall Semester Start: September 2, 2025 (estimated based on typical schedules). Classes begin after Labor Day, marking the official start of the academic year.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–30, 2025 (estimated). A short break aligned with the national holiday for family and travel.
• Fall Semester End/Final Exams: December 15–20, 2025 (estimated). Final exams conclude the semester before Winter Break.
• Winter Break: December 21, 2025–January 12, 2026 (estimated). An extended break covering major holidays like Christmas and New Year’s.
• Spring Semester Start: January 13, 2026 (estimated). Classes resume after Martin Luther King Jr. Day in some cases.
• Spring Break: March 7–15, 2026 (estimated). A one-week break for relaxation or travel.
• Commencement: Mid-May 2026 (exact date TBD). Graduation ceremonies for completing students.

• Early Decision I Deadline: November 1, 2025 (estimated). Binding option with notification by mid-December 2025.
• Early Decision II Deadline: January 6, 2026 (estimated). Second binding option with notification by mid-February 2026.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 6, 2026 (estimated). Non-binding option with notification by late March or early April 2026.
• Financial Aid Deadline: February 1, 2026 (estimated). Priority deadline for submitting FAFSA and CSS Profile for need-based aid consideration.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026 (estimated). Deadline for admitted students to confirm enrollment for Fall 2026.

The academic calendar at Boston University aligns closely with regional and national norms for U.S. universities, particularly in the Northeast, where semesters typically start after Labor Day and include breaks for major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating travel and family planning. Additionally, the university’s Summer Term provides flexibility, especially for international students or those pursuing internships and research opportunities. Unique scheduling considerations, such as Patriots’ Day in April (a Massachusetts holiday), may also impact local events or class schedules, reflecting the university’s deep ties to the Boston area. Overall, Boston University’s calendar balances academic rigor with opportunities for personal and professional growth.