Bournemouth University, located in Bournemouth, Dorset, UK, follows a structured academic calendar typically divided into two main semesters: Autumn and Spring. The academic year generally begins in late September or early October and concludes in May or June, with a significant winter break around December and a shorter spring break in April. This structure aligns with many UK universities, offering students a balance of intensive study periods and rest. A distinctive feature of Bournemouth University’s calendar is its focus on integrating practical, industry-aligned learning opportunities, which may include placement periods or project-based assessments scheduled outside traditional semester dates.
- Autumn Semester Start: Late September 2025 (typically around September 22–29), marking the beginning of the academic year with induction week for new students.
- Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 15–January 5), coinciding with Christmas and New Year holidays.
- Spring Semester Start: Mid-January 2026 (around January 12–19), following the winter break with renewed coursework and assessments.
- Spring Break: Early April 2026 (typically around April 6–20), aligning with Easter holidays for a short respite.
- End of Academic Year/Exams: Late May to early June 2026 (approximately May 25–June 5), including final assessments and project submissions.
- Graduation Ceremonies: July 2026 (specific dates to be confirmed), celebrating student achievements post-exams.
- UCAS Application Opening: Early September 2025 (around September 3), when applications for undergraduate programs begin via the UCAS system.
- Early Application Deadline (Oxbridge/Medicine): Mid-October 2025 (typically October 15), for competitive courses requiring early submission.
- Main UCAS Deadline: Late January 2026 (around January 31), the primary deadline for most undergraduate applications to ensure equal consideration.
- Decision Notification: March to April 2026, with most offers or rejections communicated during this period for regular applicants.
- International Student Deadline: Late June 2026 (approximately June 30), allowing additional time for visa processing and other arrangements.
- Confirmation of Places: Mid-August 2026, following A-Level results day, when students confirm their acceptance of offers.
The academic calendar at Bournemouth University aligns closely with the standard UK higher education framework, ensuring compatibility with national holidays such as Christmas and Easter, which are reflected in its break periods. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with ample time during breaks for travel or personal commitments. Additionally, the university’s admissions timeline through UCAS adheres to national standards, providing a streamlined process for applicants worldwide. International students benefit from slightly extended deadlines to accommodate visa applications and other logistical needs, reflecting Bournemouth University’s commitment to accessibility and diversity in its student body.
