CSUSB Academic Calendar

California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB), operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is common among many public universities in California. The academic year typically consists of two main semesters—Fall and Spring—with an optional Summer session for accelerated coursework or catch-up credits. The Fall semester generally begins in late August or early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in mid-to-late January and ends in mid-May. CSUSB also offers a brief Winter Intersession in January for intensive short courses, providing students with flexibility to earn additional credits outside the standard terms. Breaks, including a winter holiday period and a spring break, align with major holidays and regional school calendars.

• Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated), marking the beginning of the academic year with orientation and first day of classes.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 27–30, 2025 (estimated), a short holiday closure for students and faculty.
• Fall Semester End/Finals: December 8–12, 2025 (estimated), including final exams and project submissions.
• Winter Break: December 15, 2025–January 18, 2026 (estimated), an extended holiday period.
• Spring Semester Start: January 20, 2026 (estimated), following the Winter Intersession.
• Spring Break: March 30–April 3, 2026 (estimated), a week-long recess for students.
• Spring Semester End/Commencement: May 11–15, 2026 (estimated), culminating in graduation ceremonies.

• Application Opens: October 1, 2024 (estimated), for Fall 2025 admission via the Cal State Apply portal.
• Priority Application Deadline: November 30, 2024 (estimated), for first-time freshmen to ensure early consideration.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 15, 2025 (estimated), the final date for most undergraduate applications.
• Admission Notification: March–April 2025 (estimated), when decisions are typically released for Fall 2025.
• Commitment Deadline: May 1, 2025 (estimated), the national deadline for students to accept offers of admission.
• Financial Aid Priority Deadline: March 2, 2025 (estimated), for submitting FAFSA or CA Dream Act applications.

The academic calendar at CSUSB aligns closely with other California State University system campuses, reflecting regional norms such as extended winter breaks and a spring recess timed with K-12 schedules. This structure offers predictability for local students and families while providing international students with ample time during breaks to travel or engage in internships. The Winter Intersession is a unique feature, allowing for academic flexibility, though students should note that course availability may be limited. Additionally, the admissions timeline adheres to standard cycles for public universities in the U.S., ensuring accessibility for both domestic and international applicants, though early application is encouraged for competitive programs.