California Institute of Technology Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), located in Pasadena, California, operates on a quarter system, which divides the academic year into three main terms: Fall, Winter, and Spring, with an optional Summer term for research or additional coursework. Typically, the Fall Quarter begins in late September and ends in mid-December, Winter Quarter runs from early January to mid-March, and Spring Quarter spans from late March to early June. This structure allows for intensive, focused study periods and aligns with Caltech’s emphasis on rigorous scientific and technological education. A notable feature is the short breaks between quarters, encouraging continuous engagement, alongside a longer summer period for internships or research projects.

• Fall Quarter Start: September 29, 2025 (approximate, based on historical patterns). Classes begin after a brief orientation for new students.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 27–28, 2025. A short holiday break aligning with the national Thanksgiving holiday.
• Fall Quarter End: December 12, 2025 (approximate). Includes final exams and project submissions.
• Winter Quarter Start: January 5, 2026 (approximate). Resumes after a winter break.
• Winter Quarter End: March 13, 2026 (approximate). Concludes with exams and evaluations.
• Spring Quarter Start: March 30, 2026 (approximate). Begins after a short inter-quarter break.
• Commencement: June 12, 2026 (approximate). Celebrates graduating students with a formal ceremony.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2025 (approximate, based on typical cycles). Non-binding option with decisions typically released by mid-December.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 3, 2026 (approximate). Final deadline for most applicants, with decisions expected by late March or early April.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: February 15, 2026 (approximate). Required for need-based aid consideration, coinciding with admission notifications.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: May 1, 2026 (approximate). Standard date for accepted students to confirm attendance for the Class of 2030.

Caltech’s quarter-based academic calendar aligns with many research-intensive institutions in the United States, offering a fast-paced yet structured timeline that accommodates deep dives into specialized subjects. The short breaks between quarters may pose challenges for international students adjusting to travel or visa schedules, but the extended summer period provides flexibility for global internships or home visits. Additionally, the calendar’s alignment with national holidays like Thanksgiving ensures some consistency with broader U.S. norms, while the emphasis on research often extends learning opportunities beyond traditional classroom periods. Specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on historical data, as exact schedules may not yet be publicly available.