Clemson Academic Calendar

Clemson University, located in South Carolina, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar, consisting of fall, spring, and summer terms. The fall semester typically begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the spring semester runs from early January to early May. Summer sessions are offered in shorter, intensive formats, often spanning May through August, catering to students seeking accelerated coursework or internships. A notable feature of Clemson’s calendar is its alignment with major holidays, ensuring extended breaks during Thanksgiving, winter, and spring periods, which provides students with ample time for rest or travel.

• Fall Semester Start: August 20, 2025 (estimated) - Classes begin for the fall term.
• Labor Day Holiday: September 1, 2025 - University closed for the national holiday.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–28, 2025 (estimated) - Extended break for students and faculty.
• Fall Final Exams: December 8–12, 2025 (estimated) - End-of-semester assessments.
• Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (estimated) - Classes resume after winter break.
• Spring Break: March 16–20, 2026 (estimated) - Mid-semester break for students.
• Spring Final Exams: May 4–8, 2026 (estimated) - Conclusion of spring term.
• Commencement: May 8–9, 2026 (estimated) - Graduation ceremonies for eligible students.

• Early Action Deadline: October 15, 2024 (estimated for Class of 2030) - Priority application for early consideration; notifications typically by mid-December.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 15, 2025 (estimated) - Final deadline for fall 2025 admission; decisions often released by early April.
• Priority Financial Aid Deadline: March 1, 2025 (estimated) - Recommended date for submitting FAFSA for maximum aid consideration.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2025 (estimated) - Deadline to confirm enrollment for admitted students.
• International Student Application Deadline: February 15, 2025 (estimated) - Earlier processing recommended due to visa requirements.

Clemson University’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for semester-based systems, particularly in the southeastern United States, with breaks coinciding with major holidays like Thanksgiving and spring break. This structure offers predictability for students and families, while the summer sessions provide flexibility for international students or those pursuing accelerated programs. Additionally, the admissions timeline accommodates a broad range of applicants, with early action options for proactive students and clear deadlines for international applicants to navigate visa processes. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on historical patterns, Clemson’s scheduling consistently balances academic rigor with opportunities for rest and professional development.