Dartmouth Academic Calendar

Dartmouth College, located in Hanover, New Hampshire, operates on a unique quarter system known as the "D-Plan," which divides the academic year into four terms: Fall, Winter, Spring, and an optional Summer term. This system offers students flexibility in scheduling, allowing for off-campus opportunities like internships or study abroad during non-traditional academic periods. Typically, the Fall term begins in mid-September and ends in early December, Winter term runs from early January to mid-March, Spring term spans late March to early June, and the Summer term, if taken, occurs from mid-June to late August. The D-Plan’s structure encourages personalized academic paths, with students often taking three terms per year while having one term off, making Dartmouth’s calendar distinct among Ivy League institutions.

• Fall Term Start: September 15, 2025 (estimated) - Classes begin after a brief orientation for first-year students.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–30, 2025 (estimated) - A short break aligning with the national holiday.
• Fall Term End: December 5, 2025 (estimated) - Followed by final exams and winter recess.
• Winter Term Start: January 5, 2026 (estimated) - Classes resume after the holiday break.
• Winter Term End: March 13, 2026 (estimated) - Includes final exams.
• Spring Term Start: March 30, 2026 (estimated) - Begins after a short break.
• Commencement: June 7, 2026 (estimated) - Graduation ceremony for seniors.

• Early Decision Deadline: November 1, 2025 (estimated) - Binding decision with notifications typically by mid-December.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 2, 2026 (estimated) - Non-binding option with decisions released by late March or early April.
• Financial Aid Deadline: February 1, 2026 (estimated) - Required for need-based aid consideration, applicable to both domestic and international applicants.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026 (estimated) - Deadline to confirm attendance for admitted students.

Dartmouth’s academic calendar, with its quarter-based D-Plan, deviates from the more common semester system used by many U.S. universities, offering greater flexibility for students to engage in experiential learning or personal pursuits during off-terms. The calendar aligns with national holidays like Thanksgiving and typically includes extended breaks over winter, accommodating both domestic and international students. For international applicants, the admissions timeline mirrors standard Ivy League cycles, ensuring accessibility, though early planning is advised due to visa processing times. The Summer term option also provides a unique opportunity for students to accelerate coursework or explore specialized programs, reflecting Dartmouth’s commitment to individualized education.