Drexel Academic Calendar

Drexel University, located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, operates on a unique quarter system rather than the traditional semester structure. This system divides the academic year into four 10-week terms—Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer—allowing for accelerated learning and flexibility in course scheduling. Typically, the Fall Quarter begins in late September, Winter in early January, Spring in late March or early April, and Summer in late June. This structure supports Drexel’s renowned cooperative education (co-op) program, where students alternate between academic terms and full-time work experiences, often extending their academic calendar to accommodate professional placements.

• Fall Quarter Start: September 22, 2025 (estimated). Classes begin for the academic year, often following a welcome week for new students.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–30, 2025 (estimated). A short break aligning with the national holiday.
• Winter Quarter Start: January 5, 2026 (estimated). The second term begins after a winter holiday break.
• Spring Quarter Start: March 30, 2026 (estimated). The third term often includes spring break in early April.
• Commencement: Mid-June 2026 (estimated). Graduation ceremonies typically occur at the end of the Spring Quarter.
• Summer Quarter Start: June 22, 2026 (estimated). Optional term for accelerated coursework or co-op placements.

• Early Decision Deadline: November 1, 2025 (estimated). Binding option with notification by mid-December 2025.
• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2025 (estimated). Non-binding option with decisions released by late January 2026.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 15, 2026 (estimated). Final deadline for most applicants, with notifications by early April 2026.
• Financial Aid Priority Deadline: February 15, 2026 (estimated). Recommended for timely consideration of scholarships and aid.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026 (estimated). Deadline to confirm attendance for admitted students.

Drexel’s quarter system deviates from the semester-based calendars common in many U.S. universities, offering a faster-paced academic rhythm that aligns well with its co-op program. This structure may require adjustment for international students accustomed to longer terms, though it provides flexibility for summer coursework or internships. The calendar also aligns with national holidays like Thanksgiving and typically includes breaks that correspond with regional norms in the Northeast. Students engaged in co-op experiences may follow a customized schedule, reflecting Drexel’s emphasis on experiential learning over traditional academic pacing.