Duquesne Academic Calendar

Duquesne University, located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar, which is common among many U.S. institutions. The academic year is divided into two main semesters—Fall and Spring—with an optional Summer term for additional coursework or accelerated programs. Typically, the Fall semester begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in mid-January and ends in early May. The university also incorporates breaks such as Thanksgiving, Winter Break, and Spring Break, aligning with national holidays and providing students with time for rest or independent study. This structure supports a balanced academic experience for both domestic and international students.

• Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated based on typical schedules). Classes begin for all students.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–30, 2025 (estimated). Campus closes for the holiday period.
• Fall Semester End/Final Exams: December 8–12, 2025 (estimated). Exams mark the conclusion of the semester.
• Winter Break: December 13, 2025–January 11, 2026 (estimated). Extended break for students and faculty.
• Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (estimated). Classes resume after Winter Break.
• Spring Break: March 9–13, 2026 (estimated). Mid-semester break for relaxation or travel.
• Spring Semester End/Final Exams: April 27–May 1, 2026 (estimated). Includes final assessments.
• Commencement: May 8–9, 2026 (estimated). Graduation ceremonies for eligible students.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2025 (estimated). Non-binding option with decision notifications typically by mid-December.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2026 (estimated). Standard application deadline with notifications by late March or early April.
• Priority Financial Aid Deadline: February 15, 2026 (estimated). Recommended for students seeking scholarships or aid packages.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026 (estimated). Deadline to confirm attendance for admitted students.
• International Student Application Deadline: January 15, 2026 (estimated). Earlier deadline to accommodate visa processing and other requirements.

The academic calendar at Duquesne University aligns closely with regional and national norms for higher education institutions in the United States, particularly those in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions. Breaks such as Thanksgiving and Winter Break correspond with federal holidays, ensuring consistency for students and families. The semester structure offers flexibility for international students, with ample time during breaks to travel or address visa-related needs. Additionally, the optional Summer term provides opportunities for accelerated learning or catching up on credits, which can be particularly beneficial for students balancing academic and professional goals. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical university patterns, prospective students and families are encouraged to verify exact dates through official university communications as they become available.