DC Academic Calendar

Durham College, located in Ontario, Canada, operates on a semester-based academic calendar typical of many Canadian post-secondary institutions. The academic year is divided into three main semesters: Fall, Winter, and Spring/Summer. The Fall semester generally begins in early September and runs through mid-December, while the Winter semester starts in early January and concludes in late April. The Spring/Summer semester, often optional for many programs, spans from May to August with shorter, intensive terms. This structure allows for flexibility in course scheduling and accommodates co-op placements or internships, which are a hallmark of Durham College’s applied learning focus. Breaks between semesters align with major holidays, providing students with time for rest or professional development.

• Fall Semester Start: September 2, 2025 (first week of September, subject to confirmation), marking the beginning of the academic year.
• Thanksgiving Break: October 13, 2025, aligning with the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday.
• Fall Semester Exams: Mid to late December 2025, typically concluding by December 19.
• Winter Semester Start: January 5, 2026 (first week of January), following the holiday break.
• Reading Week: Mid-February 2026, often around Family Day, providing a mid-term break.
• Winter Semester Exams: Mid to late April 2026, typically ending by April 24.
• Spring/Summer Semester: May 4 to August 14, 2026 (approximate), with condensed courses and flexible scheduling.

• Application Opening Date: October 1, 2024, for Fall 2025 intake, marking the start of the admissions cycle for the Class of 2030.
• Equal Consideration Deadline: February 1, 2025, for competitive programs, ensuring priority review for early applicants.
• Confirmation Deadline: May 1, 2025 (approximate), for accepting offers of admission.
• International Student Deadline: March 1, 2025 (estimated), to allow time for visa processing and other requirements.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: June 30, 2025 (approximate), for scholarships and bursaries, with notifications typically by late summer.

The academic calendar at Durham College aligns closely with regional norms in Ontario, where most colleges and universities follow a similar semester structure to coordinate with provincial holidays like Thanksgiving and Family Day. This scheduling offers predictability for students and families while providing ample breaks for international students to travel or adjust to Canadian academic life. The Spring/Summer semester’s flexibility is particularly beneficial for those seeking to accelerate their studies or balance work commitments. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on typical patterns, students are encouraged to check official college communications for finalized schedules and any unique considerations, such as program-specific start dates or campus closures.