ECUAD Academic Calendar

Emily Carr University of Art + Design, located in Vancouver, British Columbia, operates on a semester-based academic calendar typical of many Canadian universities. The academic year is divided into three main terms: Fall (September to December), Spring (January to April), and Summer (May to August), with the Fall and Spring semesters being the primary periods for most undergraduate programs. The university often incorporates intensive studio-based learning and project periods, which may include shorter modular terms or workshops within the semesters. Key breaks align with national holidays, such as the winter holiday period in December and statutory holidays throughout the year, ensuring students have time for rest and creative exploration.

• Fall Semester Start: Early September 2025 (typically the first week), marking the beginning of the academic year with orientation events for new students.
• Thanksgiving Break: Mid-October 2025 (around October 13), observing the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday with a short closure.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 15 to January 5), including holiday closures for Christmas and New Year’s.
• Spring Semester Start: Early January 2026 (typically the first full week), following the winter break.
• Reading Week: Mid-February 2026 (often aligned with Family Day), providing a mid-semester break for students.
• Final Exams (Spring): Mid to late April 2026, concluding the semester for most programs.
• Commencement Ceremony: Late May or early June 2026, celebrating graduating students with formal events.

• Early Application Deadline: Late January 2025 (typically January 31), recommended for priority consideration and portfolio submission for art and design programs.
• Regular Decision Deadline: Early March 2025 (around March 1), the final date for most undergraduate applications for Fall 2025 entry.
• Portfolio Submission Deadline: Mid-March 2025 (often within two weeks of the application deadline), critical for program-specific requirements.
• Admission Decision Notifications: April to May 2025, with rolling notifications depending on application timing.
• Deposit Deadline: Early June 2025 (typically June 1), to secure a spot in the incoming class.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: Mid-May 2025 (approximately May 15), ensuring consideration for scholarships and bursaries, especially for international students.

The academic calendar at Emily Carr University of Art + Design aligns closely with other Canadian post-secondary institutions, particularly in British Columbia, with semesters mirroring regional norms and breaks corresponding to national holidays like Thanksgiving and Family Day. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating travel and family planning. The university’s emphasis on studio-based learning may result in unique scheduling considerations, such as intensive project periods or exhibitions, which can extend beyond standard class times. For international students, the extended winter break provides ample opportunity to return home, while the summer term offers flexibility for additional coursework or internships. Although specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on typical cycles, students are encouraged to check official university communications for finalized schedules.