FIT Academic Calendar

The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) in New York operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar, typically divided into Fall and Spring semesters, with an optional Summer session. The Fall semester generally begins in late August or early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in late January and ends in mid-May. FIT also offers a unique Winter session in early January for intensive short courses, providing students with flexibility to accelerate their studies or explore specialized topics in fashion and design. This structure aligns with many other institutions in the region, ensuring compatibility for transfer students and collaborative programs.

• Fall Semester Start: Late August 2025 (typically around August 25–28); includes orientation for new students.
• Labor Day Holiday: September 1, 2025; campus closed for observance.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 27–30, 2025; no classes, campus services limited.
• Fall Final Exams: Mid-December 2025 (approximately December 15–20); specific dates vary by program.
• Winter Session: January 5–23, 2026; optional intensive courses available.
• Spring Semester Start: Late January 2026 (around January 26–30); includes returning and new student orientations.
• Spring Break: Mid-March 2026 (approximately March 16–22); no classes.
• Spring Final Exams: Mid-May 2026 (around May 10–15); followed by commencement ceremonies.
• Commencement: Late May 2026 (typically May 20–22); specific date to be confirmed.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2025; non-binding, with decisions typically released by mid-December 2025.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 1, 2026; decisions generally notified by late March or early April 2026.
• Priority Financial Aid Deadline: February 15, 2026; recommended for maximum aid consideration.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026; required to secure a spot for the Fall 2026 semester.
• International Student Application Deadline: January 1, 2026; additional time needed for visa processing and documentation.

FIT’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for semester-based systems, particularly in the Northeast, with breaks scheduled around major U.S. holidays like Thanksgiving and Labor Day. The inclusion of a Winter session offers notable flexibility, especially for international students or those balancing internships in the fashion industry, allowing them to customize their academic timelines. However, as exact dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are not yet publicly confirmed, the above timelines are estimates based on historical patterns at FIT and similar institutions. Students are encouraged to verify specific dates closer to the time to account for any adjustments due to unforeseen circumstances or policy changes.