George Mason University, located in Fairfax, Virginia, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is typical for many U.S. institutions. The academic year is divided into two main semesters—Fall and Spring—with a shorter Summer term for additional coursework or intensive programs. The Fall semester generally begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in mid-January and ends in early May. Summer sessions vary in length, often running from late May through July or August. This structure includes standard breaks such as a winter recess between semesters and a spring break in March, aligning with common academic practices and providing students with predictable scheduling for planning purposes.
The academic calendar at George Mason University aligns closely with national norms for U.S. higher education, particularly in the Mid-Atlantic region, with semesters mirroring those of nearby institutions. Key holidays like Labor Day and Thanksgiving are integrated into the schedule, ensuring students and faculty have adequate downtime. The calendar offers some flexibility for international students through extended application deadlines and summer sessions, which can help with acclimation or accelerated coursework. However, as exact dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are not yet publicly available, the above timelines are estimates based on historical patterns and typical university scheduling. Students are encouraged to verify specific dates closer to the time through official university communications.
