HCC Academic Calendar

Houston Community College (HCC), located in Houston, Texas, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is common among many community colleges in the United States. The academic year typically consists of three main terms: Fall, Spring, and Summer. The Fall semester generally begins in late August and ends in mid-December, while the Spring semester runs from mid-January to mid-May. The Summer term, often split into multiple shorter sessions, usually starts in late May or early June and concludes in late July or early August. HCC also offers flexible mini-terms and accelerated sessions within these semesters, catering to students seeking intensive coursework or non-traditional schedules.

• Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated, based on typical schedules). Classes begin for the Fall term.
• Labor Day Holiday: September 1, 2025. Campus closed for the national holiday.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 27–30, 2025 (estimated). No classes; campus may have limited operations.
• Fall Semester End/Final Exams: December 8–14, 2025 (estimated). Final exams and end of term.
• Spring Semester Start: January 20, 2026 (estimated). Classes resume after winter break.
• Spring Break: March 16–22, 2026 (estimated). Mid-semester break for students and faculty.
• Spring Semester End/Final Exams: May 11–17, 2026 (estimated). Conclusion of Spring term with exams.
• Summer Sessions Start: June 1, 2026 (estimated). Multiple short-term sessions begin.

• Priority Application Deadline for Fall 2025: June 1, 2025 (estimated). Recommended for early registration and financial aid consideration.
• Final Application Deadline for Fall 2025: August 1, 2025 (estimated). Last chance to apply for the Fall semester.
• Priority Application Deadline for Spring 2026: November 1, 2025 (estimated). Early submission encouraged for course availability.
• Financial Aid Deadline for Fall 2025: July 1, 2025 (estimated). Submit FAFSA and other aid applications by this date for timely processing.
• International Student Application Deadline for Fall 2025: May 1, 2025 (estimated). Allows time for visa processing and other requirements.

The academic calendar at Houston Community College aligns with regional norms for community colleges in Texas, with semesters mirroring those of nearby institutions and accommodating public holidays like Labor Day and Thanksgiving. The inclusion of multiple Summer sessions and mini-terms offers significant flexibility, particularly for working students or those balancing other commitments. For international students, HCC’s rolling admissions and extended application windows provide opportunities to meet visa and enrollment deadlines, though early application is strongly encouraged. Overall, HCC’s scheduling reflects a student-centered approach, balancing academic rigor with accessibility.