IHR Academic Calendar

The Institute of Historical Research (IHR), part of the University of London, follows a traditional academic calendar structured around three terms: Autumn, Spring, and Summer. This trimester system aligns with many UK universities, with the Autumn Term typically beginning in late September or early October and concluding in mid-December. The Spring Term often runs from mid-January to late March or early April, while the Summer Term spans from late April to late June. Unique to IHR, the calendar accommodates research-intensive periods and historical conferences, often extending breaks around major UK holidays like Easter and Christmas to facilitate travel and independent study for its specialized postgraduate and research-focused community. While primarily catering to advanced students, undergraduate programs under the University of London framework may also follow similar timelines.

• Autumn Term Start: Late September 2025 (typically around September 29) – Orientation and induction events for new students.
• Autumn Term End: Mid-December 2025 (around December 12) – Includes a break for Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Spring Term Start: Mid-January 2026 (approximately January 12) – Resumption of classes and seminars.
• Easter Break: Late March to early April 2026 (around March 30–April 10) – Aligns with UK public holidays.
• Summer Term Start: Late April 2026 (around April 20) – Focus on exams and research projects.
• Summer Term End: Late June 2026 (approximately June 26) – Includes commencement or end-of-year events.

• Application Opening: Early September 2024 (around September 1) – Start of applications for the 2025–2026 cycle via UCAS for undergraduate programs under the University of London.
• Early Deadline (Oxbridge and Medicine): Mid-October 2024 (typically October 15) – For specific competitive programs, if applicable.
• Regular Decision Deadline: Late January 2025 (around January 31) – Standard UCAS deadline for most undergraduate courses.
• Decision Notification: March to May 2025 – Applicants typically receive offers or rejections during this period.
• Confirmation Deadline: Early June 2025 (approximately June 5) – Deadline to accept offers and secure places.

The academic calendar at the Institute of Historical Research, University of London, aligns closely with the broader UK higher education system, particularly in its adherence to the trimester structure and recognition of national holidays such as Christmas and Easter. This scheduling offers flexibility for international students, providing ample breaks for travel or research commitments. Additionally, the calendar supports the institute’s focus on historical research by allowing extended periods for fieldwork or archival study during term breaks. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical UK university patterns, prospective students are encouraged to verify exact timelines through official University of London communications as they become available.