ISU Academic Calendar

Iowa State University, located in Ames, Iowa, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar, which is common among many U.S. institutions. The academic year is divided into two main semesters—Fall and Spring—with a shorter Summer session for additional coursework or intensive programs. Typically, the Fall semester begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in mid-January and ends in early May. The university also incorporates standard breaks, including a winter break between semesters and a spring break in March, aligning with national holiday schedules and providing students with opportunities for rest or research.

• Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated based on typical schedules). Classes begin for all students.
• Labor Day Holiday: September 1, 2025. University offices closed; no classes held.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–30, 2025 (estimated). Extended break for students and faculty.
• Fall Semester End/Finals: December 15–19, 2025 (estimated). Final exams period.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025–January 11, 2026 (estimated). Campus largely closed.
• Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (estimated). Classes resume after winter break.
• Spring Break: March 16–20, 2026 (estimated). Mid-semester break for students.
• Spring Semester End/Finals: May 4–8, 2026 (estimated). Final exams and commencement ceremonies.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2024 (estimated for Class of 2030). Non-binding option with earlier notification, typically by mid-December.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2025 (estimated). Standard application deadline with notifications by late March or early April.
• Priority Financial Aid Deadline: March 1, 2025 (estimated). Recommended for maximum aid consideration.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: May 1, 2025 (estimated). Deadline to accept admission offer and submit deposit.
• International Student Deadline: February 1, 2025 (estimated). Earlier processing for visa documentation; additional requirements may apply.

The academic calendar at Iowa State University aligns closely with regional and national norms for U.S. higher education, particularly in the Midwest, where semesters are structured around major holidays like Thanksgiving and spring breaks coincide with typical K-12 schedules. This alignment offers predictability for students and families. Additionally, the university provides some flexibility for international students through extended application processing times and summer session options, though exact dates may vary. Students are encouraged to plan around these estimated dates while noting that specific calendars for 2025–2026 are subject to final confirmation by the university.