JCU Academic Calendar

John Cabot University (JCU), located in Rome, Italy, operates on a semester-based academic calendar typical of many American-style universities abroad. The academic year is divided into two main semesters—Fall and Spring—with optional Summer sessions. The Fall semester generally begins in late August or early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester typically starts in mid-January and ends in early May. Summer sessions, often split into two shorter terms, run from late May through July. This structure allows for extended breaks, including a notable winter break aligning with major holidays, and provides flexibility for students participating in study abroad or internship opportunities in Europe.

• Fall Semester Start: Late August to early September 2025 (exact date to be confirmed), marking the beginning of the academic year with orientation for new students.
• Midterm Exams (Fall): Mid-October 2025, a key period for academic assessments.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026, coinciding with Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Spring Semester Start: Mid-January 2026, following the winter break.
• Spring Break: Late March to early April 2026, often aligning with Easter holidays.
• Final Exams (Spring): Late April to early May 2026, concluding the academic year.
• Commencement: Mid-May 2026, celebrating graduating students with a formal ceremony.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2024, for Fall 2025 entry; non-binding with notification by mid-December 2024.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2025, for Fall 2025 entry; decisions typically released by late March 2025.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 1, 2025, for priority consideration alongside admissions applications.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2025, to secure a spot for the incoming Class of 2030.
• International Student Application Note: International applicants are encouraged to apply by the Early Action deadline to allow time for visa processing.

The academic calendar at John Cabot University aligns closely with both American and European university norms, balancing a U.S.-style semester system with breaks that often correspond to Italian public holidays such as Easter and Christmas. This hybrid approach offers significant flexibility for international students, who form a large part of JCU’s diverse student body, allowing them to travel or engage in cultural immersion during extended breaks. Additionally, the optional Summer sessions cater to students seeking accelerated coursework or unique study opportunities in Rome. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, prospective students are advised to check the university’s official announcements for confirmed schedules.