KAU Academic Calendar

The academic calendar at Kazakh American University (KAU), located in Kazakhstan, typically follows a semester-based system, aligning with many international universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: Fall and Spring, with a shorter Summer session for intensive courses or internships. The Fall semester generally begins in late August or early September and runs through mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in mid-January and concludes in late May or early June. A notable feature of KAU’s calendar is its inclusion of extended breaks during national holidays, such as Nauryz in March, reflecting cultural significance and providing students with opportunities to engage in local traditions.

• Fall Semester Start: September 1, 2025 (first day of classes for the academic year).
• Midterm Exams: Mid-October 2025 (specific dates to be confirmed by the university).
• Winter Break: December 15, 2025 – January 5, 2026 (includes Independence Day celebrations on December 16).
• Spring Semester Start: January 13, 2026 (classes resume after winter break).
• Nauryz Holiday Break: March 21–23, 2026 (observance of the traditional spring festival).
• Final Exams: Late May to early June 2026 (exact dates pending official release).
• Commencement Ceremony: Mid-June 2026 (celebration for graduating students).

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2025 (for early consideration; decisions typically notified by mid-December 2025).
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2026 (standard application deadline; decisions expected by late March 2026).
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 1, 2026 (submission for scholarships and grants; priority for international students).
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: May 1, 2026 (final date to accept admission offer and pay deposit).
• International Student Document Submission: April 1, 2026 (deadline for visa-related paperwork and transcripts).

The academic calendar at Kazakh American University aligns closely with regional norms in Central Asia, incorporating national holidays and cultural events into its scheduling. This structure offers flexibility for international students, with breaks that allow for travel or family visits. Additionally, the university’s admissions timeline mirrors global standards, providing ample time for application processing and visa arrangements. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical university patterns in the region, students are encouraged to check official university announcements for confirmed schedules and any unique considerations, such as adjustments for research periods or special programs.