LU Academic Calendar

Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar, dividing the year into three main terms: Fall, Winter, and Spring/Summer. The Fall semester typically begins in early September and concludes in December, while the Winter semester runs from January to April. The Spring/Summer term, often optional for many programs, spans May to August and may include shorter, intensive courses. This structure aligns with most Canadian universities, offering students predictable scheduling and extended breaks, particularly over the winter holidays in December and a lighter academic load during the summer months. Laurentian also provides flexibility through online and hybrid course options, catering to diverse student needs.

• Fall Semester Start: September 3, 2025 (first week of September), marking the beginning of the academic year with orientation activities for new students.
• Thanksgiving Break: October 13, 2025, coinciding with the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday, often a long weekend for students.
• Fall Reading Week: Mid-October 2025 (exact dates TBD), a short break for students to catch up on studies.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025, to January 4, 2026, an extended holiday period following fall exams.
• Winter Semester Start: January 6, 2026, resuming classes after the holiday break.
• Winter Reading Week: Mid-February 2026 (often around Family Day), providing a mid-term break.
• Commencement: Early June 2026, celebrating graduates with ceremonies typically held on campus.

• Early Application Deadline: November 1, 2024, for early consideration, with notifications often sent by late December 2024.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 15, 2025, the standard deadline for most undergraduate programs, with decisions typically released by March or April 2025.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: February 15, 2025, for scholarships and bursaries, encouraging early submission for priority consideration.
• International Student Deadline: April 1, 2025, to allow time for visa processing and additional documentation.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: June 1, 2025, requiring accepted students to confirm their spot and submit deposits.

The academic calendar at Laurentian University mirrors the broader Canadian post-secondary framework, with semesters aligned to national holidays like Thanksgiving and Family Day, ensuring cultural relevance. Its extended winter break offers respite during Ontario’s harsh winters, while the optional summer term provides flexibility for students aiming to accelerate their studies or balance work commitments. For international students, the clear delineation of terms and early admissions deadlines facilitate planning around visa timelines and travel. Additionally, Laurentian’s bilingual offerings in English and French may influence scheduling for specific programs, adding a unique layer to its academic structure compared to other regional institutions.