LSE Academic Calendar

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), part of the University of London, operates on a unique academic calendar structured around three terms: Michaelmas Term (autumn), Lent Term (winter), and Summer Term (spring). This trimester system typically begins in late September or early October and concludes in June, with each term lasting approximately 11 weeks. A distinctive feature of LSE’s calendar is the inclusion of reading weeks midway through Michaelmas and Lent Terms, providing students with a break from lectures to focus on independent study and research. Additionally, there are extended breaks over the winter (December to January) and spring (March to April) periods, aligning with traditional holiday seasons.

• Michaelmas Term Start: Late September 2025 (typically around September 29) – Welcome Week and start of classes.
• Reading Week (Michaelmas): Early November 2025 (usually the first week) – No lectures, focus on self-study.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 13 to January 5) – Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Lent Term Start: Mid-January 2026 (around January 12) – Classes resume.
• Reading Week (Lent): Mid-February 2026 (typically the third week) – Break for independent work.
• Spring Break: Late March to mid-April 2026 (approximately March 27 to April 13) – Easter holiday period.
• Summer Term Start: Mid-April 2026 (around April 20) – Final term begins.
• Exam Period: May to early June 2026 – Main assessment period for most programs.

• UCAS Application Deadline: Late January 2025 (typically January 31) – Standard deadline for most undergraduate programs for entry in September 2025.
• Early Application Consideration: Mid-October 2024 (around October 15) – Recommended for competitive programs or international applicants needing visa processing time.
• Decision Notification: March to April 2025 – Most applicants receive offers or rejections during this period.
• Confirmation of Acceptance: Early May 2025 (typically May 1) – Deadline to accept offers for most programs.
• Financial Aid Application: Early June 2025 – Recommended deadline for scholarship or bursary applications, especially for international students.

LSE’s academic calendar aligns closely with other UK universities, following the traditional three-term structure common in the region, with breaks corresponding to national holidays like Christmas and Easter. This schedule offers some flexibility for international students, as the extended winter and spring breaks provide opportunities to travel or manage visa-related matters. However, the intensive nature of LSE’s terms, coupled with a strong emphasis on independent study during reading weeks, requires effective time management, particularly for students balancing coursework with research or internships. Specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on historical patterns, as official calendars may not yet be published.