LSE Academic Calendar

The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), located in London, United Kingdom, operates on a unique academic calendar structured around three terms: Michaelmas Term (autumn), Lent Term (winter), and Summer Term (spring). Unlike traditional semester systems, LSE’s terms are shorter and more intensive, typically spanning from late September to mid-June, with significant breaks between terms. Michaelmas Term generally begins in late September or early October and ends in mid-December, followed by a winter break. Lent Term runs from mid-January to late March, and Summer Term extends from late April to mid-June, often culminating in examinations. This structure allows for focused study periods and aligns with the university’s emphasis on rigorous academic engagement.

• Michaelmas Term Start: Late September 2025 (typically around September 29) – Welcome Week and start of classes.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 13 to January 5) – Includes Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Lent Term Start: Mid-January 2026 (around January 12) – Classes resume after the winter break.
• Easter Break: Late March to mid-April 2026 (approximately March 27 to April 13) – Coincides with Easter holidays.
• Summer Term Start: Late April 2026 (around April 20) – Final term with focus on revision and exams.
• Examination Period: May to mid-June 2026 – Main assessment period for most programs.

• UCAS Application Deadline: Late January 2025 (typically January 31) – Primary deadline for undergraduate applications for 2025 entry via UCAS, applicable to the Class of 2030.
• Decision Notification: March to May 2025 – Applicants are usually notified of admission decisions within this period.
• Confirmation of Acceptance: Early August 2025 (post A-Level results, around August 15) – Deadline to confirm offers after receiving exam results.
• International Student Deadline: Late June 2025 (approximately June 30) – Recommended earlier application or document submission for visa processing.

LSE’s academic calendar aligns closely with other UK universities, adhering to national norms such as extended breaks during Christmas and Easter, which often coincide with public holidays. The term-based system offers less flexibility compared to semester systems but provides intensive learning periods that suit LSE’s research-driven and specialized programs. For international students, the calendar accommodates early application deadlines and visa processing timelines, though careful planning is required due to the fast-paced terms. Unique scheduling considerations include the university’s focus on independent study during breaks, which may differ from more structured academic calendars in other regions.