Loughborough University, located in Leicestershire, UK, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is typical for many British universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: the Autumn Semester, generally running from late September to mid-December, and the Spring Semester, spanning from late January to early June. A shorter summer period is often used for resits, research, or internships. This structure includes designated breaks for Christmas and Easter, aligning with national holidays, and allows for focused teaching and assessment periods. Loughborough is known for its emphasis on practical learning and placements, which may influence scheduling for certain programs with integrated work experience.
- Autumn Semester Start: Late September 2025 (typically around September 29) – Welcome Week and induction activities for new students.
- Christmas Break: Mid-December 2025 to mid-January 2026 (approximately December 15 to January 12) – University closure for holiday period.
- Spring Semester Start: Late January 2026 (around January 19) – Teaching resumes with assessments often scheduled toward the end of this semester.
- Easter Break: Mid-March to early April 2026 (approximately March 30 to April 13) – Break aligning with national Easter holidays.
- End of Academic Year/Exams: Late May to early June 2026 (typically May 25 to June 10) – Main examination period for most programs.
- Graduation Ceremonies: Mid-July 2026 (exact dates to be confirmed) – Celebratory events for graduating students.
- UCAS Application Opening: Early September 2025 (typically September 3) – Start of applications for undergraduate programs via UCAS.
- Early Deadline for Competitive Courses: Mid-October 2025 (around October 15) – Deadline for programs like Medicine or Dentistry, if applicable.
- Main UCAS Deadline: Late January 2026 (typically January 31) – Final date for most undergraduate applications to ensure equal consideration.
- Decision Notification: March to April 2026 – Applicants usually receive offers or rejections during this period.
- Confirmation of Places: Mid-August 2026 (post A-Level results, around August 13) – Deadline to confirm acceptance after receiving exam results.
- International Student Deadline: Late June 2026 (typically June 30) – Earlier application recommended for visa processing and accommodation arrangements.
The academic calendar at Loughborough University aligns closely with the standard UK higher education framework, featuring semester breaks that coincide with major national holidays like Christmas and Easter. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating travel and family commitments. The university’s focus on placements and practical experience may result in tailored schedules for certain courses, providing flexibility but requiring early planning. International students benefit from clear application timelines through UCAS, though they are encouraged to apply early to account for visa processing. Overall, Loughborough’s calendar balances academic rigor with structured breaks, reflecting its commitment to student well-being and professional development.
