MacEwan Academic Calendar

MacEwan University, located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is common among Canadian universities. The academic year typically consists of two main semesters—Fall and Winter—with an optional Spring/Summer term for additional coursework or intensive programs. The Fall semester generally begins in early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Winter semester runs from early January to late April. The Spring/Summer term often spans May to August, offering condensed courses. Unique to MacEwan, the university emphasizes flexible scheduling with various session lengths during the Spring/Summer term, catering to students seeking accelerated learning or balancing work and study.

• Fall Semester Start: September 2, 2025 (first week of September), marking the beginning of the academic year after Labour Day.
• Thanksgiving Break: October 13, 2025, aligning with the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday, typically a one-day closure.
• Fall Semester Exams: December 8–18, 2025 (mid-December), concluding the semester with final assessments.
• Winter Semester Start: January 5, 2026 (first week of January), following the winter holiday break.
• Reading Week: February 16–20, 2026 (mid-February), a break for students to recharge or catch up on studies.
• Winter Semester Exams: April 13–23, 2026 (mid to late April), ending the main academic year.
• Commencement Ceremony: Early June 2026 (exact date TBD), celebrating graduating students.

• Application Opening Date: October 1, 2024 (early October), when applications for the 2025–2026 cycle typically become available.
• Early Admission Deadline: February 1, 2025, for priority consideration in competitive programs; decisions often released by March.
• Regular Admission Deadline: June 30, 2025, for most undergraduate programs; later deadlines may apply for specific faculties.
• International Student Deadline: May 1, 2025, to allow time for visa processing and additional documentation.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 31, 2025, for scholarships and bursaries; early submission is encouraged.

The academic calendar at MacEwan University aligns closely with other post-secondary institutions in Alberta and across Canada, particularly with breaks like Reading Week and holidays such as Thanksgiving and Remembrance Day. This structure offers predictability for students planning their studies or part-time work. For international students, the early application deadlines and extended processing times reflect a commitment to accommodating diverse needs, while the optional Spring/Summer term provides flexibility for those aiming to fast-track their education. Overall, MacEwan’s scheduling balances academic rigor with accessibility, ensuring students can navigate their academic journey effectively.