McGill Academic Calendar

McGill University, located in Montreal, Quebec, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, primarily consisting of two main terms: Fall and Winter, with an optional Summer term for additional coursework or research. The Fall semester typically begins in late August or early September and runs through December, culminating in final exams before the winter break. The Winter semester starts in early January and extends to late April or early May, also concluding with exams. McGill’s calendar includes designated reading weeks, notably in October and February, providing students with breaks to focus on independent study or rest. The Summer term, spanning May to August, offers condensed courses and is popular among students seeking to accelerate their studies or engage in internships.

• Fall Semester Start: September 2, 2025 (approximate, based on typical schedules). Classes begin for most programs, following orientation week.
• Thanksgiving Break: October 13, 2025. A statutory holiday in Canada, often part of a short break or reading week.
• Fall Final Exams: December 5–19, 2025 (estimated). Exam period before winter break.
• Winter Semester Start: January 6, 2026 (approximate). Classes resume after the holiday break.
• Winter Reading Week: February 23–27, 2026 (estimated). A mid-term break for students.
• Winter Final Exams: April 15–30, 2026 (approximate). End of the academic year for most programs.
• Convocation/Commencement: Late May to early June 2026 (estimated). Graduation ceremonies for completing students.

• Application Opens: October 1, 2024 (approximate). Start of undergraduate admissions for the 2025–2026 cycle (Class of 2030).
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 15, 2025 (estimated). Final date for most programs; international students are encouraged to apply earlier due to visa processing.
• Supporting Documents Deadline: March 15, 2025 (approximate). Submission of transcripts, test scores, and other materials.
• Decision Notifications: Late March to early May 2025 (estimated). Rolling admissions with notifications sent based on program and applicant pool.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2025 (approximate). Deadline to confirm acceptance and secure a spot.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: June 30, 2025 (estimated). Recommended date for submitting aid requests, especially for international students.

McGill University’s academic calendar aligns closely with other Canadian institutions, reflecting national holidays such as Thanksgiving and statutory breaks during the winter holiday season. Its semester structure and reading weeks offer flexibility for international students, accommodating travel and cultural adjustments. Additionally, the optional Summer term provides opportunities for accelerated learning or research, which is particularly beneficial for students in intensive programs or those balancing internships. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are not yet publicly confirmed, the estimates provided are based on historical patterns and typical scheduling norms for universities in Quebec. Students are advised to monitor official university communications for finalized dates and any unique scheduling considerations, such as adjustments for public health or regional events.