Michigan State University Academic Calendar

Michigan State University (MSU), located in East Lansing, Michigan, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is common among many U.S. universities. The academic year is typically divided into three main terms: Fall Semester, Spring Semester, and Summer Session. The Fall Semester generally begins in late August or early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring Semester starts in early January and ends in early May. The Summer Session, often optional, runs from mid-May through mid-August and offers condensed courses. MSU’s calendar includes standard breaks such as Thanksgiving, winter holiday, and spring break, aligning with national holidays and providing students with predictable downtime for planning.

• Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated). Classes begin for the fall term, marking the start of the academic year.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–30, 2025 (estimated). A short break aligning with the national holiday, with no classes held.
• Fall Semester End/Finals: December 8–12, 2025 (estimated). Final exams conclude the semester.
• Winter Break: December 13, 2025–January 4, 2026 (estimated). Extended holiday break between semesters.
• Spring Semester Start: January 5, 2026 (estimated). Classes resume for the spring term.
• Spring Break: March 2–6, 2026 (estimated). A week-long break for students mid-semester.
• Spring Semester End/Finals: April 27–May 1, 2026 (estimated). Final exams and conclusion of the semester.
• Commencement: Early May 2026 (estimated). Graduation ceremonies for eligible students.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2024 (estimated for Class of 2030). Non-binding application option with decision notifications typically by mid-January 2025.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2025 (estimated). Final deadline for fall 2025 admission, with decisions generally released by late March or early April 2025.
• Financial Aid Priority Deadline: March 1, 2025 (estimated). Recommended date to submit FAFSA for maximum aid consideration.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2025 (estimated). Deadline to confirm enrollment for admitted students.
• International Student Application Deadline: February 1, 2025 (estimated). Same as regular decision, with additional time needed for visa processing.

The academic calendar at Michigan State University aligns closely with regional and national norms for U.S. higher education institutions, particularly those in the Midwest, with semesters structured around major holidays like Thanksgiving and winter break. This predictability benefits both domestic and international students, offering clear windows for travel or personal commitments. MSU’s summer session provides flexibility for students seeking to accelerate their studies or catch up on credits. Additionally, the admissions timeline accommodates a wide range of applicants, with early action and regular decision options ensuring accessibility. International students are encouraged to apply by the regular deadline to account for visa processing, reflecting MSU’s commitment to a diverse student body.