NCI Academic Calendar

The National College of Ireland (NCI), located in Dublin, Ireland, follows a structured academic calendar typically divided into two main semesters for most undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The academic year generally begins in early September and concludes in late May or early June, aligning with many European universities. The semesters are often broken into teaching periods, assessment weeks, and breaks, with a notable winter holiday in December and a shorter spring break around Easter. NCI’s calendar may also include intensive modules or short courses for certain programs, offering flexibility for part-time and professional learners, which is a distinctive feature of the institution’s scheduling.

• Autumn Semester Start: Early September 2025 (typically around September 8–10) – Orientation and first day of classes for new and returning students.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 20–January 5) – Campus closure for Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Spring Semester Start: Mid-January 2026 (around January 12) – Classes resume after winter break.
• Easter Break: Late March to early April 2026 (approximately March 28–April 5) – A short break aligned with Easter holidays.
• Final Exams: Late April to mid-May 2026 – End-of-year assessments for most programs.
• Commencement: Late May or early June 2026 – Graduation ceremonies for completing students.

• Early Application Deadline: Late November 2024 (around November 30) – For early consideration, with decisions typically notified by late January 2025.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2025 – Primary deadline for most undergraduate programs via the CAO (Central Applications Office) system, used in Ireland.
• International Student Deadline: May 1, 2025 – Recommended for non-EU applicants to allow time for visa processing.
• Financial Aid Application: March 31, 2025 – Deadline for submitting scholarship or grant applications, with notifications by late spring.
• Enrollment Confirmation: July–August 2025 – Final acceptance and fee payment deadlines after CAO offers are released.

NCI’s academic calendar aligns closely with Ireland’s national education norms, particularly in its use of the CAO system for undergraduate admissions and semester structure mirroring other Irish institutions. The scheduling accommodates key public holidays like Christmas and Easter, ensuring minimal disruption for students. For international students, NCI provides clear deadlines and support for visa processes, though applicants are encouraged to apply early due to potential delays. The calendar’s design also reflects NCI’s focus on accessibility, with flexible options for part-time study and short breaks that cater to both local and global learners. Note that specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, as official calendars may not yet be published.