NU Academic Calendar

Northwestern University, located in Evanston, Illinois, operates on a quarter system, which divides the academic year into four distinct terms: Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer. Unlike the more common semester system, the quarter system allows for a more intensive and focused curriculum, with each term typically lasting about 10 weeks. The academic year generally begins in late September for the Fall Quarter and concludes in early June with the Spring Quarter, followed by an optional Summer Quarter for additional coursework or research. Northwestern’s calendar includes standard breaks such as a winter recess in December and a spring break in March, aligning with many other U.S. institutions while offering flexibility for accelerated learning through its unique structure.

• Fall Quarter Start: September 23, 2025 (classes begin after a brief orientation period for new students).
• Thanksgiving Break: November 27–30, 2025 (a short break aligning with the national holiday).
• Winter Break: December 13, 2025–January 4, 2026 (extended break following final exams).
• Winter Quarter Start: January 5, 2026 (classes resume after the holiday period).
• Spring Break: March 21–29, 2026 (a one-week break midway through the Spring Quarter).
• Spring Quarter End: June 5, 2026 (final exams typically conclude by this date).
• Commencement: Mid-June 2026 (exact date to be confirmed, celebrating graduating students).

• Early Decision I Deadline: November 1, 2025 (binding decision with notification by mid-December 2025).
• Early Decision II Deadline: January 1, 2026 (binding decision with notification by mid-February 2026).
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 1, 2026 (non-binding, with decisions released by late March 2026).
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: February 1, 2026 (recommended for priority consideration alongside admissions applications).
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026 (for admitted students to confirm their place in the Class of 2030).

Northwestern’s quarter system aligns with many regional and national academic norms in the U.S., particularly in terms of holiday breaks like Thanksgiving and winter recess, ensuring compatibility with family schedules and public holidays. However, the shorter, more intensive quarters may require adjustment for international students accustomed to semester-based systems, though the university offers robust support through orientation and advising. Additionally, the optional Summer Quarter provides unique flexibility for students to pursue internships, research, or accelerated coursework, distinguishing Northwestern’s calendar from institutions with more rigid annual structures. Specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on historical patterns and typical university timelines, as exact details may not yet be publicly available.