Old Dominion University (ODU), located in Norfolk, Virginia, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar. The university typically divides its academic year into three main terms: Fall, Spring, and Summer. The Fall semester generally begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester runs from mid-January to early May. Summer sessions are offered in multiple shorter terms, often spanning May through August, providing flexibility for students to accelerate their studies or catch up on coursework. ODU’s calendar includes standard breaks such as a winter recess between semesters and a spring break in March, aligning with many other institutions in the region.
The academic calendar at Old Dominion University aligns closely with national norms for semester-based systems, particularly those in the Mid-Atlantic region, with breaks corresponding to major holidays like Thanksgiving and Labor Day. This structure offers predictability for students planning their schedules. For international students, ODU’s extended summer sessions and clear admissions timelines provide flexibility to adjust to academic and visa requirements. Additionally, the university’s scheduling considers the needs of its diverse student body, including military-affiliated students, with options for accelerated or online coursework during shorter terms. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, students are encouraged to verify exact deadlines as they become available.
