Portland Community College (PCC), located in Portland, Oregon, operates on a quarter-based academic calendar, which divides the year into four distinct terms: Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer. This system allows for flexibility in course scheduling and accelerated learning opportunities. Typically, the Fall quarter begins in late September, Winter in early January, Spring in late March or early April, and Summer in mid-June. Each quarter lasts approximately 11 weeks, including final exams, with short breaks between terms and a longer summer break. PCC’s calendar also features unique elements such as variable-length summer sessions and non-credit community education courses running concurrently with academic terms.
PCC’s quarter system aligns with many community colleges in the Pacific Northwest, offering more frequent entry points compared to traditional semester-based universities. This structure is particularly beneficial for international students and working adults, as it provides multiple opportunities to enroll throughout the year. Additionally, the calendar accommodates regional holidays like Thanksgiving and aligns breaks with public school schedules, facilitating family planning. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on historical patterns, students are encouraged to check PCC’s official announcements for finalized schedules, as dates may shift slightly due to unforeseen circumstances or policy updates.
