Queens Academic Calendar

Queen's University, located in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, operates on a semester-based academic calendar typical of many Canadian institutions. The academic year is divided into two main semesters: Fall (September to December) and Winter (January to April), with an optional Summer term (May to August) for additional coursework or intensive programs. The Fall semester generally begins in early September, aligning with Labour Day, while the Winter semester starts in early January after a holiday break. A notable feature of Queen's calendar is its structured reading week in both Fall and Winter terms, providing students with a mid-semester break to recharge or catch up on studies.

• Fall Semester Start: September 2, 2025 (first week of September, typically after Labour Day).
• Fall Reading Week: October 13–17, 2025 (mid-October break, often aligned with Thanksgiving).
• Fall Semester End/Exams: December 5–19, 2025 (exams typically span two weeks before the holiday break).
• Winter Semester Start: January 5, 2026 (first full week of January).
• Winter Reading Week: February 16–20, 2026 (mid-February break, often around Family Day in Ontario).
• Winter Semester End/Exams: April 6–24, 2026 (exams conclude by late April).
• Commencement: Mid-to-late June 2026 (specific dates vary by faculty).

• Early Application Deadline: December 1, 2024 (for select programs or early consideration; notifications by early spring).
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2025 (standard deadline for most undergraduate programs; decisions typically released by May).
• Supplemental Application Deadline: February 15, 2025 (for programs requiring additional materials like portfolios or essays).
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: March 1, 2025 (recommended for priority consideration of scholarships and bursaries).
• International Student Deadline: February 1, 2025 (same as regular decision, with additional time needed for visa processing).

The academic calendar at Queen's University aligns closely with other Canadian universities, particularly in Ontario, with semesters structured around national holidays like Thanksgiving and Family Day. This provides a predictable rhythm for students, including international ones, who benefit from extended breaks to travel or manage visa requirements. Additionally, the optional Summer term offers flexibility for those seeking to accelerate their studies or engage in research opportunities, reflecting Queen's commitment to accommodating diverse student needs. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on historical patterns, they are subject to confirmation by the university closer to the academic year.