RU Academic Calendar

Richmond University - The American International University in London operates on a semester-based academic calendar, aligning with many American-style institutions while accommodating its unique position in the UK. The academic year typically consists of two main semesters—Fall and Spring—with an optional Summer term for additional coursework or internships. The Fall semester generally begins in late August or early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester runs from mid-January to late May. A notable feature of Richmond’s calendar is its integration of both UK and US holiday schedules, offering extended breaks during Christmas and Easter, alongside shorter mid-semester breaks to support student well-being and travel opportunities for its international student body.

• Fall Semester Start: Late August to early September 2025 (typically around August 25–September 1), marking the beginning of the academic year with orientation for new students.
• Mid-Semester Break (Fall): Mid-October 2025 (approximately October 13–17), providing a short pause for rest or travel.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 (approximately December 15–January 5), coinciding with Christmas and New Year holidays.
• Spring Semester Start: Mid-January 2026 (around January 12), following the winter break.
• Easter Break: Late March to early April 2026 (approximately March 30–April 10), aligning with UK public holidays.
• Final Exams (Spring): Mid to late May 2026 (typically May 10–20), concluding the academic year.
• Commencement Ceremony: Late May or early June 2026 (around May 25–June 1), celebrating graduating students.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2024, for Fall 2025 entry, offering an early decision option with notifications typically by mid-December 2024.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2025, for Fall 2025 entry, with decisions generally released by late March or early April 2025.
• Priority Financial Aid Deadline: February 15, 2025, recommended for students seeking scholarships or aid, especially international applicants.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2025, to secure a spot for the Fall 2025 semester, following acceptance notifications.
• Late Application Deadline: June 1, 2025 (if spaces remain), primarily for international or transfer students, though early application is encouraged.

The academic calendar at Richmond University reflects a blend of American and British educational traditions, with semester timings and breaks often aligning with UK public holidays like Easter and Christmas, while maintaining a structure familiar to US students. This hybrid approach offers flexibility for its diverse, international student population, allowing for travel or cultural immersion during extended breaks. Additionally, the university’s admissions cycle caters to global applicants by providing multiple deadlines and clear timelines for financial aid, ensuring accessibility for students from varied backgrounds. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, they are designed to accommodate both academic rigor and personal growth in a cross-cultural setting.