SCU Academic Calendar

Santa Clara University, located in Santa Clara, California, operates on a quarter system, which divides the academic year into three main terms: Fall, Winter, and Spring, with an optional Summer session. Typically, the Fall Quarter begins in late September and ends in mid-December, Winter Quarter runs from early January to mid-March, and Spring Quarter spans from late March to early June. This structure allows for intensive, focused study periods and provides students with flexibility for internships or research during the Summer term. The university also incorporates significant breaks, such as a winter holiday period, aligning with national holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, ensuring students have time for rest and family.

• Fall Quarter Start: September 22, 2025 (estimated based on typical schedules). Classes begin with orientation for new students.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 27–28, 2025. Campus is closed for the holiday.
• Fall Quarter End: December 12, 2025 (estimated). Includes final exams.
• Winter Quarter Start: January 5, 2026 (estimated). Classes resume after the holiday break.
• Winter Quarter End: March 13, 2026 (estimated). Includes final exams.
• Spring Quarter Start: March 30, 2026 (estimated). Follows a short spring break.
• Commencement: Early June 2026 (exact date TBD). Celebrates graduating students.

• Early Decision I Deadline: November 1, 2025 (estimated). Binding decision with notification by mid-December.
• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2025 (estimated). Non-binding option with notification by late December.
• Early Decision II Deadline: January 7, 2026 (estimated). Binding decision with notification by mid-February.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 7, 2026 (estimated). Notification by early April.
• Financial Aid Priority Deadline: February 1, 2026 (estimated). Recommended for timely aid consideration.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026 (estimated). Required to secure a spot for the Fall term.

The academic calendar at Santa Clara University aligns with many West Coast institutions using the quarter system, offering shorter, more intensive terms compared to semester-based schools. This structure provides flexibility for international students, who can utilize the Summer session for additional coursework or internships. Breaks are strategically placed around major U.S. holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, ensuring cultural alignment for domestic and international students alike. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on historical patterns, students are encouraged to check the university’s official announcements for confirmed schedules as they become available.