SIFC Academic Calendar

The Saskatchewan Indian Federated College, now known as First Nations University of Canada, follows a semester-based academic calendar typical of many Canadian universities. The academic year is generally divided into two main semesters: Fall (September to December) and Winter (January to April), with an optional Spring/Summer session (May to August) for intensive courses or catch-up credits. The calendar often includes breaks aligned with national holidays, such as Thanksgiving in October and a winter holiday in December. Unique to the institution is its emphasis on integrating Indigenous cultural events and teachings into the academic schedule, which may influence certain dates or activities throughout the year.

• Fall Semester Start: September 3, 2025 (first week of September, typically after Labour Day).
• Thanksgiving Break: October 13, 2025 (aligned with the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday).
• Midterm Exams (Fall): Mid-October 2025 (specific dates vary by program).
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (extended holiday period).
• Winter Semester Start: January 6, 2026 (first full week of January).
• Final Exams (Winter): Mid-to-late April 2026 (typically a two-week period).
• Commencement Ceremony: Early June 2026 (specific date to be confirmed, often includes cultural celebrations).

• Early Application Deadline: December 1, 2024 (for priority consideration, notifications by late February 2025).
• Regular Decision Deadline: March 1, 2025 (standard deadline for Fall 2025 entry, decisions by May 2025).
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: April 15, 2025 (recommended to align with admission decisions).
• International Student Deadline: February 1, 2025 (earlier deadline to accommodate visa processing).
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: June 1, 2025 (deposit required to secure a spot for Fall 2025).

The academic calendar at First Nations University of Canada aligns closely with other universities in Saskatchewan and across Canada, particularly in its adherence to a semester system and recognition of national holidays like Thanksgiving and Remembrance Day. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, with ample breaks to accommodate travel or cultural observances. The university’s focus on Indigenous perspectives may result in unique scheduling considerations, such as events or ceremonies that enrich the academic experience. International students benefit from clear admissions timelines, though they are encouraged to apply early to navigate visa requirements. Note that specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical Canadian university schedules, as exact details may not yet be publicly available.