SCU Academic Calendar

Southern Cross University, located in Australia, operates on a trimester-based academic calendar, which divides the year into three main teaching periods. This structure allows for greater flexibility in course scheduling and accelerated degree completion for students. Typically, the academic year begins with Trimester 1 in late February or early March, followed by Trimester 2 starting in late June or early July, and Trimester 3 commencing in late October or early November. Each trimester lasts approximately 10-12 weeks, including teaching and examination periods. The university also incorporates breaks between trimesters, with a longer summer break from mid-December to late February, aligning with the Australian summer season. This system supports both domestic and international students by offering multiple entry points throughout the year.

• Trimester 1 Start: March 3, 2025 (first day of classes for the academic year).
• Trimester 1 Exams: May 19–30, 2025 (final assessments for the term).
• Trimester 2 Start: July 7, 2025 (classes resume after a short break).
• Trimester 2 Exams: September 15–26, 2025 (end-of-term assessments).
• Trimester 3 Start: November 3, 2025 (final teaching period of the year).
• Trimester 3 Exams: January 12–23, 2026 (exams before the summer break).
• Summer Break: December 15, 2025–February 28, 2026 (extended holiday period).
• Early Application Deadline: September 30, 2024 (for Trimester 1, 2025; recommended for international students to allow visa processing time).
• Regular Application Deadline: December 15, 2024 (for Trimester 1, 2025; final date for most domestic applicants).
• Trimester 2 Application Deadline: May 15, 2025 (for mid-year entry; open to all students).
• Trimester 3 Application Deadline: September 15, 2025 (for late-year entry; limited course availability).
• Scholarship Application Deadline: November 30, 2024 (for financial aid consideration for 2025; dates may vary by program).
• Decision Notification: Rolling basis, typically 4-6 weeks after application submission (applicants advised to apply early for faster processing).

The trimester system at Southern Cross University aligns with many Australian institutions, offering multiple intake periods that cater to diverse student needs, particularly for international students who may require flexible start dates due to visa or travel constraints. The calendar also incorporates breaks that coincide with national holidays, such as the summer break over Christmas and New Year, ensuring cultural and regional relevance. Additionally, the university’s scheduling provides opportunities for students to balance academic commitments with personal or professional responsibilities, making it an adaptable choice for a global student body. Note that the above dates are estimates based on typical Australian university calendars, as specific 2025–2026 dates may not yet be publicly available.