SMA Academic Calendar

Welcome to the academic calendar and undergraduate admissions overview for State Maritime Academy, located in an undefined region. The academy operates on a traditional semester system, with two primary terms: Fall and Spring, alongside a shorter Summer session for intensive courses or internships. The Fall semester typically begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester runs from mid-January to early May. A notable feature of the academy’s calendar is its emphasis on extended breaks, particularly around major holidays, to accommodate students balancing rigorous maritime training with personal commitments.

• Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (orientation for new students begins a week prior).
• Labor Day Holiday: September 1, 2025 (campus closed, no classes).
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–30, 2025 (extended break for travel and family time).
• Final Exams (Fall): December 8–12, 2025 (specific schedules vary by department).
• Winter Break: December 13, 2025–January 11, 2026 (campus largely closed).
• Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (classes resume).
• Spring Break: March 16–22, 2026 (mid-semester recess).
• Final Exams (Spring): May 4–8, 2026 (end of academic year).
• Commencement: May 9, 2026 (graduation ceremony for all eligible students).

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2025 (non-binding; decisions notified by mid-December 2025).
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 15, 2026 (final deadline for Fall 2026 admission; decisions by late March 2026).
• Priority Financial Aid Deadline: February 1, 2026 (submit FAFSA or equivalent for maximum aid consideration).
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026 (confirm intent to enroll for admitted students).
• International Student Application Deadline: December 1, 2025 (earlier deadline to accommodate visa processing).

The academic calendar at State Maritime Academy generally aligns with national norms for semester-based institutions in the United States, with key holidays like Thanksgiving and Labor Day integrated into the schedule. The extended Winter Break offers flexibility for international students and those participating in maritime training programs, allowing time for travel or professional development. Additionally, the academy’s Summer session provides unique opportunities for accelerated learning or field experience, setting it apart from more traditional academic schedules. Note that the dates provided are estimates based on typical university calendars, as specific details for 2025–2026 are not yet publicly available.