TCU Academic Calendar

Texas Christian University (TCU), located in Fort Worth, Texas, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar. The university typically divides its academic year into two main semesters—Fall and Spring—with an optional Summer session. The Fall semester generally begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in mid-January and ends in early May. Summer sessions vary in length, often spanning May through July, offering flexibility for students seeking accelerated coursework or additional credits. TCU’s calendar also includes designated breaks, such as a winter holiday period and a spring break, aligning with common academic traditions in the United States.

• Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated, based on typical schedules). Classes begin for undergraduate and graduate students.
• Labor Day Holiday: September 1, 2025. Campus is closed for the national holiday.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–30, 2025 (estimated). No classes, allowing time for family and travel.
• Fall Semester End/Final Exams: December 8–12, 2025 (estimated). Final assessments before winter break.
• Winter Break: December 13, 2025–January 11, 2026 (estimated). Extended holiday period for students and faculty.
• Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (estimated). Classes resume after winter break.
• Spring Break: March 9–13, 2026 (estimated). Mid-semester break for relaxation and travel.
• Spring Semester End/Final Exams: May 4–8, 2026 (estimated). Conclusion of academic year with commencement ceremonies shortly after.

• Early Decision I Deadline: November 1, 2024 (estimated for Class of 2030). Binding decision with notification by mid-December 2024.
• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2024 (estimated). Non-binding option with decisions released by late January 2025.
• Early Decision II Deadline: January 1, 2025 (estimated). Second binding option with notification by mid-February 2025.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2025 (estimated). Final application date with decisions by early April 2025.
• Financial Aid Priority Deadline: February 1, 2025 (estimated). Recommended for timely consideration of scholarships and aid.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2025 (estimated). Deadline to confirm enrollment for admitted students.

TCU’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for U.S. universities, particularly those in the South and Southwest, with semesters mirroring typical start and end dates. Breaks such as Thanksgiving and Spring Break coincide with federal holidays and regional school schedules, facilitating coordination for students and families. The university’s structure offers some flexibility for international students, with extended winter breaks allowing for travel and optional summer sessions providing opportunities to catch up or advance academically. However, prospective students should note that specific dates may vary slightly year to year, and adjustments could be made for unforeseen circumstances or university-specific events.