UA Academic Calendar

The University of Arizona, located in Tucson, Arizona, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar. This structure includes a Fall semester typically beginning in late August and concluding in mid-December, a Spring semester running from mid-January to early May, and optional Summer sessions spanning May through August. The university also incorporates significant breaks, such as a winter recess in December and January, and a spring break in March, aligning with many other institutions in the United States. This calendar supports a balance of academic rigor and personal downtime, with additional short sessions or intensive courses often available during intersessions for accelerated learning.

• Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated, based on historical patterns). Classes begin for all students.
• Labor Day Holiday: September 1, 2025. University closed for the federal holiday.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 27–30, 2025 (estimated). No classes; university offices may have limited hours.
• Fall Final Exams: December 15–19, 2025 (estimated). End of semester assessments.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025–January 11, 2026 (estimated). Campus largely closed for the holiday season.
• Spring Semester Start: January 13, 2026 (estimated). Classes resume after winter break.
• Spring Break: March 9–15, 2026 (estimated). Mid-semester break for students.
• Spring Final Exams: May 4–8, 2026 (estimated). Conclusion of spring semester.
• Commencement: May 15, 2026 (estimated). Graduation ceremonies for eligible students.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2024 (estimated for Class of 2030). Non-binding application option with earlier notification, typically by mid-December.
• Regular Decision Deadline: May 1, 2025 (estimated). Final deadline for fall 2025 enrollment; decisions often released by late March or early April.
• Priority Financial Aid Deadline: March 1, 2025 (estimated). Recommended date to submit FAFSA for maximum aid consideration.
• Enrollment Confirmation Deadline: June 1, 2025 (estimated). Deadline to secure a spot for the fall semester with deposit.
• International Student Application Deadline: March 15, 2025 (estimated). Earlier cutoff to accommodate visa processing and other requirements.

The University of Arizona’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for semester-based systems, particularly in the timing of major holidays like Thanksgiving and spring break, which often correspond with regional school schedules in the Southwest. This structure offers predictability for students and families while providing flexibility through optional summer and intersession courses. For international students, the extended winter break allows ample time for travel or visa-related arrangements, though early admissions deadlines ensure timely processing. Unique to the university is its emphasis on accommodating diverse student needs through varied session lengths, reflecting its commitment to accessibility and academic innovation in a research-intensive environment.