UTD Academic Calendar

The University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas), located in Richardson, Texas, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is common among many U.S. universities. The academic year is divided into three main terms: fall, spring, and summer. The fall semester typically begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the spring semester runs from mid-January to early May. The summer term offers multiple sessions, often starting in late May or early June and extending through August, providing flexibility for students to accelerate their studies or catch up on coursework. UT Dallas also incorporates short breaks, such as Thanksgiving in the fall and spring break in March, aligning with traditional academic schedules while accommodating a diverse student body with varying needs.

• Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated) - Classes begin for the fall term.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 27–28, 2025 - Campus closure for the holiday.
• Fall Final Exams: December 8–12, 2025 (estimated) - End-of-semester assessments.
• Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (estimated) - Classes resume after winter break.
• Spring Break: March 16–20, 2026 (estimated) - Mid-semester break for students.
• Spring Final Exams: May 4–8, 2026 (estimated) - Conclusion of spring term.
• Commencement: Mid-May 2026 (exact date TBD) - Graduation ceremonies for eligible students.
• Summer Sessions Start: Late May to Early June 2026 (estimated) - Multiple session options available.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2025 (estimated) - Priority application for early consideration; notifications typically by late December.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 15, 2026 (estimated) - Standard application deadline for fall 2026 admission; decisions often released by March or April.
• Priority Financial Aid Deadline: February 1, 2026 (estimated) - Recommended date to submit FAFSA for maximum aid consideration.
• International Student Deadline: April 1, 2026 (estimated) - Earlier cutoff to allow for visa processing and documentation.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026 (estimated) - Deadline to confirm intent to enroll for admitted students.

The academic calendar at UT Dallas aligns closely with regional and national norms for public universities in Texas, featuring standard semester lengths and breaks that coincide with major holidays like Thanksgiving and spring break. This structure offers predictability for students planning their schedules. Additionally, the university’s summer sessions provide flexibility, particularly for international students or those balancing work and study. The admissions timeline also reflects common practices, with early action and regular decision deadlines designed to accommodate a wide range of applicants. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on historical patterns, students are encouraged to check official university resources for the most current information as it becomes available.