UCD Academic Calendar

University College Dublin (UCD), located in Dublin, Ireland, operates on a trimester system for its academic calendar, which is distinct from the semester structure common in many other countries. The academic year typically runs from early September to late May, divided into three terms: Autumn (September to December), Spring (January to April), and Summer (May to June, primarily for exams or research). This structure allows for intensive study periods and aligns with the Irish and European academic frameworks. A notable feature of UCD’s calendar is its emphasis on modular learning, where students engage in focused coursework within each trimester, often culminating in assessment periods at the end of each term. Extended breaks, particularly over the winter holidays, provide opportunities for rest and independent study.

• Autumn Trimester Start: September 8, 2025 (first day of lectures for most programs).
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 4, 2026 (includes Christmas and New Year holidays).
• Spring Trimester Start: January 12, 2026 (lectures resume).
• Easter Break: April 3 – April 10, 2026 (aligned with national Easter holidays).
• Summer Trimester/Exams: May 4 – May 29, 2026 (focus on final assessments and research projects).
• Commencement Ceremonies: Early June 2026 (specific dates vary by school).

• CAO Application Opening: November 1, 2024 (Central Applications Office opens for undergraduate applications).
• Early Application Deadline: January 20, 2025 (for restricted programs or early consideration).
• Regular Application Deadline: February 1, 2025 (standard deadline for most programs via CAO).
• Late Application Deadline: May 1, 2025 (late applications accepted with restrictions).
• Offer Notification: Mid-August 2025 (first round of offers released post-Leaving Certificate results).
• International Student Deadline: July 1, 2025 (recommended for non-EU applicants to allow visa processing time).

The academic calendar at University College Dublin aligns closely with Ireland’s national education system, particularly in its integration of public holidays like Easter and Christmas into break periods. This structure offers predictability for both domestic and international students, facilitating travel and family commitments. For international students, the trimester system provides flexibility to adapt to Ireland’s academic pace, with ample breaks for cultural immersion or additional study. Additionally, UCD’s scheduling considers research-intensive periods, especially in the summer trimester, catering to students in science and humanities programs who may engage in fieldwork or dissertation work. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on historical patterns, they reflect typical timelines for Irish universities.