The University of Central Arkansas (UCA), located in Conway, Arkansas, 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. UCA’s calendar features standard breaks such as Thanksgiving in late November, a winter break from mid-December to mid-January, and a spring break in mid-March. This setup aligns with many public universities in the region, providing students with a predictable rhythm for academic planning and personal commitments.
The academic calendar at UCA aligns closely with regional and national norms for public universities in the United States, particularly in the South, with semesters mirroring typical K-12 holiday schedules like Thanksgiving and spring break. This structure offers flexibility for international students, as the extended winter break allows time for travel or visa-related needs. Additionally, UCA’s summer sessions provide opportunities for accelerated learning or catching up on credits, which can be beneficial for both domestic and international students. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are not yet publicly available, the estimated timelines reflect standard practices and should be verified closer to the academic year for accuracy.
