UChicago Academic Calendar

The University of Chicago, located in Chicago, Illinois, operates on a unique quarter system, dividing the academic year into four terms: Autumn, Winter, Spring, and Summer. This structure allows for intensive, focused study periods, with each quarter typically lasting about 10 weeks. The academic year generally begins in late September with the Autumn Quarter and concludes in early June with the Spring Quarter, followed by an optional Summer Quarter for additional coursework or research. A distinctive feature of UChicago’s calendar is its emphasis on rigorous academics, with shorter breaks between quarters compared to traditional semester systems, including a brief winter break and a longer summer hiatus for students not enrolled in summer sessions.

• Autumn Quarter Start: Late September 2025 (typically around September 29) - Marks the beginning of the academic year with orientation for new students.
• Winter Quarter Start: Early January 2026 (around January 5) - Follows a short winter break over the holidays.
• Spring Quarter Start: Late March 2026 (approximately March 30) - Includes spring break in mid-March before the quarter begins.
• Commencement: Early June 2026 (typically first or second weekend) - Celebrates graduation for completing students.
• Summer Quarter: Mid-June to Late August 2026 (optional) - Offers additional courses and research opportunities.

• Early Decision I Deadline: Early November 2025 (typically November 1) - Binding option with notification by mid-December 2025.
• Early Decision II Deadline: Early January 2026 (around January 2) - Another binding option with notification by mid-February 2026.
• Regular Decision Deadline: Early January 2026 (typically January 2) - Non-binding, with decisions released by late March 2026.
• Financial Aid Deadline: Mid-February 2026 (often February 15) - Priority deadline for submitting FAFSA and CSS Profile for need-based aid.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: Early May 2026 (typically May 1) - Deadline for admitted students to confirm enrollment.

The University of Chicago’s quarter system deviates from the more common semester structure seen in many U.S. institutions, offering a faster-paced academic rhythm that can be advantageous for students seeking to explore diverse subjects or accelerate their studies. Its calendar aligns with national holidays like Thanksgiving and Independence Day, ensuring breaks for students and faculty. For international students, the intensive quarters may require adjustment, but the university provides robust support during orientation in the Autumn Quarter. Additionally, the optional Summer Quarter offers flexibility for those pursuing internships, research, or additional credits, making UChicago’s schedule uniquely adaptable to varied academic and professional goals.