UM Academic Calendar

The University of Michigan, located in Ann Arbor, operates on a trimester-based academic calendar with three primary terms: Fall, Winter, and Spring/Summer. The Fall term typically begins in late August or early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Winter term runs from early January to late April or early May. The Spring/Summer term, which is optional for many students, spans May through August and is often used for internships, research, or accelerated coursework. This structure allows for a traditional academic year with extended breaks in December and over the summer, aligning with many other major universities in the United States. Unique to Michigan is the flexibility within the Spring/Summer term, which is split into shorter sessions for intensive study options.

• Fall Term Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated) - Classes begin for most programs, following a brief orientation period for new students.
• Labor Day Holiday: September 1, 2025 - University closed for the national holiday.
• Fall Break: October 13-14, 2025 (estimated) - A short mid-semester break for students.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26-30, 2025 (estimated) - Extended break for the holiday.
• Fall Term End/Exams: December 15-19, 2025 (estimated) - Final exams and end of term.
• Winter Term Start: January 7, 2026 (estimated) - Classes resume after winter break.
• Winter Break: December 20, 2025 - January 6, 2026 (estimated) - Extended holiday break.
• Commencement: May 2-3, 2026 (estimated) - Graduation ceremonies for Winter term completers.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2025 (estimated) - For prospective undergraduates seeking priority consideration; notifications typically released by late December.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2026 (estimated) - Final deadline for most applicants; decisions generally announced by early April.
• Financial Aid Priority Deadline: March 31, 2026 (estimated) - Recommended date for submitting FAFSA and other aid applications for maximum consideration.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026 (estimated) - Deadline for admitted students to confirm enrollment for the Fall 2026 term.
• International Student Application Deadline: February 1, 2026 (estimated) - Same as Regular Decision, with additional time recommended for visa processing.

The University of Michigan’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for U.S. universities, particularly in the Midwest, with breaks scheduled around major holidays like Thanksgiving and Labor Day. This structure offers predictability for students and families, while the optional Spring/Summer term provides flexibility for international students or those pursuing accelerated programs. Additionally, the admissions timeline accommodates a broad range of applicants, with Early Action and Regular Decision options ensuring accessibility. However, international students are encouraged to apply early to account for visa processing times. Note that the above dates are estimates based on historical patterns, as the official 2025-2026 calendar and admissions deadlines may not yet be publicly available.