The University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar, consisting of Fall and Spring semesters, along with optional Summer sessions. The Fall semester typically begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in mid-January and ends in mid-May. Summer sessions vary in length, often spanning May through August, offering flexibility for students to accelerate their studies or catch up on coursework. UNR also incorporates significant breaks, such as a winter intersession in December and January, and a spring break in March, aligning with regional school calendars to accommodate students and faculty.
UNR’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for semester-based systems, particularly in the western United States, ensuring compatibility with public holidays like Labor Day and Thanksgiving. The scheduling offers flexibility for international students through extended application timelines and summer sessions, accommodating diverse academic needs. Additionally, the university’s calendar supports research-intensive periods during intersessions, providing opportunities for focused study or internships. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on historical patterns, students are encouraged to verify exact timelines through official university communications as the academic year approaches.