UNH Academic Calendar

The University of New Haven, located in West Haven, Connecticut, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar. This structure typically includes a Fall semester beginning in late August or early September and concluding in mid-December, followed by a Spring semester starting in mid-January and ending in early May. Additionally, the university offers Summer sessions for students seeking accelerated coursework or additional credits, often spanning May through August with multiple shorter terms. A notable feature of the University of New Haven’s calendar is its alignment with major holidays, providing extended breaks during Thanksgiving, winter holidays, and spring break to accommodate student and faculty needs.

• Fall Semester Start: Late August 2025 (typically around August 25–30); marks the beginning of the academic year with orientation for new students.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–30, 2025; a short break aligning with the national holiday.
• Fall Semester End/Final Exams: Mid-December 2025 (approximately December 10–15); includes final assessments and project submissions.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to mid-January 2026; a longer break covering major winter holidays.
• Spring Semester Start: Mid-January 2026 (around January 15–20); includes returning and new student orientations.
• Spring Break: Mid-March 2026 (typically one week, around March 10–17); a mid-semester recess.
• Spring Semester End/Commencement: Early May 2026 (approximately May 5–10); culminates in graduation ceremonies for eligible students.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2025; non-binding option with decision notifications typically by mid-December 2025.
• Regular Decision Deadline: February 1, 2026; standard application deadline with notifications expected by late March or early April 2026.
• Priority Financial Aid Deadline: March 1, 2026; recommended for students seeking scholarships or need-based aid to ensure timely processing.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026; required to secure a spot for the Fall 2026 semester, often referred to as National College Decision Day.
• International Student Application Deadline: May 15, 2026; earlier processing recommended to account for visa and documentation requirements.

The University of New Haven’s academic calendar aligns closely with regional and national norms for higher education institutions in the Northeast, particularly in its semester structure and holiday breaks like Thanksgiving and winter recess. This alignment facilitates coordination with other universities for transfer students or collaborative programs. The calendar also offers flexibility for international students through extended application timelines and summer sessions, which can help with acclimation or additional coursework. However, students are encouraged to plan around key deadlines, as the university emphasizes timely submissions for admissions and financial aid to ensure a smooth transition into academic life.