The University of San Diego (USD), located in San Diego, California, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, which is typical for many U.S. universities. The academic year is divided into two main semesters—Fall and Spring—with an optional Summer session. The Fall semester generally begins in late August or early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester typically starts in mid-January and ends in early May. USD also features a unique Intersession in January, offering intensive short-term courses between the main semesters. This structure allows for flexibility in course scheduling and provides students with opportunities for accelerated learning or catching up on credits during breaks.
USD’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for semester-based systems, particularly in the timing of major holidays like Thanksgiving and Spring Break, which correspond to typical U.S. academic breaks. The inclusion of the January Intersession offers additional flexibility, especially for international students who may use this period to complete coursework without extending their stay over the summer. Additionally, the university’s scheduling considers the mild Southern California climate, allowing for consistent campus operations with minimal weather-related disruptions. Students are encouraged to plan around these key dates for both academic and admissions purposes to ensure a smooth experience at USD.
