UT Academic Calendar

The University of Texas at Austin operates on a semester-based academic calendar, typically divided into fall, spring, and summer terms. The fall semester generally begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the spring semester runs from mid-January to early May. Summer sessions vary, offering shorter, intensive courses between May and August. This structure aligns with many large public universities in the United States, providing students with extended breaks in December and during the summer months. A notable feature of UT Austin’s calendar is its alignment with significant state and national holidays, ensuring students have time for rest and cultural observances.

• Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated based on typical schedules). Classes begin with orientation events for new students.
• Labor Day Holiday: September 1, 2025. Campus is closed for this national holiday.
• Thanksgiving Break: November 26–28, 2025 (estimated). A week-long break for students and faculty to observe the holiday.
• Fall Final Exams: December 8–12, 2025 (estimated). End-of-semester assessments before winter break.
• Winter Break: December 13, 2025–January 11, 2026 (estimated). Extended holiday period with campus largely closed.
• Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (estimated). Classes resume after winter break.
• Spring Break: March 16–20, 2026 (estimated). A mid-semester break for students.
• Commencement: May 8–9, 2026 (estimated). Graduation ceremonies for spring graduates.

• Early Action Deadline: November 1, 2024 (estimated for Class of 2030). Applicants are encouraged to apply early for priority consideration; decisions typically released by mid-February.
• Regular Decision Deadline: December 1, 2024 (estimated). Final deadline for freshman applications; decisions often notified by early March.
• Priority Financial Aid Deadline: January 15, 2025 (estimated). Recommended date to submit FAFSA for maximum aid consideration.
• Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2025 (estimated). Admitted students must confirm enrollment by this date.
• International Student Application Deadline: December 1, 2024 (estimated). Same as regular decision, with additional time needed for visa processing.

The academic calendar at the University of Texas at Austin aligns closely with national norms for public universities, incorporating breaks around for major holidays like Thanksgiving and Labor Day, which are widely observed in the region. This structure offers predictability for students, including international ones, who can plan travel and visa processes around well-defined semester breaks. Additionally, the university’s admissions timeline accommodates a diverse applicant pool by offering both early action and regular decision options, ensuring flexibility for students with varying preparation timelines. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on historical patterns, UT Austin typically publishes official calendars well in advance, allowing ample planning time for prospective and current students.