The University of Virginia (UVA), located in Charlottesville, Virginia, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar. This structure includes a fall semester typically beginning in late August and concluding in mid-December, a spring semester running from mid-January to early May, and optional summer sessions for additional coursework. UVA also features a unique January Term (J-Term), a short, intensive period between semesters where students can engage in specialized courses or study abroad programs. Breaks align with major holidays, such as Thanksgiving in late November and a winter break spanning December to January, providing students ample time for rest or internships.
UVA’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for semester-based systems, particularly among public universities in the United States, with fall and spring terms mirroring typical academic cycles. The inclusion of the J-Term offers flexibility, especially for international students or those seeking accelerated learning opportunities. Additionally, breaks are scheduled around major U.S. holidays like Thanksgiving and Independence Day (for summer sessions), ensuring cultural and regional relevance. While exact dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on historical data, UVA’s consistent scheduling provides predictability for planning purposes. Students are encouraged to check official university announcements for confirmed dates as they become available.
