VIU Academic Calendar

Vancouver Island University (VIU), located in British Columbia, Canada, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, typically divided into three main terms: Fall (September to December), Spring (January to April), and Summer (May to August). The Fall and Spring semesters are the primary academic terms for most programs, featuring a mix of lectures, exams, and breaks, while the Summer term offers condensed courses and opportunities for catch-up or specialized study. A notable feature of VIU’s calendar is its alignment with Canadian statutory holidays, ensuring extended breaks during key periods like Christmas and Canada Day, alongside a reading break in both Fall and Spring semesters to support student wellness and study time.

• Fall Semester Start: Early September 2025 (typically the first week after Labour Day) – Classes begin for most undergraduate and graduate programs.
• Thanksgiving Break: October 13, 2025 – A statutory holiday with no classes scheduled.
• Fall Reading Break: Mid-October 2025 (typically a 2-3 day period) – A short break for students to recharge.
• Final Exams (Fall): Early to mid-December 2025 – Exam period lasting approximately two weeks.
• Winter Break: Mid-December 2025 to early January 2026 – Extended holiday closure for Christmas and New Year’s.
• Spring Semester Start: Early January 2026 – Classes resume after the winter break.
• Commencement: Early June 2026 – Graduation ceremonies for completing students.

• Application Opening Date: October 1, 2024 – Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year (Class of 2030) typically open for domestic and international students.
• Early Admission Deadline: December 1, 2024 – Priority deadline for competitive programs; decisions often notified by late winter.
• Regular Admission Deadline: March 31, 2025 – Final deadline for most undergraduate programs; late applications may be considered on a space-available basis.
• International Student Deadline: March 31, 2025 – Recommended deadline to allow time for visa processing and other requirements.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: Early May 2025 – Deadline for scholarships, bursaries, and other funding applications.

The academic calendar at Vancouver Island University aligns closely with other Canadian post-secondary institutions, particularly in British Columbia, with semesters mirroring national norms for holiday breaks and academic pacing. This structure offers flexibility for international students, as the extended winter break provides ample time for travel or visa-related arrangements. Additionally, VIU’s inclusion of reading breaks reflects a regional emphasis on student mental health, a trend increasingly common in Canadian universities. While specific dates for the 2025-2026 year are estimates based on historical patterns, students are encouraged to check official university announcements for confirmed schedules, as slight variations may occur due to unforeseen circumstances or policy updates.