Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU), located in Richmond, Virginia, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar. The university typically divides its academic year into three main terms: Fall, Spring, and Summer. The Fall semester generally begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in mid-January and ends in early May. Summer sessions vary in length, often running from May through August with multiple shorter terms for intensive study. VCU’s calendar includes standard breaks such as Thanksgiving, Winter Break, and Spring Break, aligning with common academic schedules across the United States. This structure supports a balance of rigorous coursework and opportunities for internships or research, especially during the flexible Summer term.
VCU’s academic calendar aligns closely with national norms for semester-based systems, featuring predictable start and end dates that correspond with major U.S. holidays like Labor Day and Thanksgiving. This structure offers consistency for both domestic and international students, with ample breaks to accommodate travel or personal commitments. The university’s Summer term provides additional flexibility, allowing students to accelerate their studies or focus on specialized programs. For international students, VCU’s clear admissions timelines and early deadlines ensure sufficient time for visa applications and other logistical preparations. While specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on historical patterns, prospective students and families are encouraged to verify exact dates through official university communications as they become available.
