Washington University in St. Louis Jobs

Washington University in St. Louis

5 Star University
St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Washington University in St. Louis Academic Calendar

Washington University in St. Louis Employer Profile

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU), located in St. Louis, Missouri, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar. The university structures its academic year into two main semesters—Fall and Spring—with an optional Summer session for additional coursework or internships. Typically, the Fall semester begins in late August and concludes in mid-December, while the Spring semester starts in mid-January and ends in early May. WashU also incorporates significant breaks, such as a winter break spanning late December to early January and a spring break in March, aligning with many other U.S. universities. This structure supports a balance of rigorous academics and opportunities for rest or experiential learning.

  • Fall Semester Start: August 25, 2025 (estimated). Classes begin for undergraduate and graduate students.
  • Labor Day Holiday: September 1, 2025. No classes; university offices closed.
  • Thanksgiving Break: November 26–30, 2025 (estimated). No classes; campus services limited.
  • Fall Semester End: December 12, 2025 (estimated). Final exams typically conclude by mid-December.
  • Winter Break: December 13, 2025–January 11, 2026 (estimated). Campus largely closed for the holiday season.
  • Spring Semester Start: January 12, 2026 (estimated). Classes resume after winter break.
  • Spring Break: March 9–15, 2026 (estimated). A week-long break for students.
  • Commencement: May 15, 2026 (estimated). Graduation ceremonies for all degree programs.
  • Early Decision I Deadline: November 1, 2025 (estimated). Binding decision; notifications typically released by mid-December 2025.
  • Early Decision II Deadline: January 2, 2026 (estimated). Binding decision; notifications typically released by mid-February 2026.
  • Regular Decision Deadline: January 2, 2026 (estimated). Non-binding; notifications typically released by early April 2026.
  • Financial Aid Application Deadline: February 1, 2026 (estimated). Recommended for priority consideration alongside admissions applications.
  • Enrollment Deposit Deadline: May 1, 2026 (estimated). Required to secure a spot for the Class of 2030.

The academic calendar at Washington University in St. Louis aligns closely with national norms for U.S. universities, particularly in the Midwest, with semesters mirroring those of peer institutions. Key holidays like Labor Day and Thanksgiving are observed, ensuring compatibility with regional and national schedules. For international students, the extended winter break offers flexibility for travel, while the optional summer session provides opportunities for accelerated learning or catching up on credits. WashU’s calendar also accommodates research-intensive periods, especially for undergraduates involved in faculty-led projects, with breaks strategically placed to support mental health and academic focus. While specific dates for 2025–2026 are estimates based on historical patterns, students are encouraged to check official university announcements for confirmed schedules.

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