Western University, located in Ontario, Canada, operates on a traditional semester-based academic calendar, dividing the year into two main terms: Fall and Winter, with an optional Summer term. The Fall semester typically begins in early September and concludes in mid-December, while the Winter semester runs from early January to late April. The Summer term, often used for intensive courses or internships, spans May to August. A notable feature of Western’s calendar is its Reading Week in both Fall and Winter terms, providing students with a mid-semester break to recharge or catch up on studies.
Western University’s academic calendar aligns with many Canadian institutions, incorporating breaks around national holidays like Thanksgiving and Family Day, ensuring students and faculty can observe these periods. The structure offers flexibility for international students, with clear term start and end dates facilitating travel and visa planning. Additionally, the optional Summer term provides opportunities for accelerated learning or research, reflecting Western’s emphasis on accommodating diverse academic needs. Note that the above dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle are estimates based on typical patterns, as specific calendars may not yet be publicly available.