Laurier Academic Calendar

Wilfrid Laurier University, located in Ontario, Canada, operates on a semester-based academic calendar, typically divided into three main terms: Fall (September to December), Winter (January to April), and Spring/Summer (May to August). The Fall and Winter semesters are the primary academic terms for most undergraduate programs, featuring a mix of lectures, midterms, and final exams. A notable feature of Laurier’s calendar is its alignment with Canadian statutory holidays, such as Thanksgiving in October and Family Day in February, which often result in short breaks. Additionally, the university offers intersession and summer courses for students seeking flexibility or accelerated learning, with condensed schedules during the warmer months.

• Fall Semester Start: Early September 2025 (typically the first week after Labour Day), marking the beginning of the academic year.
• Thanksgiving Break: October 13, 2025, providing a long weekend for students and faculty.
• Fall Midterm Break: Mid-October 2025 (often a week-long break around October 14–18), allowing time for study or rest.
• Winter Semester Start: Early January 2026 (usually the first full week), following the holiday break.
• Winter Break: Mid-February 2026 (typically a week around Family Day, February 16), offering a mid-term pause.
• Final Exams (Winter): Mid-to-late April 2026, concluding the main academic year.
• Commencement Ceremonies: Early June 2026, celebrating graduating students across various faculties.

• Early Application Deadline: November 1, 2024, for early consideration for competitive programs; notifications often sent by late winter.
• Regular Decision Deadline: January 15, 2025, for most undergraduate programs; decisions typically released by March or April.
• International Student Deadline: April 1, 2025, to allow time for visa processing and other requirements.
• Financial Aid Application Deadline: Early June 2025, aligning with Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) timelines.
• Acceptance Confirmation Deadline: June 1, 2025, for most programs, securing a spot for the Fall 2025 intake.

The academic calendar at Wilfrid Laurier University aligns closely with other Canadian institutions, particularly in Ontario, where the Fall-Winter semester structure is standard. Breaks often coincide with national holidays like Thanksgiving and Family Day, providing predictable pauses for students. For international students, the calendar offers sufficient lead time between admissions deadlines and term starts to accommodate travel and visa arrangements. However, the condensed Spring/Summer terms may pose scheduling challenges for those balancing internships or research. As specific dates for the 2025–2026 academic year and admissions cycle may not yet be finalized, the above timelines are estimates based on historical patterns at Laurier and similar universities in the region.