The University of New South Wales (UNSW) follows a structured academic calendar that enables students to plan their studies effectively. The year is divided into a Summer Term, followed by three main terms (T1, T2, and T3). Each term features defined teaching sessions, flexibility weeks, study periods, and examinations, ensuring that students have both structure and opportunities for academic balance.
Table of Contents
This guide provides a detailed overview of the 2025 and 2026 UNSW academic calendars, helping current and future students organize their studies across two years.
Summer Term
The Summer Term bridges the end of one academic year and the beginning of the next. Although it often starts in December or January, it contributes to the current academic year’s program of study.
2025 Summer Term
- UNSW Shutdown: 24 December 2024 – 5 January 2025
- Teaching Period U1: 6 January – 7 February
- Exams U1: 8 February – 10 February
2026 Summer Term
- UNSW Shutdown: 23 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
- Teaching Period U1: 5 January – 6 February
- Exams U1: 7 February – 9 February
This short session is an excellent option for students seeking to accelerate their studies, complete prerequisite courses, or lighten their load in later terms. Exams conclude before Term 1 begins, ensuring a smooth transition into the new year.
Term 1 (T1)
2025 Term 1
- O-Week: 10 February – 14 February
- Teaching Period T1: 17 February – 24 April
- Teaching Period T1A: 17 February – 21 March
- Flexibility Week: 24 March – 30 March
- Teaching Period T1B: 24 March – 24 April
- Study Period: 26 April – 1 May
- Exams: 2 May – 15 May
- Teaching Period T1C: 5 May – 30 May
2026 Term 1
- O-Week: 9 February – 13 February
- Teaching Period T1: 16 February – 24 April
- Teaching Period T1A: 16 February – 20 March
- Flexibility Week: 23 March – 29 March
- Teaching Period T1B: 23 March – 24 April
- Study Period: 25 April – 30 April
- Exams: 1 May – 14 May
- Teaching Period T1C: 4 May – 29 May
Term 2 (T2)
2025 Term 2
- O-Week: 26 May – 30 May
- Teaching Period T2: 2 June – 8 August
- Teaching Period T2A: 2 June – 4 July
- Flexibility Week: 7 July – 13 July
- Teaching Period T2B: 7 July – 8 August
- Study Period: 9 August – 14 August
- Exams: 15 August – 28 August
- Teaching Period T2C: 18 August – 12 September
2026 Term 2
- O-Week: 25 May – 29 May
- Teaching Period T2: 1 June – 7 August
- Teaching Period T2A: 1 June – 3 July
- Flexibility Week: 6 July – 12 July
- Teaching Period T2B: 6 July – 7 August
- Study Period: 8 August – 13 August
- Exams: 14 August – 27 August
- Teaching Period T2C: 17 August – 11 September
Term 3 (T3)
2025 Term 3
- O-Week: 8 September – 12 September
- Teaching Period T3: 15 September – 21 November
- Teaching Period T3A: 15 September – 17 October
- Flexibility Week: 20 October – 26 October
- Teaching Period T3B: 20 October – 21 November
- Study Period: 22 November – 27 November
- Teaching Period T3C: 24 November – 19 December
- Exams: 28 November – 11 December
2026 Term 3
- O-Week: 7 September – 11 September
- Teaching Period T3: 14 September – 20 November
- Teaching Period T3A: 14 September – 16 October
- Flexibility Week: 19 October – 25 October
- Teaching Period T3B: 19 October – 20 November
- Study Period: 21 November – 26 November
- Teaching Period T3C: 23 November – 18 December
- Exams: 27 November – 10 December
Academic Planning Tips for 2025–2026
- Maximize Flexibility Weeks: Use these breaks to revise thoroughly, catch up on assignments, and consult academic advisors if needed.
- Prepare Early for Exams: Since exams occur at the end of every term, consistent revision reduces last-minute stress.
- Balance Commitments: UNSW’s trimester system requires steady pacing. Allocate time for coursework, part-time work, and personal life.
- Utilize the Summer Term: Consider enrolling in Summer Term units to accelerate degree completion or reduce the intensity of main terms.
- Stay Informed: Always confirm dates via official UNSW communications in case of calendar adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the Summer Term count towards the academic year?
Yes. Even though the Summer Term begins at the end of the previous year, it contributes to the current academic year’s study load.
2. What is the purpose of Flexibility Week?
Flexibility Weeks are not holidays. They are designed for revision, project work, consultation with staff, or preparation for upcoming assessments.
3. Do I need to attend Orientation Week (O-Week)?
While not compulsory, Orientation Week is highly recommended for new and continuing students as it provides essential academic and support resources.
4. Can I take courses in T1C, T2C, and T3C only?
Yes, some courses are offered exclusively in these shorter teaching blocks, providing additional flexibility for students managing workloads.
5. How long is the exam period at UNSW?
Each term has a two-week exam period. Exams typically run in May, August, and November–December, depending on the term.
6. Is there a break between terms?
Yes. Short breaks occur between terms, giving students time to rest, travel, or prepare for the next academic block.
Conclusion
The UNSW academic calendars for 2025 and 2026 provide a clear framework for academic planning across two full years. With structured teaching sessions, flexibility weeks, and examination schedules, students can effectively manage their workloads and prepare for success. By aligning study strategies with these dates and making use of flexibility weeks and the Summer Term, students can optimize their academic experience at UNSW.