The academic year 2025/26 at the University of Portsmouth begins in September 2025 and runs through September 2026. This schedule includes orientation events, term dates, assessment periods, holidays, and graduation ceremonies. While most students follow the same academic calendar, some programs, such as Nursing, Education, and Engineering, may have slightly different timetables.
It’s always a good idea to check with your Course Administration Team or Department for course-specific teaching and vacation schedules. Having a clear view of your academic year ensures that you can stay organized, meet deadlines, and take full advantage of the opportunities available on campus.
International Orientation Week
Orientation Week is designed especially for international students to help them settle into university life, make friends, and get familiar with the city. It includes guided tours, social activities, academic preparation workshops, and sessions about student support and UK culture.
- For September 2025 intake:
Monday 15 September 2025 – Sunday 21 September 2025 - For January 2026 intake:
Monday 19 January 2026 – Sunday 25 January 2026
This is a fantastic opportunity for new students to connect, explore campus facilities, and get essential guidance on studying and living in Portsmouth.
Induction Week
Induction Week officially marks the start of the term for all students. It’s your first taste of university life — meeting your lecturers, exploring modules, learning how assessments work, and engaging with student societies.
- September 2025 starters:
Monday 22 September 2025 – Friday 26 September 2025 - January 2026 starters:
Monday 19 January 2026 – Friday 23 January 2026
During this week, students also attend sessions on digital tools like Moodle and MyPort, which are essential for managing coursework and communication throughout the year.
University of Portsmouth Term Dates 2025/26
The University follows a three-term academic structure — Autumn, Spring, and Summer Terms. Each term includes a mix of lectures, workshops, assessments, and consolidation weeks designed to enhance learning and reflection.
Autumn Term 2025
- Term Dates: Monday 22 September 2025 – Friday 19 December 2025
- Consolidation Week: Monday 27 October 2025 – Friday 31 October 2025
The Autumn Term begins the academic year, setting the tone with core lectures, tutorials, and early coursework. The Consolidation Week in late October offers a breather — a chance to revise, seek feedback, and strengthen your understanding before mid-term assessments.
By December, most students will complete their first projects and prepare to wind down for the Christmas break.
Spring Term 2026
- Term Dates: Monday 12 January 2026 – Friday 27 March 2026
- Assessment Period: Monday 12 January 2026 – Friday 23 January 2026
- Consolidation Week: Monday 9 March 2026 – Friday 13 March 2026
The Spring Term is filled with intensive learning and assessments. The January assessment period helps students gauge progress, while the March consolidation week provides time for review and reflection before final coursework submissions.
Spring is also a vibrant time on campus — with societies in full swing, career fairs, and student-led events that make Portsmouth’s academic life dynamic and social.
Summer Term 2026
- Term Dates: Monday 20 April 2026 – Friday 26 June 2026
- Assessment Period: Monday 18 May 2026 – Friday 12 June 2026
The Summer Term wraps up the academic year for most programs. It’s primarily focused on final exams, dissertations, and presentations. For graduating students, this is an exciting but busy period — with assessments leading up to the long-awaited Graduation Ceremony Week.
Vacation Dates 2025/26
The University of Portsmouth calendar also includes dedicated vacation periods, giving students valuable time to rest, travel, or gain work experience.
Christmas Break
Monday 22 December 2025 – Friday 9 January 2026
This festive holiday is a perfect time to recharge or visit family before returning for the Spring Term.
Easter Break
Monday 30 March 2026 – Friday 17 April 2026
An ideal opportunity to catch up on assignments or enjoy a spring getaway. Portsmouth’s coastal location makes it easy to explore nearby destinations like Brighton or London.
Summer Break
Monday 29 June 2026 – Friday 18 September 2026
This is the longest break of the academic year. Many students use it to travel, undertake internships, or prepare for postgraduate studies.
Note for international students:
Check the university’s Working During Studies page for visa and work restrictions related to vacation periods.
Graduation Ceremony Week
Graduation is a proud and emotional moment for every student. The University of Portsmouth Graduation Ceremony Week celebrates your achievements at the iconic Portsmouth Guildhall. Students, families, and faculty come together to mark the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
Exact ceremony dates are announced closer to the summer of 2026, and students can find updates on the official university graduation page.
Referral/Deferral Period
Monday 13 July 2026 – Friday 31 July 2026
This period allows students to resit exams or resubmit coursework if needed. It ensures everyone has the chance to meet academic requirements without delaying progress into the next academic year.
Studying and Living in Portsmouth
Located on the south coast of England, Portsmouth offers a unique blend of academic excellence and seaside lifestyle. The city is student-friendly, walkable, and rich in history — from the Historic Dockyard to Southsea Beach.
Students can explore:
- Gunwharf Quays for shopping and entertainment.
- Southsea Common for outdoor activities and festivals.
- Isle of Wight and London, both easily accessible for weekend trips.
Balancing your academic commitments with Portsmouth’s vibrant social scene makes your university experience truly memorable.
Quick Summary – Key University of Portsmouth Dates 2025/26
| Event | Dates |
|---|---|
| International Orientation (Sept Intake) | 15–21 Sept 2025 |
| Induction Week (Sept Intake) | 22–26 Sept 2025 |
| Autumn Term | 22 Sept – 19 Dec 2025 |
| Christmas Break | 22 Dec 2025 – 9 Jan 2026 |
| Spring Term | 12 Jan – 27 Mar 2026 |
| Easter Break | 30 Mar – 17 Apr 2026 |
| Summer Term | 20 Apr – 26 Jun 2026 |
| Summer Vacation | 29 Jun – 18 Sept 2026 |
| Referral/Deferral Period | 13–31 July 2026 |
Conclusion
The University of Portsmouth Term Dates 2025/26 offer students a clear and balanced structure to make the most of their academic year. Whether you’re planning your study timetable, booking flights, or scheduling work placements, knowing these dates helps you stay one step ahead.
With a strong academic environment, a supportive community, and the charm of a coastal city, the University of Portsmouth continues to be an inspiring place to study, grow, and achieve your goals.