The University of Wolverhampton has officially released its academic calendar for 2025–2026, outlining teaching weeks, assessment periods, and holidays for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Whether you’re planning your academic year, booking travel, or preparing for dissertation deadlines, this detailed guide provides everything you need to know — including tips on what to do during breaks around Wolverhampton and the West Midlands.
Overview of the Academic Year 2025–2026
The university operates on a three-semester system:
- Semester 1 (S1): September 2025 – January 2026
- Semester 2 (S2): January 2026 – May 2026
- Semester 3 (S3): May 2026 – July 2026
Each semester includes teaching, revision, and assessment weeks, followed by designated breaks and university holidays.
Semester 1 (S1): September 2025 – January 2026
- Welcome Week: 15 September 2025
Freshers’ week kicks off the new academic session, helping students settle in, register, and explore campus life. - Teaching Weeks: Begin 22 September 2025
Classes run from 22 September to 12 December 2025, covering 12 teaching weeks. - Christmas Break: From 15 December 2025 to 2 January 2026
The university closes for Christmas (25 Dec) and Boxing Day (26 Dec), reopening in early January. - Revision & Examinations:
- Revision Week: 29 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
- Exams: Begin 5 January 2026
Local tip: Wolverhampton transforms during the festive period — visit the Wolverhampton Christmas Market, explore Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market (only 20 minutes by train), or enjoy the West Park light displays.
Semester 2 (S2): January 2026 – May 2026
- Welcome Week (UG): 12 January 2026
- Teaching Weeks: 19 January – 17 April 2026
During Semester 2, students dive back into lectures and coursework. February brings Semester 1 Review Week (9–13 Feb) followed by Award Boards (16–20 Feb).
- Easter Break: 30 March – 13 April 2026
The Good Friday (3 April) and Easter Monday (6 April) holidays provide a well-deserved rest before final assessments. - Examinations: 4 May 2026 onwards
The Early May Bank Holiday (4 May) marks the start of the assessment period.
Explore during Easter: Spend a weekend at Dudley Castle and Zoo, hike the Wrekin Hills, or take a cultural trip to Shrewsbury or Ironbridge Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Semester 3 (S3): May 2026 – July 2026
Semester 3 is primarily for dissertation work, postgraduate projects, and resit examinations.
- Dissertation Weeks: 18 May – 20 July 2026
Students work on independent research or resubmit coursework as part of final-year assessments. - Resit Examinations: Begin 6 July 2026
Resits cover both undergraduate and postgraduate modules. - Summer Graduation: July 2026
The academic year concludes with graduation ceremonies, celebrating the achievements of students from across faculties.
Summer ideas: Visit Wolverhampton Art Gallery, take a short train to Stratford-upon-Avon, or enjoy nature escapes in Cannock Chase, one of England’s most scenic AONBs (Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty).
Bank Holidays & University Closures 2025–2026
The University of Wolverhampton closes on the following UK Bank Holidays:
- Summer Bank Holiday: 25 August 2025
- Christmas Day: 25 December 2025
- Boxing Day: 26 December 2025
- New Year’s Day: 1 January 2026
- Good Friday: 3 April 2026
- Easter Monday: 6 April 2026
- Early May Bank Holiday: 4 May 2026
- Spring Bank Holiday: 25 May 2026
Note: While teaching halts during these dates, certain Learning and Information Services (such as the library and online support) remain available for students. Always check the latest schedule at www.wlv.ac.uk/lib.
Assessment & Review Weeks
The university emphasises structured review and examination periods:
- Semester 1 Assessments: January 2026
- Semester 2 Assessments: May 2026
- Resit Assessments: July 2026
Students are advised to remain available throughout the full exam window, as assessment schedules may vary by course.
Non-Standard Calendars
Some programs — especially in Health, Education, and Professional Training — may follow non-standard calendars. Faculties provide bespoke timetables and placements, so students should confirm details directly with course administrators.
Life Beyond the Campus
Studying at Wolverhampton offers more than academics. The city sits at the heart of England’s West Midlands region, offering convenient links to Birmingham, Stafford, and Telford. Students can enjoy modern campus life, cultural festivals, and historical landmarks — from Wightwick Manor to Black Country Living Museum.
Whether you’re a new undergraduate or a postgraduate researcher, planning your term dates effectively ensures a smooth academic journey.
Planning Ahead
If you’re an international student, plan your arrival around Welcome Week in September 2025. The university offers orientation sessions, visa support, and accommodation assistance. For postgraduate students beginning later, Semester 3 provides flexible opportunities for dissertation research or extended study options.
Key Takeaways
- Academic Year: September 2025 – July 2026
- Three Semesters (S1, S2, S3) with dedicated teaching, revision, and assessment periods.
- Major Breaks: Christmas (Dec), Easter (Apr), Summer (Jul–Aug).
- Graduations: July 2026.
Location:
University of Wolverhampton
Wulfruna Street, Wolverhampton, WV1 1LY, United Kingdom
Website: www.wlv.ac.uk
Conclusion
The University of Wolverhampton Term Dates 2025–2026 give students a clear structure for academic and personal planning. From teaching schedules to holiday breaks, every stage supports a balanced and rewarding university experience. Make the most of your term time — study smart, explore locally, and enjoy everything the Midlands has to offer.