The Fall Quarter at UCLA is one of the most vibrant and academically engaging times of the year. It not only marks the beginning of a new academic cycle but also welcomes thousands of students back to campus after the summer. For Fall Quarter 2025, UCLA has laid out a ucstructured calendar that combines academic milestones, important deadlines, and holiday breaks. Below is a detailed breakdown of the schedule, followed by insights and tips for students to make the most of their quarter.
Overview of Fall Quarter 2025 at UCLA
The Fall Quarter begins on Monday, September 22, 2025, and concludes on Friday, December 12, 2025. With nearly twelve weeks of instruction, followed by examinations and holiday observances, this quarter sets the tone for the rest of the academic year.
Key highlights include:
- Instruction begins on Thursday, September 25
- Study List deadline on Friday, October 10
- Instruction ends on Friday, December 5
- Final exams scheduled from December 8 to December 12
This timeline is crucial for students to plan academic commitments, prepare for exams, and balance their studies with extracurricular and holiday activities.
Important Dates to Remember
- Quarter Begins – September 22, 2025
While official instruction does not start until September 25, this date marks the official opening of the Fall Quarter. New and returning students often use this period to move into campus housing, attend orientations, and settle into UCLA’s bustling environment. It’s an excellent time to finalize schedules and connect with academic advisors. - Instruction Begins – September 25, 2025
Classes officially commence on Thursday. By this point, students should have finalized their initial course selections and be ready to engage in lectures, labs, and discussions. It’s also the best time to review syllabi carefully and map out major assignments. - Study List Deadline – October 10, 2025
By this date, students must have their Study List finalized, which officially registers their chosen courses for the quarter. Missing this deadline could result in enrollment issues, so students should double-check their course load, prerequisites, and grading options before the deadline. - Veterans Day Holiday – November 11, 2025
A mid-quarter break on a Tuesday allows students to pause and reflect. Many use this day to catch up on coursework or take a short break from campus routines. - Thanksgiving Holiday – November 27–28, 2025
One of the most anticipated breaks of the quarter, Thanksgiving offers a long weekend to spend with family and friends. For those staying on campus, UCLA often hosts community events, ensuring students still enjoy the holiday spirit. - Instruction Ends – December 5, 2025
This marks the last day of regular classes. By now, students are fully immersed in review sessions, final projects, and preparations for exams. - Common Final Exams – December 6–7, 2025
Some large courses at UCLA schedule common exams over the weekend, ensuring all students enrolled in a subject take the exam simultaneously. Students should review their course details to confirm if this applies. - Final Examinations – December 8–12, 2025
A five-day period is dedicated to final exams. This is one of the most important stretches of the quarter, and students should prepare early to reduce stress. UCLA libraries and study spaces will be bustling during this time. - Quarter Ends – December 12, 2025
With the completion of finals, the Fall Quarter officially closes. Students often celebrate their achievements before departing for the winter break. - Holiday Breaks
- Christmas Holiday: December 24–25
- New Year’s Eve/Day Holiday: December 31–January 1, 2026
These holidays provide an extended period for rest, travel, and family gatherings. The Winter campus closure dates are yet to be determined, but typically UCLA observes a brief closure during the holiday season.
Tips for Success in the Fall Quarter
- Plan Early: Use September 22–25 to finalize housing, schedules, and academic resources before instruction begins.
- Stay Organized: Mark the Study List deadline and other key dates on a planner or digital calendar to avoid missing critical deadlines.
- Balance Academics and Rest: Take advantage of mid-quarter breaks like Veterans Day and Thanksgiving to recharge.
- Prepare for Finals in Advance: Don’t wait until December to start reviewing. Break down study material into manageable portions and review consistently throughout the quarter.
- Use Campus Resources: UCLA offers tutoring centers, writing workshops, and counseling services—all of which can help students stay on track academically and personally.
The Quarter in Perspective
The Fall Quarter at UCLA is not only about academics—it’s also about community, growth, and opportunity. From the excitement of the first lecture in late September to the relief after the last final in December, students experience a dynamic mix of challenges and achievements. With holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas woven into the schedule, the quarter also creates moments for reflection, gratitude, and connection.
As the campus transitions into winter, the Fall Quarter stands out as a cornerstone of the academic year. Students who approach it with preparation and balance will find themselves well-positioned for success, both academically and personally.
Conclusion
UCLA’s Fall Quarter 2025 runs from September 22 to December 12, featuring a mix of instruction, breaks, and examinations. With careful planning and a proactive mindset, students can thrive throughout the quarter. Whether it’s meeting the October 10 Study List deadline, enjoying the Thanksgiving holiday, or conquering final exams in December, every date plays a role in shaping the student experience. By staying organized and engaged, Bruins can make Fall 2025 a rewarding start to the academic year.