The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) academic calendar for 2025–2026 is the ultimate guide for students, staff, and faculty to stay organized throughout the school year. The Fall Quarter kicks off on September 3, 2025, and Spring Quarter wraps up after finals on May 20, 2026. Along the way, students can enjoy Thanksgiving break in late November and Spring Break from March 30 to April 6, 2026. Whether you’re a new student adjusting to campus life or a returning Triton planning your graduation, keeping track of these dates is essential to succeed in UCSD’s fast-paced quarter system.
UCSD Quarter System Overview
UC San Diego operates on a quarter system, dividing the academic year into Fall, Winter, and Spring quarters—each lasting about 10 weeks of instruction, followed by finals week. There’s also a short Intersession in January and optional Summer Sessions, giving students opportunities to take additional courses, get ahead, or explore electives.
Because the quarter system moves quickly, students benefit from staying organized, planning ahead, and using the academic calendar as a tool to balance academics, internships, and personal life.
Fall Quarter 2025: Important Dates
Fall Quarter is the start of the new academic year, bringing thousands of students back to campus.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| August 27, 2025 (Wednesday) | Registration & Fee Payment Deadline |
| September 1, 2025 (Monday) | Labor Day Holiday – No Classes |
| September 3, 2025 (Wednesday) | First Day of Classes |
| November 26–28, 2025 (Wed–Fri) | Thanksgiving Break – Campus Closed |
| December 12, 2025 (Friday) | Last Day of Classes |
| December 15–19, 2025 (Mon–Fri) | Final Exams |
Winter Intersession 2026
Between Fall and Winter quarters, UCSD offers a 3-week Intersession for students who want to complete coursework quickly or prepare for an easier Spring load.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 5, 2026 (Monday) | Intersession Classes Begin |
| January 23, 2026 (Friday) | Intersession Ends |
Winter Quarter 2026
Winter Quarter is a busy term with a Martin Luther King Jr. holiday break mid-month.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| January 26, 2026 (Monday) | First Day of Classes |
| February 16, 2026 (Monday) | Presidents’ Day Holiday |
| March 13, 2026 (Friday) | Last Day of Classes |
| March 16–20, 2026 (Mon–Fri) | Final Exams |
Spring Quarter 2026: Key Highlights
Spring Quarter features Spring Break and leads into graduation season for many students.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| March 30 – April 6, 2026 (Mon–Mon) | Spring Break |
| April 7, 2026 (Tuesday) | Classes Resume After Break |
| May 11, 2026 (Monday) | Last Day of Classes |
| May 14–20, 2026 (Thu–Wed) | Final Examination Period |
| May 23–24, 2026 (Sat–Sun) | Commencement Ceremonies |
Summer Sessions 2026
UCSD’s Summer Sessions are a great opportunity for students to accelerate degree progress, explore electives, or enjoy smaller class sizes.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| June 1, 2026 (Monday) | Summer Session Begins |
| August 21, 2026 (Friday) | Summer Session Ends |
Why Knowing UCSD Academic Calendar Is Essential
Understanding the UCSD academic calendar gives students a major advantage. Here’s why:
- Stay Organized: Avoid missing key deadlines like registration, drop/add dates, and tuition payments.
- Plan Travel & Breaks: Schedule vacations and family visits around academic obligations.
- Reduce Stress: Knowing when finals are scheduled helps with exam prep and time management.
- Graduate on Time: Use Intersession and Summer Sessions to stay ahead of credit requirements.
Tips to Succeed in UCSD’s Quarter System
- Sync Dates to Your Phone or Planner: Digital reminders help you stay ahead of deadlines.
- Start Assignments Early: With only 10 weeks per quarter, projects and midterms come quickly.
- Take Advantage of Breaks: Rest or catch up on studies during Thanksgiving and Spring Break.
- Use Academic Advising: UCSD’s advising services can help with course planning and graduation prep.
Quick Overview of the 2025–2026 Academic Year
- Fall Quarter: September 3 – December 19, 2025
- Winter Quarter: January 26 – March 20, 2026
- Spring Break: March 30 – April 6, 2026
- Spring Quarter: April 7 – May 20, 2026
- Commencement: May 23–24, 2026
- Summer Sessions: June 1 – August 21, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. When does UCSD’s Fall Quarter 2025 start and end?
Fall Quarter begins on September 3, 2025 and ends on December 19, 2025 after finals week.
2. How many quarters are in UCSD’s academic year?
UCSD follows a quarter system with Fall, Winter, and Spring quarters, plus optional Intersession and Summer Sessions.
3. When is Spring Break at UCSD in 2026?
Spring Break is scheduled for March 30 – April 6, 2026.
4. Does UCSD have a Winter Quarter?
Yes! Winter Quarter runs from January 26 to March 20, 2026, with a break for Presidents’ Day on February 16.
5. When are UCSD graduation ceremonies in 2026?
Commencement ceremonies will be held on May 23–24, 2026.
6. What holidays does UCSD observe?
UCSD observes major holidays like Labor Day (Sept 1, 2025), Thanksgiving (Nov 26–28, 2025), Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan 19, 2026), and Memorial Day (May 25, 2026).
7. How do I register for classes at UCSD?
Students can register for classes through TritonLink and should check their registration appointment times early to secure courses.
8. How long is each UCSD quarter?
Each quarter lasts about 10 weeks of instruction plus one week of finals.
Final Thoughts
The UCSD academic calendar 2025–2026 is a crucial resource for every Triton. By bookmarking this guide, you’ll stay ahead of registration deadlines, holidays, and finals week, all while making the most of your time at UC San Diego. Use the quarter system to your advantage, plan early, and set yourself up for a successful academic year!