Starting a new academic year at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) means stepping into an environment that blends flexibility, innovation, and global opportunity. For both domestic and international students, knowing the official term dates is essential for organizing travel plans, coursework, and semester goals. The 2025–2026 SNHU Academic Calendar offers a clear picture of when classes begin, holidays occur, and assessments conclude — helping every student map out their studies with confidence.
This detailed calendar highlights the semester schedules for undergraduate and graduate programs, along with special timelines for international students arriving for orientation and check-in. Whether you’re planning your first semester at SNHU or returning for another year of study, these key dates will ensure a smooth and well-prepared academic journey.
Table of Contents
Overview of the 2025–2026 Academic Year
Southern New Hampshire University follows a semester-based academic structure, divided into Fall, Spring, and Summer sessions. Undergraduate programs typically operate across Fall and Spring semesters, while graduate students benefit from an additional Summer term — providing greater flexibility for completing degrees or accelerating study plans.
All dates below are based on the official 2025–2026 SNHU Academic Calendar, with additional verified information for international student check-ins and orientation periods. Since academic scheduling can occasionally change, it’s always a good idea to confirm the latest details through your student portal or acceptance letter.
Undergraduate Academic Calendar 2025–2026
Fall 2025 Semester
- Opening Weekend: Friday, August 29 – Sunday, August 31, 2025
A welcoming experience where new and returning students move in, explore the campus, and join induction events. - Classes Begin: Tuesday, September 2, 2025
- Add/Drop Deadline: Monday, September 8, 2025
- Fall Break: Monday, October 13, 2025 (No classes; offices open)
- Veterans Day: Tuesday, November 11, 2025 (University closed)
- Thanksgiving Recess: Wednesday, November 26 – Friday, November 28, 2025
- Last Week of Classes: Monday, December 15 – Friday, December 19, 2025
- Residence Halls Close: Friday, December 19, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. or within 24 hours after the last final.
- Semester Ends: Sunday, December 21, 2025
- Final Grades Due: Tuesday, December 23, 2025, by 12:00 p.m. ET
Spring 2026 Semester
- Returning Student Check-In: Sunday, January 4, 2026
- Classes Begin: Monday, January 5, 2026
- Add/Drop Deadline: Sunday, January 11, 2026
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, January 19, 2026 (University closed)
- Student Wellbeing Days: Thursday, February 5 – Friday, February 6, 2026
- Spring Recess: Monday, March 2 – Friday, March 6, 2026
- Last Week of Classes: Monday, April 20 – Friday, April 24, 2026
- Residence Halls Close: Friday, April 24, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
- Semester Ends: Sunday, April 26, 2026
- Final Grades Due: Tuesday, April 28, 2026, by noon ET
International Student Academic Dates and Deadlines
SNHU diverse and global community welcomes students from over 100 countries each year. To make arrival and adjustment easier, the university provides customized check-in and orientation dates that allow international students time to settle in, complete visa processes, and get acquainted with campus life.
Applications should ideally be submitted before the priority deadline, with flexibility for an additional one-month window if spots remain available.
Key reminders:
- Arrival on or before the check-in date is mandatory.
- Orientation attendance is compulsory for all new international students.
- Always verify your dates through your official acceptance letter or SNHU’s Office of International Student Services (OISS).
Undergraduate International Student Dates (2025–2027)
Spring 2026 Intake
- Campus Check-In: Monday, December 29, 2025
- Orientation: Friday, January 2, 2026
- Classes Begin: Monday, January 5, 2026
- Term Ends: Sunday, April 26, 2026
Fall 2026 Intake
- Campus Check-In: Monday, August 24, 2026
- Orientation: Friday, August 28, 2026
- Term Start: Monday, August 31, 2026
- Term End: Friday, December 18, 2026
Spring 2027 Intake
- Campus Check-In: Monday, December 28, 2026
- Orientation: Wednesday, December 30, 2026
- Term Start: Monday, January 4, 2027
- Term End: Friday, April 23, 2027
Graduate International Student Dates (2025–2027)
Spring 2026 Term
- Campus Check-In: Monday, December 29, 2025
- Orientation: Friday, January 2, 2026
- Term Start: Monday, January 5, 2026
- Term End: Sunday, April 26, 2026
Summer 2026 Term
- Campus Check-In: Monday, April 27, 2026
- Orientation: Friday, May 1, 2026
- Term Start: Monday, May 4, 2026
- Term End: Sunday, August 23, 2026
Fall 2026 Term
- Campus Check-In: Monday, August 24, 2026
- Orientation: Friday, August 28, 2026
- Term Start: Monday, August 31, 2026
- Term End: Friday, December 18, 2026
Spring 2027 Term
- Campus Check-In: Monday, December 28, 2026
- Orientation: Wednesday, December 30, 2026
- Term Start: Monday, January 4, 2027
- Term End: Friday, April 23, 2027
Key Reminders for International Students
- Apply before the priority deadline for guaranteed processing.
- Late applications (within 1 month after deadline) may still be reviewed, space permitting.
- Submit complete documentation, including financial proof and English proficiency results.
- Attend orientation week to register for classes and complete immigration check-ins.
- Contact OISS for visa help, arrival guidance, or housing information.
- Keep track of I-20 issuance timelines and book flights early.
University Holidays and Breaks (2025–2026)
- Labor Day: Monday, September 1, 2025
- Thanksgiving Break: Wednesday, November 26 – Friday, November 28, 2025
- Winter Recess: Saturday, December 20, 2025 – Sunday, January 4, 2026
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Monday, January 19, 2026
- Memorial Day: Monday, May 25, 2026
- Independence Day: Saturday, July 4, 2026
Tips for a Smooth Academic Year
- Plan early to arrive before orientation and avoid travel stress.
- Confirm housing before traveling; on-campus spots fill up quickly.
- Prepare your documents — passport, I-20, visa, and acceptance letter.
- Use the Wellbeing Days to rest, recharge, or attend skill-building sessions.
- Stay updated through SNHU’s student portal for any date revisions.
Final Thoughts
The SNHU Academic Calendar 2025–2026 reflects the university’s commitment to structure, student success, and inclusivity. With well-defined semesters, essential breaks, and flexible graduate options, it provides an academic rhythm that supports learning and personal development.
International students benefit from a dedicated onboarding timeline, ensuring they can transition smoothly into SNHU’s vibrant and supportive campus environment.
For official updates, always check the SNHU website or contact the Office of International Student Services (OISS) directly.