As students and faculty gear up for the upcoming academic year, the UC San Diego academic calendar for 2025-26 holds vital information for planning. This calendar outlines important dates such as the start and end of terms, holidays, and breaks, ensuring everyone stays on track throughout the year.
Understanding the academic calendar is crucial for effective scheduling, whether it’s for classes, exams, or campus events. With a clear roadmap of the year ahead, students can better manage their time, balancing academic responsibilities with personal commitments. Familiarizing oneself with these dates can make all the difference in a successful academic journey at UCSD.
Overview of UCSD Academic Calendar 2025-26
The UC San Diego academic calendar for the 2025-26 year includes critical dates that guide students, faculty, and staff throughout the academic process. This calendar outlines the start and end of each quarter, as well as holidays and important academic deadlines.
Key Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Fall Quarter Begins | September 24, 2025 |
| Fall Quarter Ends | December 12, 2025 |
| Winter Quarter Begins | January 5, 2026 |
| Winter Quarter Ends | March 20, 2026 |
| Spring Quarter Begins | April 6, 2026 |
| Spring Quarter Ends | June 17, 2026 |
| Commencement | June 18, 2026 |
Holidays and Breaks
The academic calendar also includes designated holidays and breaks. Notable days consist of:
- Thanksgiving Break: November 26-28, 2025
- Winter Break: December 13, 2025 – January 4, 2026
- Spring Break: March 21-29, 2026
Exam Periods
Exams are held during the last week of each quarter. Specific dates include:
- Finals Week for Fall: December 7-12, 2025
- Finals Week for Winter: March 16-20, 2026
- Finals Week for Spring: June 13-17, 2026
Awareness of these dates is crucial for students planning coursework and extracurricular activities, ensuring they allocate sufficient time for study and personal commitments.
Important Dates and Deadlines
Awareness of key dates and deadlines on the UC San Diego academic calendar for the 2025-26 year enhances academic planning and time management for students. Below are the details for each quarter.
Fall Quarter Dates
- Start Date: September 24, 2025
- End Date: December 12, 2025
- Thanksgiving Break: November 26-28, 2025
- Finals Week: December 7-12, 2025
Winter Quarter Dates
- Start Date: January 5, 2026
- End Date: March 20, 2026
- Winter Break: December 13, 2025, to January 4, 2026
- Finals Week: March 16-20, 2026
Spring Quarter Dates
- Start Date: April 6, 2026
- End Date: June 17, 2026
- Spring Break: March 21-29, 2026
- Finals Week: June 13-17, 2026
- Commencement: June 18, 2026
Registration Information
Understanding the registration process and critical dates is essential for a smooth academic experience at UC San Diego during the 2025-26 academic year.
Enrollment Procedures
Enrollment at UCSD occurs via the WebReg system. Students may begin enrolling for classes after their assigned registration date. Registration times are based on class standing, with seniors typically getting priority. To ensure a successful enrollment process, students should verify their academic status, complete any required prerequisites, and maintain awareness of any holds on their accounts. It’s prudent to regularly check for updates regarding enrollment procedures and to consult with academic advisors for guidance.
Important Registration Dates
The important registration dates for the 2025-26 academic year include:
| Date | Description |
|---|---|
| August 1, 2025 | Begin enrollment period for returning students |
| August 15, 2025 | Start of enrollment for new students |
| September 10, 2025 | Deadline for adding classes |
| September 20, 2025 | Last day for dropping classes without a “W” grade |
| October 15, 2025 | Final day to withdraw from classes |
Keeping track of these dates ensures that students can complete their registration on time and avoid penalties or complications in their academic schedules.
Academic Policies
Understanding the academic policies at UC San Diego for the 2025-26 year aids in navigating the educational landscape effectively. Students must familiarize themselves with the grading system and withdrawal policies to ensure compliance and maximize their academic success.
Grading System Changes
The grading system at UC San Diego features several key elements, including letter grades and Pass/No Pass (P/NP) options. The standard grading scale ranges from A (4.0) to F (0.0). For the 2025-26 academic year, any adjustments will be communicated through official channels. The implementation of P/NP grading can occur upon request and is typically subject to specific deadlines, such as September 20, 2025, for Fall Quarter classes. Awareness of these changes ensures students maintain optimal academic standing and understand how their grades affect GPA calculations.
Withdrawal and Refund Policies
Withdrawal from courses at UC San Diego follows specific guidelines and deadlines. For the 2025-26 academic year, students may withdraw from classes without academic penalty until October 15, 2025, for the Fall Quarter. After this date, withdrawals incur a “W” grade, which does not affect GPA but appears on transcripts. Refund policies align with withdrawal dates, allowing students to reclaim tuition partially or fully based on timing. For instance, a full refund occurs if the withdrawal happens before the semester’s tenth day. Understanding these policies helps students make informed decisions regarding their academic schedules and financial commitments.
Resources for Students
Students at UC San Diego can access various resources to support their academic journey during the 2025-26 year.
Academic Advising Services
Academic advising services play a vital role in helping students navigate their education. Advisors offer personalized guidance on course selection, degree requirements, and academic policies. They assist students in developing academic plans tailored to their goals. Advisors also provide strategies for effective time management and study habits. Students should schedule regular meetings with their advisors to stay on track and address any academic challenges.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Financial aid and scholarships are essential resources for students seeking financial assistance. The Financial Aid Office offers various options, including grants, loans, and work-study programs. Students can apply for financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the California Dream Act Application. Additionally, numerous scholarships are available, ranging from merit-based to need-based opportunities. Students are encouraged to explore scholarship databases, attend workshops, and meet deadlines to enhance their chances of securing funding for their studies.
The UC San Diego academic calendar for the 2025-26 year serves as a vital tool for students aiming to navigate their academic journey effectively. By staying informed about key dates and deadlines students can optimize their time management and academic planning.
Utilizing resources such as academic advising and the Financial Aid Office further enhances their experience. Understanding these elements allows students to balance their coursework and personal commitments, paving the way for a successful academic year at UCSD. As they prepare for the upcoming year it’s essential to keep this calendar handy to ensure a smooth transition into each quarter.
