Academic Calendar
The academic year begins in early September and ends in mid-June.
The academic year begins in early September and ends in mid-June. The summer break lasts about three months, from mid-June to late August.
Fall Semester: September – December 2019
The fall semester is the first semester of the academic year. It is also known as the “academic year.” This term typically begins in late August or early September and ends in late May or early June. The fall semester is one of the most popular times for students to study abroad because scheduling classes around your travel plans is more accessible than during other parts of the year (like spring break). Many universities offer special programs for students who want to study abroad during their fall semesters at Harvard University, including our Global Citizen Program!
Spring Semester: January – May 2020
Spring semester is the second semester of the academic year, beginning in January and ending in May. It’s typically shorter than the fall semester but more focused on research than classes for credit.
Summer Term I (Maymester): May 21 through June 15, 2020
Maymester is a four-week session held in May that’s not part of the regular academic calendar. It’s an optional program, but most students take it, and it’s a great way to get ahead on coursework.
Spring Semester: January – May 2020
Spring semester is the second semester of the academic year, beginning in January and ending in May. It’s typically shorter than the fall semester but more focused on research than classes for credit.
Summer Term II (June): July 1 through September 3, 2020
Summer term is a 3-week course that may be taken as an option to fulfil your degree requirements. Summer Term II (June): July 1 through September 3, 2020.
Summer Term II is open to any student who has completed at least two semesters at Harvard. You do not need permission from your advisor or department chairperson to enrol in this class; however, you should inform them of your plans and make sure they know what classes you’re taking so that they can approve any changes in your academic schedule if necessary (i.e., adding additional courses). It’s also recommended that students consult with their academic advisors before registering for summer courses because some systems require prerequisites or corequisites, which may prevent enrollment if not satisfied before the registration date.