Academic Calendar
Fall Semester
The fall semester is the longest and most popular time to take classes. It begins in late August and ends in early December, making it the most stressful time of year for students.
The fall semester is when Ohio State’s academic calendar starts with its biggest event: orientation week! This week allows new students to learn about everything they’ll need to know as they begin their college careers here at Ohio State University.
Spring Semester
The spring semester begins with the first class on January 14. This is also when you can expect your first grade in a course to be posted to your OSCAR account. The second half of the semester ends on May 10.
Spring Break is from March 1 through March 5 this year, so if you want to get out of town for a few days and still have time left over before finals begin (which start April 29), this might be your chance!
The end of classes marks Finals Week/Spring Option (April 29-May 2). Suppose you’re lucky enough not to have final exams this week. In that case, we recommend taking advantage of relaxing activities like visiting museums or even spending time outdoors–you deserve it! Remember that Reading Days are May 5-6, too; these aren’t holidays but days set aside for students who need extra time before final exams begin again on May 7.
Summer Session
Summer Session is a non-traditional term for the academic year. Summer Session is for students who want to take classes during the summer and earn credit.
Students in both Undergraduate and Graduate programs may enrol in Summer Session courses offered at different times throughout May through August. Students should consult their academic advisers before registering for classes during this period, as there may be other restrictions on course selection based on their degree requirements or financial aid eligibility.
Academic Calendar – Columbus Campus
The academic calendar for the Columbus Campus is divided into three sessions: fall semester, spring semester and summer session. Each session lasts approximately 11 weeks (excluding holidays).
The academic year begins with a fall orientation program that includes information about campus life, registration procedures, financial aid, etc. It also includes student orientation activities such as tours of campus facilities and housing options, student organizations presentations, special events such as Homecoming Weekend activities, or an ice cream social at the end of each day’s sessions.
Following this orientation period is the start of classes for both undergraduate and graduate students on Monday, September 10, with classes starting at 8 am EST if you live in Ohio or 1 pm EST if you live out of state, so make sure your schedule reflects those times accordingly!
Academic Calendar – Regional Campuses
Regional Campuses
The academic calendars for Ohio State’s regional campuses are listed below.
Spring Break: April 10 – 14 (Spring Semester)
Summer Session: May 6 – August 11 (Summer Semester)
Winter Break: December 21, through January 1(Winter Semester). Fall Semester Classes Begin: January 2.
Winter Break
The winter break is a time for you to get away from the stress of school and relax. It’s also an excellent opportunity to spend time with friends and family or even travel somewhere new!
The dates of Winter Break are: December 23 through January 1
There will be no classes or exams (except final exams) during this time, so you must plan to take finals during another period in the semester. If this isn’t possible, talk with your professor about alternative arrangements for completing your assignment during the no-class time (for example, turning in an earlier draft). You may also need additional preparation outside of class if you plan on being away from home over break–for example, preparing meals ahead. Hence, they’re ready when needed or stocking up on groceries before heading out on vacation.
