The University of Melbourne (UniMelb) offers a well-structured academic calendar that includes designated holidays and breaks to ensure students have time to rest, recharge, and prepare for their studies. Knowing these holidays is essential for planning your semester, managing study workloads, and balancing university life with personal commitments. Here’s a detailed overview of the key holidays observed by UniMelb in 2025.
Major University Holidays in 2025
| Date(s) | Holiday/Event | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday 25 December 2024 to Wednesday 1 January 2025 | Christmas Holiday | University closed for the festive season |
| Monday 27 January 2025 | Australia Day Holiday | Observed as Australia Day falls on Sunday 26 Jan |
| Monday 10 March 2025 | Labour Day Holiday | Public holiday during Semester 1 |
| Friday 18 April to Tuesday 22 April 2025 | Easter Holiday | University closed during Easter break |
| Friday 25 April 2025 | ANZAC Day Holiday | National day of remembrance, university closed |
| Monday 9 June 2025 | King’s Birthday Holiday | No exams scheduled on this day |
| Friday 26 September 2025 | AFL Grand Final Eve Holiday (Tentative) | Holiday observed the day before AFL Grand Final (subject to confirmation) |
| Tuesday 4 November 2025 | Melbourne Cup Day Holiday | Public holiday, university closed |
| Thursday 25 December 2025 to Thursday 1 January 2026 | Christmas Holiday | End of year festive break |
Additional Non-Teaching Periods and Breaks
- Easter Non-Teaching Period & UA Common Vacation Week: Friday 18 April to Sunday 27 April 2025
- Semester 2 Non-Teaching Period & UA Common Vacation Week: Monday 29 September to Sunday 5 October 2025
- SWOT Vacations (Study Without Teaching):
- Semester 1: Monday 2 June to Friday 6 June 2025
- Semester 2: Monday 27 October to Friday 31 October 2025
These breaks provide students with valuable time to catch up on studies, revise for exams, or take a well-deserved rest.
Why Are These Holidays Important?
- Rest and Recharge: University life can be demanding, and scheduled holidays allow students to take breaks from academic pressures.
- Planning Travel and Commitments: Knowing official holidays helps students plan trips, family time, or work commitments without conflicting with study obligations.
- Exam Preparation: Non-teaching weeks and SWOT vacations are ideal for focused revision ahead of exams.
- Participation in University Events: Holidays often coincide with important university events such as graduations and orientation weeks.
Tips for Students
- Always check the official University of Melbourne calendar regularly, as some holidays like the AFL Grand Final Eve may be subject to confirmation.
- Use non-teaching periods strategically for study, internships, or rest.
- Plan ahead for accommodation and travel during holiday seasons, as demand can be high.
- Stay informed about any changes or additional holidays announced by the university.
The University of Melbourne’s holiday schedule in 2025 balances academic rigor with essential breaks, supporting student wellbeing and success. By familiarizing yourself with these key dates, you can better manage your time and enjoy a fulfilling university experience.