For students, staff, and prospective applicants, understanding the University of Adelaide’s (UoA) academic calendar is essential to navigate the year smoothly. The academic calendar outlines important dates such as semester start and end times, exam periods, breaks, and key administrative deadlines, helping everyone plan their study and work commitments effectively.
Structure of the Academic Year
The University of Adelaide’s academic year is divided primarily into two main semesters, with additional summer sessions and breaks interspersed throughout the year. The 2025 calendar, approved by the Academic Board, provides a clear week-by-week breakdown of activities and milestones.
- Semester 1: Typically begins in late February and runs through to late June. For 2025, classes start on Monday, 24 February, and conclude on Friday, 27 June.
- Mid-Semester Break: A short break occurs mid-semester, usually around late April, allowing students time to rest and catch up on studies. In 2025, this break is from Monday, 21 April to Friday, 25 April.
- Exams: Semester 1 exams are scheduled soon after classes finish, running from Monday, 30 June to Friday, 4 July.
- Mid-Year Break: Following exams, students enjoy a mid-year recess, from Monday, 7 July to Friday, 25 July.
- Semester 2: Commences in late July and extends until late November. In 2025, Semester 2 classes run from Monday, 28 July to Friday, 28 November.
- Mid-Semester Break: Another short break takes place in early October, from Monday, 6 October to Friday, 10 October.
- Study Week: A dedicated study week before exams occurs from Monday, 1 December to Friday, 5 December.
- Exams: Semester 2 exams are held from Monday, 8 December to Friday, 12 December.
Additional Academic Sessions
The University also offers Summer Semester sessions starting early January, providing opportunities for students to catch up or accelerate their studies. These sessions typically begin in the first week of January and run through February.
Key Dates for Foundation and Degree Transfer Programs
For students enrolled in Foundation Studies or Degree Transfer programs, the calendar includes specific orientation, semester dates, breaks, and exam periods tailored to these pathways. For example, Foundation Studies Standard Semester 1 in 2025 begins with orientation on Monday, 17 February and classes starting on Monday, 24 February.
Important Administrative Dates
- Enrolment and Census Dates: These are critical deadlines for confirming your enrolment and ensuring you are financially liable for your courses.
- Replacement Exams: Scheduled after the main exam periods, these allow students who missed or need to resit exams to complete their assessments.
- Graduation Ceremonies: While the exact dates for 2025 are under review, graduations typically occur shortly after exam periods, celebrating student achievements.
Planning Ahead with the Academic Calendar
Having access to the academic calendar enables students to:
- Organize study schedules and assignment deadlines.
- Plan holidays and personal commitments around breaks.
- Prepare for exam periods with ample time.
- Stay informed about administrative deadlines to avoid penalties.
Where to Find the Calendar
The University of Adelaide publishes the academic calendar online, with downloadable and printable versions available for convenience. It is regularly updated to reflect any changes, so students are encouraged to check the official website frequently.
The University of Adelaide’s academic calendar provides a comprehensive roadmap for the academic year, detailing semester dates, breaks, exams, and key administrative deadlines. By familiarizing themselves with this schedule, students can better manage their studies and make the most of their university experience in Australia