Jan 16 2009
Academic Calender
The academic year in
the United States generally lasts nine months, from late August or
early September until the middle or end of May, and it may be divided
into two, three, or four academic terms depending on the institution.
If the year is divided into two terms, these are called the fall and
spring terms, or “semesters.” Short breaks occur during both fall and
spring terms, between terms, and on public holidays. An optional summer
term is often available and provides the opportunity to continue
courses if you wish to accelerate your program.
It is best to start a
program in the fall term (beginning in August/September). Many courses
must be taken in sequence, and time may be lost in completing the
degree if you start in another term. It is also easier to become
accustomed to studying in the United States and to meet other students
in the department if you start at the beginning of the academic year.
Lastly, scholarship opportunities may be more readily available to
students starting in the fall rather than midyear.
