The Arizona State University (ASU) academic calendar is a vital tool for students, faculty, and staff to plan and stay organized throughout the semester. ASU operates on a semester system, with the academic year typically divided into two 15-week semesters: fall and spring. Additionally, there are two 7-week sessions during the summer. Understanding the academic calendar is essential for meeting deadlines, scheduling classes, and planning for breaks and exams.
Key Dates and Deadlines

The ASU academic calendar includes numerous key dates and deadlines that students need to be aware of. These include the first day of classes, last day to add or drop classes, withdrawal deadlines, and final exam schedules. For instance, the fall semester typically begins in late August, with the last day to add or drop classes being around the second week of September. It’s crucial for students to familiarize themselves with these dates to avoid missing important deadlines.
Fall Semester
The fall semester at ASU usually starts in late August and ends in mid-December. This semester includes holidays such as Labor Day and Thanksgiving, with breaks scheduled around these dates. The fall semester is also a time when many students enroll in classes, making it essential to plan ahead and register for courses early to ensure availability.
Event | Date |
---|---|
First Day of Classes | August 22 |
Last Day to Add/Drop Classes | September 5 |
Thanksgiving Break | November 20-26 |
Last Day of Classes | December 9 |
Final Exams | December 12-18 |

Spring Semester

The spring semester at ASU typically begins in mid-January and concludes in early May. This semester includes holidays such as Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Spring Break. Similar to the fall semester, it’s vital for students to plan their course schedule and deadlines carefully to ensure a successful semester.
Summer Sessions
ASU offers two 7-week summer sessions, providing students with the opportunity to take classes during the summer months. These sessions are ideal for students who want to get a head start on their coursework, catch up on credits, or take advantage of smaller class sizes. The summer sessions usually start in mid-May and late June, respectively.
Key Points
- ASU operates on a semester system with fall and spring semesters, and two 7-week summer sessions.
- Understanding the academic calendar is crucial for meeting deadlines and planning for breaks and exams.
- Key dates include the first day of classes, last day to add or drop classes, withdrawal deadlines, and final exam schedules.
- Students should regularly check the ASU website for the most up-to-date information on the academic calendar.
- Planning ahead and registering for courses early is essential to ensure availability.
In conclusion, the Arizona State University academic calendar is a vital resource for students, faculty, and staff. By understanding the key dates, deadlines, and semester schedules, individuals can plan and stay organized throughout the academic year. Whether you're a new student or a returning one, familiarizing yourself with the ASU academic calendar will help you make the most of your time at the university.
How do I access the ASU academic calendar?
+You can access the ASU academic calendar on the university’s website. Simply navigate to the ASU homepage, click on “Academics,” and then select “Academic Calendar” from the dropdown menu.
What are the key dates I should be aware of for the fall semester?
+Some key dates for the fall semester include the first day of classes, last day to add or drop classes, Thanksgiving break, last day of classes, and final exams. You can find the specific dates on the ASU academic calendar.
Can I take classes during the summer?
+Yes, ASU offers two 7-week summer sessions. These sessions provide students with the opportunity to take classes during the summer months, allowing them to get a head start on their coursework, catch up on credits, or take advantage of smaller class sizes.