For most colleges and universities, the academic year begins in late
August or early September and ends in May or June. The "semester"
system divides the academic year into two equal terms of
approximately 16 weeks each. For schools on a "quarter" system, the
academic year is divided into three equal terms of approximately 11
weeks each. Usually, there is also a fourth summer quarter. The
"trimester" system has equal terms of approximately 16 weeks each,
including a summer term.
Most students take the summer off, and international students are
generally not required to study during the summer. Some students,
however, choose to go to summer school and earn credits, which may
help them complete their degree work more quickly than is normally
required. |
