Academic term

Academic term or academic semester is a division of an academic year, the time during which an educational institution holds classes. The schedules adopted vary widely.

Overview

In most countries, the academic term is an integral part of the educational system. The length of an academic term can vary, but it typically lasts a few months. The academic year is divided into terms such as semesters, trimesters, or quarters, depending on the institution and the country.

Semesters

A semester system divides the academic year into two terms of equal length. In a traditional semester system, the academic year is divided into a fall semester and a spring semester, each approximately 15 weeks long. Some institutions also offer a shorter summer semester.

Trimesters

A trimester system divides the academic year into three terms of approximately 12 weeks each. This system is less common than the semester system, but is used by some institutions, particularly in Australia and New Zealand.

Quarters

A quarter system divides the academic year into four terms of approximately 10 weeks each. This system is common in many U.S. institutions, particularly public universities in the West.

Other systems

Other systems include the term system, with three terms of equal length, and the hexamester system, with six terms of equal length. The choice of system can depend on a variety of factors, including tradition, pedagogical philosophy, and the need to coordinate with other institutions.

See also

• Academic year
• School term
• Semester
• Trimester
• Quarter (education)