Office of the Provost

Semester Calendar Starts August 2027—Here's the Plan

October 28, 2025

This message was shared with undergraduate students.

Summary

This message provides an overview of the new semester calendar that Drexel will adopt in August 2027. Keep reading for 2027-2028 calendar dates, sample undergraduate semester schedules, an overview of how the calendar transition will occur, links to FAQs and more!

 

Dear Drexel Students,

Whether you're just beginning your Drexel journey or well on your way toward graduation, you are part of a University undergoing an exciting transformation. In August 2027, Drexel will shift from a quarter to a semester calendar — a change designed to enhance your student experience.

This change will reshape the rhythm of the academic year, expand opportunities and provide more flexibility to plan co-op and global experiences, with a calendar that aligns with more institutions nationwide.

Most importantly, we're committed to helping you achieve your academic goals as you experience the exciting transformation at Drexel, providing personalized support and clear communication so you stay on track toward completing your degree.

Below is a summary of the key features, transition timeline, and what you can expect.

What's Changing with the Move to Semesters in August 2027

  • Fall & Spring Semesters: 14 weeks of instruction plus 1 week of final exams.
  • Reading Days: Two no-class days before exams to give you time to prepare.
  • Fall Break: A new five-day break in mid-semester, in addition to the Wednesday–Friday Thanksgiving break.
  • Spring Break: A five-day break in mid-semester.
  • Election Day: Recognized as a no-class day.
  • Summer Term: Redesigned to offer full-term (12 weeks of instruction, plus 1 week for finals) and part-term (6 weeks) courses, experiential learning opportunities, and/or a summer break. Some academic plans may require one summer of coursework; for most others, summer will be optional.

The semester calendar is designed to give you:

  • Deeper learning experiences in longer academic terms.
  • More flexibility and expanded experiential opportunities.
  • Stronger alignment with other institutions, making collaborations and partnerships easier.

You can view a preview of the 2027–2028 Academic Semester Calendar for exact dates, as well as sample undergraduate semester schedules on the Provost's Office website. The 2027-2028 calendar will be officially posted soon.

For Students Experiencing this Transition

While students may be affected in different ways by the transition, depending on their academic year, we want to assure you of the following:

  • Your graduation plans remain secure: As long as you continue to make satisfactory progress in your current degree program, the transition to semesters, by itself, will not extend the time needed to complete your degree.
  • Personalized guidance: Your advisor will work with you one-on-one to map your program in the semester calendar.
  • Flexibility in co-op and academics: Co-op will remain six months after the transition, and new structures will give you more options for how to combine coursework with experiential learning. The six-month co-ops will be available twice a year — during Spring/Summer 1 and Summer 2/Fall semesters, and you will be assigned a co-op cycle that fits with your plan of study.
  • Tuition and aid remain stable: As long as you continue to make satisfactory progress in your current degree program, the transition to semesters, by itself, will not increase the total cost of your program. Billing, financial aid, and scholarships will be adjusted to reflect the semester calendar, with careful attention to continuity and transparency.

How the Transition Will Happen

  • Fall 2025: Faculty have begun redesigning programs and courses.
  • Summer 2026 onward: Advisors will work with you to plan your academic path on the semester calendar.
  • Summer 2026-2027: A one-time transition term will align quarter-based programs with the new semester calendar, structured to minimize disruption and help you maintain progress toward your degree. Details will continue to be shared as they are finalized.
  • August 23, 2027: Semester calendar officially begins.

Support Every Step of the Way

We know that change can bring questions, and we’re here to support you.

  • Your academic advisor should be your first point of contact for guidance and planning.
  • Information for students is available on the Provost's website, including frequently asked questions (FAQs), and will continue to be updated.
  • Ask a Question: You may also submit questions directly to the Academic Transformation Team in the Provost’s Office using the Academic Transformation Question Form.

We’re grateful to have you with us during this pivotal time in Drexel’s history. We are confident this transition will make your Drexel academic experience even stronger. The success of every student is our top priority, and we're excited you will be part of shaping what comes next.

Sincerely,

Paul E. Jensen, PhD
Executive Vice President
Nina Henderson Provost