Academic Year Definition

The Academic Year is defined as the period of instructional time during which a student is expected to complete a defined minimum number of credit hours, consistent with federal regulations, accreditation standards, and institutional requirements.

Academic Year 2027-2028 and Beyond

Drexel University defines the Academic Year as two primary semesters, fall and spring, with a minimum of 30 weeks of instructional time, including reading days and final exams. Summer session options, including both full and accelerated sessions, are offered but are not required for completion of a standard Academic Year unless otherwise determined by program and co-op schedule.

Academic Year 2026-2027 and Before

The majority of academic programs operate on the University's quarter system. The Kline School of Law and College of Medicine provide programs that operate on a unique academic Calendar.

The academic year at Drexel is based on four three-month terms, which run approximately as follows:

Fall term runs from late September to mid-December.
Winter term runs from early January to the end of March.
Spring term runs from early April to mid-June.
Summer term runs from late June to mid-September.

The regular weekly schedule of classes includes Saturday sessions.