The first day of the fall 2025 semester classes for most U.S. colleges is Monday, August 25, 2025. The 1st day of the fall semester varies by institution: semester-system schools begin August 18-27, while quarter-system universities start in late September.
Find the first day of fall for your school below.
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The First Day of Fall 2025
The first day of fall 2025 has two different meanings for college students:
1st Day of Fall (Astronomical)
- Date: Sunday, September 22, 2025
- Time: 2:19 AM EDT (autumnal equinox)
- Significance: Official start of the autumn season
First Day of Fall Semester (Academic)
- Most Common Date: Monday, August 25, 2025
- Date Range: August 18-27, 2025 (semester schools)
- Quarter Schools: Late September 2025
- Significance: Beginning of college classes and academic year
When students search for “first day of fall,” they typically mean the academic start date, not the astronomical beginning of autumn. This guide focuses on the 1st day of fall classes at U.S. colleges and universities.
Check out the First Day of Spring Semester 2026.
First Day of Fall 2025 by State and Region
The 1st day of fall varies significantly across different regions. Here’s when the first day of the fall semester begins in major states:
| Region | State | University | First Day of Fall 2025 Semester |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeast | Massachusetts | MIT | September 3, 2025 |
| Harvard University (FAS) | September 2, 2025 | ||
| New York | Cornell University | August 25, 2025 | |
| Columbia University | September 2, 2025 | ||
| Pennsylvania | Penn State University (Univ. Park) | August 25, 2025 | |
| University of Pennsylvania | August 26, 2025 | ||
| Southeast | Florida | Florida State University | August 25, 2025 |
| University of Florida | August 21, 2025 | ||
| Georgia | University of Georgia | August 14, 2025 | |
| Georgia Tech | August 18, 2025 | ||
| North Carolina | University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill | August 18, 2025 | |
| Duke University | August 25, 2025 | ||
| Midwest | Illinois | University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign | August 25, 2025 |
| Case Western Reserve University | August 25, 2025 | ||
| Michigan | University of Michigan (Ann Arbor) | August 25, 2025 | |
| Michigan State University | August 25, 2025 | ||
| Ohio | The Ohio State University | August 26, 2025 | |
| West Coast | California | University of California (quarter system) e.g. UCLA | Late September 2025 (approx. Sept 24)* |
| California State Univ., Long Beach | August 25, 2025 | ||
| Washington | University of Washington (quarter) | Late September 2025 (typical quarter) | |
| Washington State University | August 25, 2025 | ||
| Oregon | University of Oregon (quarter) | September 30, 2025 (quarter start) |
Semester vs Quarter: Understanding the First Day of Fall
Semester System Schools
The majority of U.S. colleges follow the semester system. The first day of the fall semester typically falls between August 12-31, 2025:
| University | First Day of Fall Classes | Move‑In Dates |
|---|---|---|
| Auburn University | Mon, Aug 18, 2025 | Aug 16–17 |
| Florida State University | Mon, Aug 25, 2025 | Aug 23–24 |
| University of Miami | Wed, Aug 27, 2025 | Aug 25–26 |
| UTEP | Mon, Aug 25, 2025 | Aug 23–24 |
| Cornell University | Mon, Aug 25, 2025 | Aug 18–24 |
| University of Florida | Thu, Aug 21, 2025 | Aug 19–20 |
| University of Georgia | Thu, Aug 14, 2025 | Aug 12–13 |
| University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill | Mon, Aug 18, 2025 | Aug 15–17 |
| Duke University | Mon, Aug 25, 2025 | Aug 22–24 |
| The Ohio State University | Tue, Aug 26, 2025 | Aug 23–25 |
| University of Michigan (Ann Arbor) | Tue, Aug 26, 2025 | Aug 24–25 |
| Michigan State University | Wed, Aug 27, 2025 | Aug 25–26 |
| University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign | Mon, Aug 25, 2025 | Aug 22–24 |
| Harvard University (FAS) | Tue, Sep 2, 2025 | Aug 28–31 |
| Princeton University | Wed, Aug 27, 2025 | Aug 25–26 |
| Yale University | Wed, Aug 27, 2025 | Aug 24–26 |
| Stanford University | Mon, Aug 25, 2025 | Aug 22–24 |
| Texas A&M University | Tue, Aug 26, 2025 | Aug 23–25 |
| Vanderbilt University | Tue, Aug 26, 2025 | Aug 23–25 |
| Arizona State University | Mon, Aug 18, 2025 | Aug 16–17 |
Quarter System Schools
Quarter schools have a different first day of fall, typically starting in late September:
Most quarter campuses open in the last week of September
| University | First Day of Fall Quarter 2025 | Quarter Name |
|---|---|---|
| UC San Diego | Thu, Sep 25, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| UC Berkeley | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Semester² |
| UC Davis | Tue, Sep 23, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| UC Irvine | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| UC Los Angeles (UCLA) | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| UC Merced | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| UC Riverside | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| UC Santa Barbara | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| UC Santa Cruz | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| Northwestern University | Wed, Sep 24, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | Wed, Sep 24, 2025 | Fall Term |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Wed, Sep 3, 2025 | Fall Term |
| University of Chicago | Mon, Sep 29, 2025 | Autumn Quarter |
| Simon Fraser University (Canada) | Mon, Sep 8, 2025 | Fall Term |
| University of the Pacific | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| Santa Clara University | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| Drexel University | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| Olin College of Engineering | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Quarter |
| Wellesley College | Mon, Sep 22, 2025 | Fall Semester³ |
² Berkeley operates a hybrid system (“semester” title, but quarter‐length terms).
³ Wellesley’s calendar diverges slightly—strictly a semester, but starts in late Sep for 2025.
Countdown to the First Day of Fall 2025
Days Until the 1st Day of Fall Classes:
- From July 2, 2025: Approximately 54 days until August 25, 2025
- From August 1, 2025: 24 days until the most common start date
- From August 15, 2025: 10 days until the earliest semester starts
Key Preparation Milestones:
- 2 months before: Complete housing applications and course selection
- 1 month before: Finalize textbook purchases and travel arrangements
- 2 weeks before: Attend orientation and complete move-in
- 1 week before: Final preparations and settling into dorms
- The first day of fall: Attend all scheduled classes
What Happens on the First Day of Fall Classes?
Typical First Day of Fall Schedule:
- 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: First morning classes begin
- 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Syllabus reviews and course introductions
- 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch break (dining halls busy)
- 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Afternoon classes and labs
- 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM: Dinner and settling in
- 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Evening orientation activities
What to Expect on the 1st Day of Fall:
- Light coursework: Most professors review syllabi rather than dive into content
- Attendance taking: Professors confirm enrollment and waitlists
- Textbook requirements: Final confirmation of required materials
- Course expectations: Overview of assignments, exams, and grading
- Networking opportunities: Meeting classmates and study partners
College Orientation Week Leading to First Day of Fall
Fall 2025 New Student Orientation typically runs the week before the first day of fall classes.
For example, Cornell’s orientation is August 18-24, 2025, leading up to the first day of the fall semester. Orientation week activities include: Freshman Orientation Before 1st Day of Fall:
- New student check-in: Usually 2-3 days before the first day of fall
- Academic advising sessions: Course selection and registration
- Campus tours and resource fairs: Library, dining, health services
- Social activities: Meet fellow students and campus groups
- Residence hall move-in: Typically, the weekend before the first day of fall classes
Transfer Student Orientation:
- Condensed program: Usually 1-2 days
- Credit transfer verification: Ensuring proper course placement
- Department-specific meetings: Major requirements and advising
Course Registration and Add/Drop Periods
Registration Timeline for Fall 2025:
- Early registration: June-July 2025 (returning students)
- New student registration: During orientation week
- Late registration: First week of classes (with fees)
- Add/drop deadline: Usually the end of the second week
- Withdrawal deadline: Mid-semester (varies by school)
Priority Registration Order:
- Graduate students and seniors
- Juniors and sophomores
- Freshmen and new transfers
- Non-degree seeking students
Fall 2025 Housing and Move-In Information
- Freshmen: 2-3 days before orientation
- Returning students: The Weekend before classes
- Graduate students: Flexible dates in August
- International students: Earlier arrival for additional orientation
Housing Preparation Checklist:
- Submit housing application and preferences
- Complete roommate matching (if applicable)
- Arrange the meal plan selection
- Coordinate with parents/family for move-in help
- Purchase dorm essentials and supplies
Financial Aid and Billing for Fall 2025
Important Financial Deadlines:
- FAFSA completion: 11:59 p.m. Central time (CT) on June 30, 2026.
- Scholarship applications: Varies (December 2025 – February 2026)
- Tuition payment: Usually due 2 weeks before classes
- Refund deadlines: Align with add/drop periods
Financial Aid Disbursement:
- Federal aid: Typically, 10 days before classes
- State grants: Varies by state program
- Institutional aid: Usually with tuition billing
- Work-study: Begins after classes start
When to Apply for Fall 2025 Admission
Application Deadlines (Most Have Passed):
- Early Decision: November 1-15, 2024
- Early Action: November 1-30, 2024
- Regular Decision: January 1-15, 2025
- Rolling Admissions: Some schools accept through summer 2025
- Community Colleges: Open enrollment through August 2025
If You Missed Fall 2025 Deadlines:
- Apply for the Spring 2026 semester
- Consider gap year programs
- Explore community college transfer pathways
- Look into schools with rolling admissions
Important Dates During Fall 2025 Semester
Key Academic Milestones:
- Classes begin: August 18-27, 2025 (varies by school)
- Add/drop deadline: Early September 2025
- Midterm exams: October 2025
- Registration for Spring 2026: November 2025
- Thanksgiving break: November 27-December 1, 2025
- Final exams: December 10-17, 2025
- Semester ends: December 12-19, 2025
College Break Schedule for Fall 2025
Major Breaks and Holidays:
- Labor Day: September 1, 2025 (classes may be cancelled)
- Columbus Day: October 13, 2025 (varies by institution)
- Thanksgiving Break: November 27-30, 2025
- Reading Days: December 2025 (before final exams)
- Winter Break: December 20, 2025 – January 13, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions About Fall Start Date 2025
When is the first day of fall 2025?
Astronomically, fall begins on September 22, 2025. Academically, the first day of the fall semester is typically August 25, 2025, for most U.S. colleges.
What is the 1st day of fall classes in 2025?
The 1st day of fall classes varies by institution, but most commonly falls on Monday, August 25, 2025, for semester schools and late September for quarter schools.
Is the first day of fall the same for all colleges?
No, the first day of fall varies significantly. Semester schools start in late August, quarter schools in late September, and specific dates depend on each university’s academic calendar.
How do I prepare for the first day of the fall semester?
Prepare by completing course registration, purchasing textbooks, attending orientation, moving into housing, and reviewing your class schedule. Arrive on campus 2-3 days before the 1st day of fall classes.
What should I bring on the first day of fall?
Bring notebooks, pens, your student ID, class schedule, laptop/tablet, water bottle, and any required textbooks. Dress comfortably as you’ll be walking between classes.
Can I still register for classes on the first day of fall?
Late registration is possible but usually requires additional fees. Contact your registrar immediately if you need to add classes on or after the first day of the fall semester.
When does fall 2025 officially begin?
Astronomical fall begins September 22, 2025, but academic fall semesters start in late August.
What’s the difference between move-in day and the first day of classes?
Move-in day is typically 2-3 days before classes start, allowing time for orientation and settling in.
When do college applications open for fall 2026?
Applications for fall 2026 typically open August 1, 2025, with early deadlines in November 2025.
Is orientation mandatory for fall 2025?
Yes, most universities require orientation for all new students, with failure to register resulting in holds preventing course registration.
When does course registration open for fall 2025?
Registration typically opens in June-July 2025 for returning students, with new students registering during orientation.
What happens if I miss the first day of classes?
Contact your professors immediately; some may drop you for non-attendance, while others allow a grace period.
Are fall 2025 classes online or in-person?
Most universities have returned to primarily in-person instruction, with some hybrid options available.
When do residence halls open for fall 2025?
Residence halls typically open the weekend before classes, with specific move-in time slots assigned.
What’s the last day to withdraw from fall 2025 classes?
Withdrawal deadlines vary but typically fall around mid-October to early November 2025.
When does the fall 2025 semester end?
Most fall semesters end in mid-December 2025, with final exams concluding by December 17-19.
Planning Your Fall 2025 Academic Success
First Week Priorities:
- Attend all classes and introduce yourself to professors
- Purchase any remaining textbooks and supplies
- Set up study spaces in dorms and the library
- Join relevant academic and social clubs
- Establish routines for meals, exercise, and study
Time Management Tips:
- Use digital calendars to track assignments and exams
- Create weekly study schedules
- Take advantage of campus tutoring resources
- Form study groups with classmates
- Attend the professor’s office hours regularly
Graduate School and Professional Program Start Dates
Graduate Programs Fall 2025:
- Medical School: Often starts mid-July to early August
- Law School: Typically begins the last week of August
- MBA Programs: May have multiple start dates
- PhD Programs: Usually align with the undergraduate calendar
- Education Programs: Often begin before K-12 schools
International Student Considerations
Additional Requirements for Fall 2025:
- Visa processing: Allow 2-3 months for an F-1 student visa
- International orientation: Usually 1 week before regular orientation
- Housing priority: International students often get early housing assignments
- Health insurance: Must be arranged before enrollment
- Bank accounts: Set up upon arrival in the U.S.
Transfer Student Timeline for Fall 2025
Transfer-Specific Deadlines:
- Credit evaluation: Complete by June 2025
- Transfer orientation: Typically 1-2 days before classes
- Housing applications: Priority given to new transfers
- Academic advising: Focused on degree completion requirements
- Club and organization involvement: Encouraged to integrate quickly
Community College Fall 2025 Information
Community College Differences:
- Rolling admissions: Many accept applications through August
- Flexible start dates: Some offer late-start classes
- Open enrollment: Less competitive admission process
- Lower costs: Significant savings on tuition and fees
- Transfer pathways: Clear routes to four-year universities
Key Takeaways for the First Day of Fall 2025
- Most common first day of fall: Monday, August 25, 2025
- 1st day of fall range: August 18-27 for semester schools
- Quarter school start: Late September (September 22-30, 2025)
- Astronomical first day of fall: September 22, 2025, at 2:19 AM EDT
- Preparation timeline: Begin 2 months before the first day of fall classes
- Orientation timing: Usually 3-7 days before 1st day of the fall semester
- Academic vs seasonal: College “first day of fall” differs from seasonal fall beginning
