UCLA spring break 2026 is from Saturday, March 21, 2026, to Sunday, March 29, 2026. Unlike semester-based universities, it is the inter-quarter period between the winter quarter end and the Spring quarter instruction beginning.
UCLA spring break isn’t officially designated on the UCLA academic calendar, but refers to the inter-quarter break between winter and spring quarters.
This break period provides students with time off between the end of winter quarter finals and the beginning of spring quarter instruction.
Unlike semester-based universities with a traditional week-long spring break, UCLA’s quarter system creates this natural pause through the scheduling gap between quarters.
Students use this time to rest, travel, catch up on personal matters, or prepare for the upcoming spring quarter.
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UCLA Spring Break Dates 2026
Based on the official UCLA academic calendar:
- Winter Quarter 2026 ends: Friday, March 20 (after final examinations conclude)
- Break Period: Saturday, March 21 through Sunday, March 29, 2026.
- Spring Quarter 2026 begins: Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
- César Chávez Holiday: Friday, March 27, 2026 (university holiday, according to the UCLA Holiday Calendar).
- Spring Quarter instruction begins: Monday, March 30, 2026.
This nine-day break includes a full weekend before spring quarter officially begins, plus the César Chávez holiday during the first week of the new quarter.
Many students treat this entire period as their spring break, especially since instruction doesn’t resume until March 30.
UCLA Campus During Spring Break 2026
Many students wonder: Is the UCLA campus open during spring break? Yes, UCLA remains operational during the break week, though with modified services:
What’s Available:
- Residence halls remain open for UCLA students
- Libraries operate with reduced hours but stay accessible
- Some dining locations maintain service with limited menus
- Recreation centers continue with modified UCLA campus spring break schedules
What to Plan For:
- Reduced campus support staff availability
- Limited dining options – consider meal planning or grocery shopping
- Modified public transportation schedules around campus
- Potential maintenance work in some campus facilities
UCLA Spring Break 2026 Travel Tips
UCLA’s prime Los Angeles location provides excellent access to diverse travel opportunities during the break week:
Popular Destinations for UCLA Spring Break Travel:
- Local beaches: Santa Monica, Venice, and Malibu for sun and surf
- Road trips: San Diego (3 hours), Lake Tahoe (6 hours), or San Francisco Bay Area (6 hours)
- Quick flights: Las Vegas, Phoenix, or Portland for weekend getaways
UCLA Travel Tips Spring Break Planning:
- Book transportation and accommodations early, as spring break demand drives up prices
- Consider travel insurance, especially for international students planning longer trips
- Take advantage of student discounts through services like StudentUniverse
- Use your TAP card for local LA Metro transportation to airports and attractions
- Check the UCLA spring break travel tips resources through student services
Staying Local: UCLA Campus Break Activities
For students choosing to remain in LA during their UCLA study break, the city offers countless opportunities:
Campus and Community Activities:
- UCLA departments often organize study sessions, movie nights, and wellness activities
- Explore LA’s free attractions: Griffith Observatory, Getty Center, or beach communities
- Take advantage of student discounts at museums, restaurants, and entertainment venues
- Use campus resources and apps for UCLA break week events and activities
Budget-Friendly Spring Break Ideas:
- Day trips to nearby hiking trails like Runyon Canyon or Malibu Creek State Park
- Explore different LA neighborhoods via Metro
- Attend free concerts, festivals, or cultural events happening around the city
- Participate in UCLA campus spring break programming
UCLA Spring Break 2026 FAQs
When is UCLA spring break exactly?
UCLA’s spring break is the inter-quarter period from March 21-29, 2026, between winter quarter end and spring quarter instruction beginning.
Is there an official UCLA spring break schedule?
No official “spring break” exists on UCLA’s calendar. The break is the natural gap between quarter endings and beginnings, enhanced by the César Chávez holiday.
How does UCLA spring break housing work?
Residence halls remain open throughout the inter-quarter break and into spring quarter. Students don’t need to vacate their rooms.
What about the UCLA campus spring break services?
Campus services are limited during March 21-24, then gradually resume as spring quarter begins March 25, with normal operations by March 30, 2026.
Making the Most of Your UCLA Spring Break 2026
Whether you choose to travel or enjoy a staycation, the key to a successful UCLA spring break lies in early planning and understanding how the break fits within your spring quarter break timeline.
This study break serves as a crucial midpoint in the quarter, offering time to recharge before final projects and exams.
For the most current information about UCLA spring break dates 2026, campus operations, and UCLA travel tips, spring break resources, always consult the official UCLA academic calendar spring section and departmental announcements.
Remember to download the UCLA spring break calendar information to stay organized and make the most of your break week.
