UCSD Spring Break 2026 is from Saturday, March 21, 2026, to Sunday, March 29, 2026. UC San Diego (UCSD) operates on a quarter system, which means it doesn’t follow a traditional spring break like semester-based schools.
Instead, students enjoy breaks between academic terms and designated holidays.
For 2026, the 9-day gap between Winter and Spring Quarters offer opportunities to recharge.
This guide explains UCSD’s Spring Quarter schedule, key closures, and how to maximize downtime.
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Key Dates for UCSD Spring Break 2026
While UCSD doesn’t have a formal “spring break,” students often use the transition period between Winter and Spring Quarters as an unofficial break. Here are the critical dates:
- Winter Quarter Ends on Saturday, March 21, 2026 (last day of finals).
- Spring 2026 Quarter Begins on Wednesday, March 25, 2026 (offices reopen). The First Day of Classes is Monday, March 30, 2026.
- César Chávez Day is Friday, March 27, 2026. Campus closes. There are no classes or administrative services.
- De Facto Break: Saturday, March 21, 2026 – Sunday, March 29, 2026 (9 days).
Most students use this gap to travel, relax, or catch up on assignments.
Campus services like libraries and dining halls operate on limited schedules, but residence halls remain open.
How to Plan Downtime in Spring Quarter
1. Use the Winter-Spring Gap (March 21–29)
- Travel: Book trips early—this period overlaps with K-12 spring breaks, so flights may fill quickly.
- Stay Local: Explore San Diego attractions like Balboa Park or La Jolla Cove.
- Academic Prep: Review syllabi early to manage coursework once classes resume.
2. Leverage Memorial Day Weekend
- Short Trips: Visit nearby destinations like Joshua Tree or Big Bear Lake.
- Campus Events: Attend UCSD’s annual Sun God Festival (typically in May).
3. Check Campus Services
- Dining: HDH dining halls reduce hours during closures. Download the UCSD Dining app for updates.
- Transportation: Free UCSD shuttles and MTS buses run on holiday schedules.
FAQs About UCSD Spring Break 2026
Does UCSD have a spring break?
No. UCSD’s quarter system skips a traditional mid-semester spring break. Instead, students use the 9-day gap between Winter and Spring Quarters (March 21–29, 2026) and holidays for downtime.
Can I stay in my dorm during breaks?
Yes. Residence halls stay open year-round except during Winter Break (December 24–25, 2025). Confirm move-in/move-out rules with your housing community.
Are classes held on César Chávez Day?
No. Campus closes Friday, March 27, 2026. Classes resume Monday, March 30.
Is the campus open during the Winter-Spring gap?
Offices reopen March 25, but most students aren’t required on campus until classes start March 30. Libraries and dining halls operate with reduced hours.
What’s the best way to track schedule changes?
Bookmark the UCSD Academic Calendar and enable HDH alerts for housing/dining updates.
UCSD Spring Break 2026 Useful Resources
- UCSD Academic Calendar 2025–2026: Verify all dates and deadlines.
- HDH Housing Alerts: Real-time updates on dining, dorms, and closures.
- UCSD Transportation Services: Holiday shuttle schedules.
Though UCSD lacks a traditional spring break, strategic planning around the March 21–29 gap.
Use holidays for short getaways, and always cross-reference the academic calendar for updates. For more on campus closures, explore our UCSD Holiday Schedule 2025–2026 Guide.
