Planning your academic journey at Georgia Institute of Technology requires a clear understanding of the academic calendar. This guide breaks down the key dates and deadlines for the 2025-2026 academic year, covering everything from registration periods to final exams and commencement ceremonies. Staying informed about the Georgia Institute of Technology academic calendar helps ensure you don’t miss important steps in your educational path.
Key Takeaways
- The Georgia Institute of Technology academic calendar outlines all significant dates for the 2025-2026 academic year, including enrollment, payment, and academic deadlines.
- Georgia Tech operates on a semester system, with Fall and Spring semesters, plus an Intersession and Summer sessions.
- Key dates for Fall 2025 include registration windows starting in April 2025, classes beginning in August, and final exams in December.
- Spring 2026 dates to note are registration periods starting in November 2025, classes commencing in January, and final exams concluding in early May 2026.
- Pay close attention to deadlines for course withdrawals, grade changes, and graduation applications to remain on track with your academic progress.
Navigating The Georgia Institute Of Technology Academic Calendar
Getting a handle on the academic calendar at Georgia Tech is pretty important if you want to make sure you don’t miss anything. It’s like the roadmap for your entire school year, showing you when classes start, when you can sign up for them, and, of course, when all the breaks are.
Understanding Georgia Tech’s Semester Structure
Georgia Tech operates on a semester system, which is pretty standard. But they also have these extra sessions that can be useful.
- Fall Semester: This usually kicks off in mid-August and wraps up around mid-December. It’s about 15 weeks long when you count the final exam period.
- Intersession: A short, three-week period in early January. It’s good for quick, intensive courses or getting ready for co-op.
- Spring Semester: Starts in mid-January and finishes in early May, also about 15 weeks with finals.
- Summer Semester: This runs from May through July and is split into two seven-week sessions. It’s a good option if you want to get ahead or catch up.
The academic calendar isn’t just about classes; it includes deadlines for everything from applying for graduation to paying tuition. Keeping an eye on it helps you stay organized and avoid last-minute stress.
Key Dates for Fall Semester Planning
When you’re thinking about the fall semester, a few dates really stand out. Registration is a big one. You’ll want to know when the Schedule of Classes becomes available and when your specific registration time ticket is posted. These dates are usually in April. Also, keep an eye on the deadlines for applying for graduation, which are typically in August for undergraduates and graduate students.
Spring Semester Milestones
For the spring semester, similar planning applies. The Schedule of Classes usually appears in October, with registration time tickets following shortly after. The application for graduation for spring often opens in September. Knowing these dates helps you plan your course load and academic progression effectively throughout the year.
Fall Semester 2025 Key Dates
Application and Registration Windows
Getting ready for the Fall 2025 semester involves several important registration periods. It’s a good idea to mark these dates on your calendar to ensure you get the courses you need. Phase I registration is your first opportunity to sign up for classes.
Here’s a breakdown of the key registration timelines:
- Phase I Registration: This window opens on Monday, April 14, 2025, and concludes on Friday, May 16, 2025. Make sure to check your specific time ticket for your enrollment slot.
- OMS Computer Science Registration: For students in the OMSCS program, time tickets will be available starting Thursday, June 5, 2025, with registration running from Monday, June 9, 2025, through Thursday, July 3, 2025.
- Phase II Registration: If you missed Phase I or need to make adjustments, Phase II registration begins Monday, August 11, 2025, and ends Friday, August 22, 2025. This is also the last day to register or drop a course without a "W" grade.
Remember to also keep an eye on deadlines for readmission applications, which vary based on academic standing, with deadlines in early June and July 2025.
Academic Deadlines and Holidays
Beyond just signing up for classes, the Fall 2025 semester has specific academic deadlines and breaks you’ll want to be aware of. These dates help structure your academic progress and provide important pauses throughout the term.
- First Day of Classes: The Fall 2025 semester officially kicks off on Monday, August 18, 2025.
- Labor Day: Classes will not be held on Monday, September 1, 2025, in observance of Labor Day.
- Fall Break: Take a breather during Fall Break, which occurs on Monday, October 6, 2025, and Tuesday, October 7, 2025. While classes are cancelled, the campus remains open.
- Thanksgiving Break: The semester winds down with Thanksgiving Break from Wednesday, November 26, 2025, through Friday, November 28, 2025. No classes will be held during this period.
Pay close attention to the withdrawal deadline on Saturday, October 25, 2025, and the grade mode change deadline on Monday, October 27, 2025, as these mark the final opportunities for certain academic adjustments.
Finals and Commencement
The end of the Fall 2025 semester is marked by final exams and the much-anticipated commencement ceremonies. Planning for these events is key to a smooth conclusion to your academic term.
- Final Instructional Days: The last days of regular classes are Monday, December 1, 2025, and Tuesday, December 2, 2025.
- Reading Period: A period with no exams is scheduled for Wednesday, December 3, 2025, offering time for final review.
- Final Exams: The official final exam period runs from Thursday, December 4, 2025, to Thursday, December 11, 2025.
- Commencement: Graduation ceremonies are scheduled from Thursday, December 11, 2025, to Saturday, December 13, 2025.
The faculty grade submission deadline is Monday, December 15, 2025, with final grades becoming available online after 6:00 PM Eastern Time on Tuesday, December 16, 2025. Degree confirmation follows shortly after.
Spring Semester 2026 Important Dates
Registration and Application Deadlines
Getting ready for the Spring 2026 semester involves a few key dates to keep in mind for registration and applications. Phase I registration kicks off on November 10, 2025, and wraps up on December 12, 2025. Following this, your specific "time ticket" for Phase II registration will be available on December 31, 2025. The absolute last day to register for classes or drop a course without a "W" grade is January 16, 2026, which is also the deadline for submitting your Online Application for Graduation (OAG) if you’re planning to graduate in the spring. If you’re working on a thesis, the enrollment waiver deadline is also January 16, 2026.
Academic Progress and Holidays
The Spring 2026 semester officially begins on January 12, 2026. A crucial period for faculty to verify student attendance runs from January 21 to January 27, 2026. Faculty progress reports are due on March 2, 2026. Remember to mark your calendar for the official institute holidays: New Year’s Day on January 1, 2026, and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on January 19, 2026. Spring Break, a welcome pause in the academic year, is scheduled from March 23 to March 27, 2026.
End of Term and Graduation
As the semester draws to a close, several important deadlines approach. The final day to withdraw from a course with a "W" grade is March 18, 2026, at 4:00 PM ET. On the same day, you must also meet the deadline for changing your grade mode (Letter/Grade to Pass/Fail) or submitting grade substitutions. Master’s and Doctoral thesis forms are due by noon on April 24, 2026. The last instructional days are April 27 and 28, 2026, followed by a reading period on April 29. Final exams will take place from April 30 to May 7, 2026, with the semester officially concluding on May 7, 2026. Commencement ceremonies are scheduled from May 7 to May 9, 2026.
Staying organized with these dates can make a big difference in your academic journey. It’s always a good idea to double-check the official Georgia Tech registrar’s website for any last-minute updates or specific departmental requirements.
Important Deadlines and Academic Milestones
Staying on top of important dates is key to a smooth academic journey at Georgia Tech. This section covers those critical deadlines for withdrawals, grade changes, and graduation applications, helping you manage your academic progress effectively.
Withdrawal and Grade Change Policies
Life happens, and sometimes you need to adjust your course load. Georgia Tech has specific deadlines for withdrawing from courses or changing your grade mode. Missing these dates can impact your academic record.
Here’s a breakdown for the 2025-2026 academic year:
- Fall Semester 2025:
- Last day to withdraw with a "W" grade: Saturday, October 25, 2025, by 4:00 PM ET.
- Last day to change grade mode (Letter/Grade to Pass/Fail or vice versa): Monday, October 27, 2025, by 4:00 PM ET.
- Last day for grade substitution: Monday, October 27, 2025, by 4:00 PM ET.
- Spring Semester 2026:
- Last day to withdraw with a "W" grade: Wednesday, March 18, 2026, by 4:00 PM ET.
- Last day to change grade mode (Letter/Grade to Pass/Fail or vice versa): Wednesday, March 18, 2026, by 4:00 PM ET.
- Last day for grade substitution: Wednesday, March 18, 2026, by 4:00 PM ET.
It’s always a good idea to check with your academic advisor before making any changes to your course registration.
Thesis and Graduation Application Deadlines
For students pursuing graduate degrees or completing their undergraduate studies, submitting thesis documents and applying for graduation are significant milestones. Be sure to note these important dates:
- Fall 2025 Graduation Application (OAG):
- Undergraduate Students: Friday, August 15, 2025.
- Graduate Students: Friday, August 22, 2025.
- Fall 2025 Thesis Deadlines:
- Master’s Thesis Forms Due: Friday, December 5, 2025, by noon ET.
- Doctoral Thesis Forms Due: Friday, December 5, 2025, by noon ET.
- Spring 2026 Graduation Application (OAG):
- All Students: Friday, January 16, 2026.
- Spring 2026 Thesis Deadlines:
- Master’s Thesis Forms Due: Friday, April 24, 2026, by noon ET.
- Doctoral Thesis Forms Due: Friday, April 24, 2026, by noon ET.
Meeting these deadlines is crucial for ensuring your degree is conferred in the expected term.
Final Grade Submission and Availability
Once the semester concludes, faculty have a specific window to submit final grades, and students can access them shortly thereafter. This process marks the official end of the academic term for grading purposes.
- Fall 2025:
- Faculty Grade Submission Deadline: Monday, December 15, 2025, by noon ET.
- Final Grades Available Online: Tuesday, December 16, 2025, after 6:00 PM ET.
- Spring 2026:
- Faculty Grade Submission Deadline: Monday, May 11, 2026, by noon ET.
- Final Grades Available Online: Tuesday, May 12, 2026, after 6:00 PM ET.
Keeping track of these dates helps manage expectations and plan for future academic steps, whether it’s registering for the next semester or celebrating graduation.
Planning Your Academic Year at Georgia Tech
Leveraging the Georgia Tech Academic Calendar
Getting a handle on your academic journey at Georgia Tech means getting familiar with the official academic calendar. It’s more than just a list of dates; it’s your roadmap for the entire year. Think of it as your personal assistant, reminding you about everything from when to register for classes to when you can finally take a break. Knowing these key dates helps you stay organized and avoid missing important deadlines.
Key Registration Periods
Registration is a big deal, and Georgia Tech breaks it down into phases. It’s smart to know when each phase opens and closes so you can get the classes you need. Here’s a look at the main registration windows:
- Fall Semester Registration:
- Phase I: Typically runs from mid-April to mid-May.
- Phase II: Usually takes place in mid-August.
- Spring Semester Registration:
- Phase I: Generally occurs from early November to mid-December.
- Phase II: Often concludes in mid-January.
Keep an eye on your specific time ticket, which tells you exactly when you can start registering. These are usually posted a few days before each phase begins.
Understanding Academic Breaks
Breaks are just as important as class days for maintaining a good balance. Georgia Tech has several official holidays and breaks throughout the year:
- Thanksgiving Break: Usually a few days around late November.
- Winter Break: A longer period between the Fall and Spring semesters, typically starting in mid-December and lasting into January.
- Spring Break: A week-long recess, often in late March.
- Other Holidays: Several single-day holidays are observed, like Labor Day in September and Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in January.
These breaks are great opportunities to rest, catch up, or even get ahead on assignments without the pressure of classes.
Planning ahead is key. By marking down registration periods, academic deadlines, and breaks on your personal calendar, you can set yourself up for a smoother academic experience. It reduces stress and helps you focus on your studies and well-being.
Wrapping Up Your Academic Year Planning
So, that’s a look at the key dates for Georgia Tech in 2026. Keeping track of these deadlines, from when you can register for classes to when your final exams are, really helps make the school year go smoother. It’s easy to miss something, but having this calendar handy should make things a bit more manageable. Remember to check the official registrar’s website for any last-minute changes. Good luck with your studies this year!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main parts of the Georgia Tech school year?
Georgia Tech has a few main parts to its school year. There’s the Fall semester, which usually starts in mid-August and ends in mid-December. Then comes the Intersession in early January for quick, focused classes. After that is the Spring semester, running from mid-January to early May. Finally, there are Summer semesters, which offer shorter sessions for classes.
When can I sign up for classes?
You can sign up for classes during specific times called registration windows. For the Fall semester, the first big chance to sign up is in April, and a second chance happens in August. For the Spring semester, you can register in November and again in January. It’s important to check the exact dates for these windows each year.
What’s the difference between dropping a class and withdrawing?
Dropping a class usually means you remove it from your schedule before the semester really gets going, and it typically doesn’t show up on your record. Withdrawing, however, happens later in the semester. If you withdraw, the class will likely show up on your transcript with a ‘W’ grade, meaning you left the course after the add/drop period but before the end of the term.
When do I need to apply for graduation?
You need to officially apply to graduate using the Online Application for Graduation (OAG). For Fall graduation, the application usually opens in January. If you plan to graduate in the Spring, you should apply starting in September. There are also deadlines for these applications, so make sure to note them down.
Are there breaks during the school year?
Yes, Georgia Tech has several breaks. There’s a Thanksgiving break in late November, a winter break between the Fall and Spring semesters, and a Spring Break in March. These are good times to relax and recharge.
Where can I find the exact dates for everything?
The best place to find all the specific dates and deadlines is the official Georgia Institute of Technology Academic Calendar. You can usually find this on the university’s registrar website. It’s updated yearly, so always refer to the most current version for the 2025-2026 academic year.
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