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It is often difficult for an International student to get accustomed to the timelines in the American Universities they enrol in. The academic calendars in most of the universities are similar and have the following structure:

The yearly academic schedule commences in late August and goes on till early May in most of the American schools. Universities and colleges are filled with students coming from other countries in the month of September.

Students are completely occupied in autumn season with various activities including:

•    Getting accustomed to the new campus
•    Enjoying various sporting events such as soccer and American football
•    Joining various student groups
•    Buying materials required for the course including books
•    Identifying and fixing accommodation
•    Scheduling class timings

Fall is the time when events and annual groups convene on all university and college campuses in America. This is the season when students are excited as they start their year fresh and the entire campus is lively and colourful, brimming with enthusiasm. 

Fall is also that time of the year when a lot of interesting events are organized by universities to enable International students to meet US students. Events such as ‘mixers’ and ‘International Nights’ help students get used to their fellow college mates. They are provided an ideal setting of fun and celebration to mingle with other students and get accustomed to their surroundings.

Length of a usual session at the universities and colleges is six months which is referred to as a ‘semester’. A semester approximately works out to around 15 weeks. Every year is divided into two semesters namely the spring semester and the fall semester. Progress of students is monitored with the help of grades posted by teachers usually just after the mid-term.

In certain universities the forty week year is split into four sessions. Here, mid-term grades are offered in quarters and every student attends at least three out of the four quarters.

A system where 52 weeks in a year is divided into three blocks with each session containing ten weeks is known as a ‘trimester’. This system however is not as popular as the semester system.
It is possible for students to complete their degree in most of the American Universities and colleges faster by opting to do certain courses during breaks or during their summer vacation.

Students can also complete courses they are unable to during the course of their regular term. Graduating students attend commencement ceremonies in the months of December and May.
American colleges and universities have their breaks from the middle of December to beginning of January which is their winter season and during spring which is just for a week either during the end of March or beginning of April. Fall break is limited to just two to three day break during the month of October.

During breaks, students enjoy travelling to other destinations and enjoy their holidays with friends and family. As campuses usually close during breaks, International students are required to make alternate lodging arrangements if they do not plan on going home.