As you prepare to join the UM community this fall, here's your essential timeline of key academic dates. These have been verified using the official Regents' Revised Academic Calendar for Fall Term 2025 and the Registrar's Office's calendar overview.
🗓️ Key Fall 2025 Dates
| Event | Date (Day) |
|---|---|
| Orientation Week | August 18–22, Monday to Friday |
| First day of classes | August 25, Monday |
| Labor Day (no classes) | September 1, Monday |
| Drop/Add registration deadline | September 2, Tuesday |
| Fall Break / Study Break | October 13–14, Monday–Tuesday |
| Classes resume after break | October 15, Wednesday |
| Election Day (no classes) | November 4, Tuesday |
| Thanksgiving Recess (no classes) | November 26–28, Wednesday–Friday |
| Classes resume after Thanksgiving | December 1, Monday |
| Last day of classes | December 8, Monday |
| Study Days (no classes/exams prep) | December 9 (Tuesday) and Dec 13–14 (Saturday–Sunday) |
| Final Exam Period | December 10–12 (Wed–Fri), December 15–17 (Mon–Wed) |
| Commencement Ceremony | December 14, Sunday |
| Fall Term Ends | December 17, Wednesday |
These dates outline the academic rhythm you can expect during your first semester at UM. Below, find some helpful tips and reminders to stay on track.
✅ Tips & Student-Friendly Insights
🔖 Stay Organized from Day One
Mark all major dates in your calendar now—especially holidays, study days, and exam periods.
Many courses begin important assignments early; checking the drop/add deadline (Sept. 2) is key if you change your schedule after the semester starts.
🏫 Orientation & Academic Prep
Orientation (Aug 18–22) includes welcome events, campus tours, advising sessions, and registration help. Attend as many as possible—it sets you up for success.
🧘♀️ Recharge During Breaks
Fall Break (Oct 13–14) and Thanksgiving (Nov 26–28) are built-in pauses to catch up on rest, study, or explore Ann Arbor (or go home if you're local).
📚 Finals & Exams
Class ends on Dec 8, followed by study days Dec 9, 13–14, then final exams from Dec 10–12 and Dec 15–17.
December 14 is the official commencement ceremony, held between exam blocks—plan accordingly if your finals fall around that date.
🎓 Commencement Doesn't End the Term
Commencement happens on Sunday, Dec 14, but the term technically ends Wednesday, Dec 17. Grades are posted later in mid-January on a rolling basis.
✨ Why These Dates Matter
Orientation Week (Aug 18–22) helps you transition into university life: explore resources, meet peers, confirm your schedule, and ask your advisor questions early.
Holiday breaks and study days aren't just pauses—they're built for reflection, catch-up, and self-care.
Finals are spread out to give you time to prepare both mentally and academically—no cramming back‑to‑back exams unless absolutely necessary.
🧠 Mindset & Housing Reminder for Pappas Rentals Residents
Moving in with Pappas Rentals and living in Ann Arbor is more than just a new address—it's a supportive community and a launching point for your journey at UM. Posting these dates near your fridge, door, or favorite wall spot keeps your semester visible. Need help syncing events to your shared Google Calendar or getting roommate reminders? Reach out—we're here to help that transition go smoothly.
🗂️ Quick Reference — Fall 2025 at a Glance
- Aug 25: Classes start
- Sept 1: Labor Day (no classes)
- Oct 13–14: Fall Break
- Nov 26–28: Thanksgiving Break
- Dec 8: Last day of classes
- Dec 10–17: Exams
- Dec 14: Commencement
- Dec 17: Term ends
💬 Need Help?
If you're in a professional school (e.g. Law, Business, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Social Work, etc.)—your academic calendar may start or end differently. Contact your school directly or check their specific academic calendar.
Let me know if you'd like this article converted into a downloadable or printable calendar PDF, or embedded into your Pappas Rentals student portal. I'm happy to help integrate this into a welcome packet or interactive student guide too!