Florida State University (FSU) is a public research university located in Tallahassee, Florida. As one of the largest and most prestigious institutions in the state, FSU offers a wide range of academic programs, research opportunities, and extracurricular activities to its students. The university's calendar is filled with important dates and events that are crucial for students, faculty, and staff to stay on track. In this article, we will delve into the key dates and events that make up the FSU university calendar, providing a comprehensive overview of the academic year.
Key Points
- FSU's academic year typically starts in late August and ends in early May
- The university offers various semester and session options, including fall, spring, and summer terms
- Important dates include the start and end of classes, add/drop deadlines, and exam periods
- FSU also offers a range of online and distance learning programs, with flexible start dates and schedules
- The university's calendar is subject to change, and students are encouraged to check the official FSU website for updates and notifications
Academic Calendar Overview

The FSU academic calendar is designed to provide students with a clear and structured schedule for the academic year. The calendar is typically divided into three semesters: fall, spring, and summer. Each semester has its own set of important dates and deadlines, including the start and end of classes, add/drop deadlines, and exam periods. Students can choose from a range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as online and distance learning options.
Fall Semester
The fall semester at FSU typically starts in late August and ends in mid-December. The semester is 16 weeks long, with classes starting on a Monday and ending on a Friday. Important dates for the fall semester include:
- August 24: Classes begin
- August 28: Add/drop deadline
- September 7: Labor Day (no classes)
- November 11: Veterans Day (no classes)
- November 25-27: Thanksgiving break (no classes)
- December 11: Last day of classes
- December 14-18: Final exams
Spring Semester
The spring semester at FSU typically starts in early January and ends in early May. The semester is also 16 weeks long, with classes starting on a Monday and ending on a Friday. Important dates for the spring semester include:
- January 4: Classes begin
- January 8: Add/drop deadline
- January 18: Martin Luther King Jr. Day (no classes)
- March 14-20: Spring break (no classes)
- April 15: Last day to withdraw from classes
- April 29: Last day of classes
- May 3-7: Final exams
Summer Semester
The summer semester at FSU is divided into two sessions: summer A and summer B. Summer A typically starts in early May and ends in late June, while summer B starts in late June and ends in early August. Important dates for the summer semester include:
- May 10: Summer A classes begin
- May 14: Add/drop deadline for summer A
- June 18: Last day of summer A classes
- June 21-25: Final exams for summer A
- June 28: Summer B classes begin
- July 2: Add/drop deadline for summer B
- August 6: Last day of summer B classes
- August 9-13: Final exams for summer B
Semester | Start Date | End Date |
---|---|---|
Fall | August 24 | December 11 |
Spring | January 4 | April 29 |
Summer A | May 10 | June 18 |
Summer B | June 28 | August 6 |

Online and Distance Learning Options

FSU offers a range of online and distance learning programs, providing students with flexible and convenient options for pursuing their academic goals. These programs include undergraduate and graduate degree programs, as well as certificate and professional development courses. Online and distance learning students can choose from a variety of start dates and schedules, including:
- Traditional semester-based programs
- Accelerated programs with shorter semester lengths
- Self-paced programs with flexible start dates
- Hybrid programs that combine online and on-campus instruction
Technical Specifications
FSU’s online and distance learning programs are designed to provide students with a high-quality learning experience, regardless of their location or schedule. Technical specifications for online and distance learning programs include:
- Access to online course materials and resources
- Live and recorded lectures and discussions
- Interactive online activities and assessments
- Technical support and assistance
What is the start date for the fall semester at FSU?
+The start date for the fall semester at FSU is typically in late August.
How long is the spring semester at FSU?
+The spring semester at FSU is 16 weeks long, starting in early January and ending in early May.
What are the add/drop deadlines for the summer semester at FSU?
+The add/drop deadlines for the summer semester at FSU vary depending on the session. For summer A, the add/drop deadline is typically in mid-May, while for summer B, the add/drop deadline is typically in late June.
In conclusion, the FSU university calendar is a comprehensive and structured schedule that provides students with a clear and organized framework for the academic year. With a range of semester and session options, including online and distance learning programs, FSU offers students the flexibility and convenience they need to succeed. By staying informed and up-to-date on important dates and deadlines, students can make the most of their academic experience at FSU.