The University of Dayton structures its year around two primary semesters—Fall and Spring—each beginning in late August or early September and concluding in early December or late April, respectively. Between these terms the school inserts a Thanksgiving break, a winter holiday pause, and a brief spring recess, all clearly marked on the calendar to help students manage study time and personal travel.
A distinctive feature is the optional Summer Immersion period, a six‑week intensive term that offers accelerated courses, internships, and study‑abroad experiences. This term runs from early May to mid‑June, allowing students to earn credits or explore experiential learning without extending the traditional academic year.