Last Updated on October 14, 2024 by Iain
Oxford University Term Dates
Michaelmas Term 2024 Started On Sunday 13th October
Finishes on Saturday 7th December.
Academic year 2024-2025 up to 2031
2024:
- Michaelmas Term Sunday 13 October to Saturday 7 December
NB There are three full terms of 8 weeks each.
Full terms start on a Sunday and end on a Saturday.
Dates of Full Term up to 2031:
| Year | Term | From | To |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-25 | Michaelmas 2024 | Sunday 13 October | Saturday 7 December |
| Hilary 2025 | Sunday 19 January | Saturday 15 March | |
| Trinity 2025 | Sunday 27 April | Saturday 21 June | |
| 2025-26 | Michaelmas 2025 | Sunday 12 October | Saturday 6 December |
| Hilary 2026 | Sunday 18 January | Saturday 14 March | |
| Trinity 2026 | Sunday 26 April | Saturday 20 June | |
| 2026-27 | Michaelmas 2026 | Sunday 11 October | Saturday 5 December |
| Hilary 2027 | Sunday 17 January | Saturday 13 March | |
| Trinity 2027 | Sunday 25 April | Saturday 19 June | |
| 2027-28 | Michaelmas 2027 | Sunday 10 October | Saturday 4 December |
| Hilary 2028 | Sunday 16 January | Saturday 11 March | |
| Trinity 2028 | Sunday 23 April | Saturday 17 June | |
| 2028-29 | Michaelmas 2028 | Sunday 8 October | Saturday 2 December |
| Hilary 2029 | Sunday 14 January | Saturday 10 March | |
| Trinity 2029 | Sunday 22 April | Saturday 16 June | |
| 2029-30 | Michaelmas 2029 | Sunday 7 October | Saturday 1 December |
| Hilary 2030 | Sunday 13 January | Saturday 9 March | |
| Trinity 2030 | Sunday 28 April | Saturday 22 June | |
| 2030-31 | Michaelmas 2030 | Sunday 13 October | Saturday 7 December |
| Hilary 2031 | Sunday 19 January | Saturday 15 March | |
| Trinity 2031 | Sunday 27 April | Saturday 21 June |
How Long Are Oxford University Terms?
Did you know that Oxford University’s terms are a concise eight weeks long? That’s a tad shorter than many other universities out there.
But don’t be fooled by the duration; the learning pace at Oxford is nothing short of intense. If you’re a student there, you’re in for a ride! You’ll be diving deep into your studies, making every moment count.
Now, you might wonder, why such a short term? Well, this eight-week term system has its perks.
For starters, it lets students immerse themselves in their studies without dragging it out, potentially leading to stellar academic outcomes.
But it’s not all work and no play. With a compact term, students get ample opportunities to explore the myriad of extracurricular activities that Oxford proudly boasts, be it sports, clubs, or vibrant societies.
And guess what? Those longer breaks between terms? Perfect for students to quench their wanderlust, traveling and soaking in diverse cultures.
However, every coin has two sides. The eight-week term does pose some challenges. Balancing work and leisure can get a tad tricky during these intense weeks.
And for those who hail from distant lands, the vacations might be a bit heavy on the pocket, especially if they’re traveling back home.
Not to mention, international students might find the initial adjustment to Oxford’s unique culture and academic rhythm a bit daunting.
But here’s the thing: the Oxford term system, with all its quirks, is an integral part of the Oxford experience. It’s been this way for centuries, and it’s stood the test of time. It has its pros and cons, but hey, that’s what makes it uniquely Oxford!
What are the meanings of the three Oxford University terms, Michaelmas, Hilary, and Trinity?
- Michaelmas Term is named after the Feast of St Michael and All Angels, which is celebrated on September 29th. This feast day commemorates the archangel Michael, who is considered to be the leader of the angels and the protector of humanity.
- Hilary Term is named after the feast day of St Hilary of Poitiers, which is celebrated on January 14th. St Hilary was a 4th-century bishop and theologian who is known for his defense of the Christian faith against Arianism.
- Trinity Term is named after Trinity Sunday, which falls eight weeks after Easter. Trinity Sunday is a feast day that celebrates the mystery of the Trinity, which is the belief that one God exists in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
The names of the Oxford terms are a reminder of the university’s Christian heritage. However, the terms themselves are not religious in nature. They are simply a way of dividing up the academic year.
The three terms are also associated with different seasons of the year:
- Michaelmas Term is the autumn term.
- Hilary Term is the spring term.
- Trinity Term is the summer term
Some of the main events in each term:
Michaelmas Term:
Freshers’ Week: Ah, the beginning of an exciting journey! The week before first week of Michaelmas Term, Week 0 or Noughth Week (!), is famously known as Freshers’ Week.
It’s a whirlwind of a week where newbies get to familiarize themselves with the historic Oxford surroundings, bond with their peers, and get a taste of what Oxford University and college life is all about.
Matriculation: Now, this is a rite of passage! Matriculation is that grand ceremony where newcomers are officially welcomed into the Oxford family.
Taking place at the onset of Michaelmas Term, it’s not just a formality but a cherished tradition, marking your formal admission to this prestigious institution.
Hilary Term:
Torpids: Ever heard of the thrilling Torpids event? It’s a highlight of the Hilary term at Oxford.
Imagine a 4 day long, adrenaline-pumping bumping race where Oxford colleges go head-to-head, vying for supremacy. And the backdrop?
The serene River Thames, which comes alive with the rhythmic splashes of oars and the cheers of spectators. It’s not just a race; it’s a tradition, a spectacle, and an embodiment of the competitive spirit of Oxford colleges.
Trinity Term:
May Day celebrations: Ah, the joys of spring! May Day is a time-honoured British festivity that welcomes the blossoming season.
And in Oxford? It’s nothing short of magical. Oxford pulls out all the stops with a myriad of celebrations. P
Eights Week: If you’re a fan of rowing, then Eights Week is the event to mark on your calendar. Held in the sun-kissed days of 5th week, this 4 day rowing regatta sees Oxford colleges battling it out on the water. It’s not just about the competition; it’s a spectacle, drawing in students and spectators alike, all cheering for their favourite crews.
Summer balls: As the academic year winds down, Oxford knows how to throw a party!
Summer balls are the epitome of elegance and fun. Organized by the colleges usually at the culmination of Trinity Term, these dos are the perfect way for students to let their hair down and celebrate the year’s achievements.
Imagine dancing under the stars, live music echoing in the background, and memories being made with friends. And surviving! Below photo the morning after the night before of my own Jesus Summer Ball a few years ago!
Remember, Oxford University term dates are unique.
And for more insights into student life come on one of my Oxford University Tours!
For Oxford University merchandise (#ad) visit my dedicated Amazon page.
Click on the #ad below to go straight to the product page for Oxford University Licensed Unisex Hooded Sweatshirt Navy/Grey
- Oxford University Chancellor - November 11, 2024
- Oxford Interviews - August 26, 2024
- Oxford Botanic Garden - April 18, 2024