Brown University Academic Calendar 2026-2027
Providence, Rhode Island
Private | Semester System | ~11000 Students
Looking for important Brown University academic calendar dates? Below you'll find registration periods, semester information, finals, commencement, and other resources.
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School Facts Card
School's Name
Brown University
School's City
Providence
School's State
Rhode Island
School Semester System
Semester
School's Enrollment
11000
School's Type
Private
Important Academic Dates
Fall Semester
Fall Semester Begins
September 8, 2026
Fall Add/Drop Deadline
September 21, 2001
Fall Withdrawal Deadline
Fall Finals Week Start Date
December 11, 2026
Fall Finals Week End Date
December 20, 2026
Spring Semester
Spring Semester Begins
January 26, 2027
Spring Add/Drop Deadline
February 8, 2027
Spring Break Start Date
March 26, 2027
Spring Break End Date
April 3, 2027
Spring Withdrawal Deadline
Spring Finals Week Start Date
May 11, 2027
Spring Finals Week End Date
May 20, 2027
Other Important Dates
Commencement Date
Brown University
Summer Semester Begins
Providence
University Overview
Brown University is a private Ivy League research university in Providence, Rhode Island. Brown follows a semester-based academic calendar with Fall and Spring semesters, along with a Winter Wintersession and Summer Session. The Office of the Registrar maintains the official academic calendar.
Semester Overview
Fall Semester
The Fall 2026 semester begins September 9, 2026. The last day to add a course without a fee is September 22, while the final course-add deadline is October 6. Thanksgiving Recess runs November 25-29. Classes end December 11, followed by the final examination period from December 12-21.
Spring Semester
The Spring 2027 semester begins January 27, 2027. The last day to add a course without a fee is February 9, while the final course-add deadline is February 24. Spring Recess runs March 27-April 4. Classes resume April 5, classes end May 11, and final examinations run May 12-21.
Brown offers a Winter Wintersession rather than a traditional Winter semester. Wintersession courses begin December 22, 2026, and end with final examinations on January 26, 2027.
Summer Semester
Brown offers a Summer Session beginning June 15, 2026. Summer classes end July 24, followed by a reading period and final examinations from July 29-31.
Registration Overview
Brown's registration periods vary by student semester level. For Spring 2027, undergraduate registration opens in stages from November 10-13, 2026, with registration continuing through November 17. Registration reopens for all students on January 26, 2027.
Finals Overview
Fall 2026 final examinations run December 12-21. Winter Wintersession final examinations take place January 26, 2027. Spring 2027 final examinations run May 12-21, with no exams scheduled on Sunday, May 16.
​Graduation Overview
Brown's Commencement and Reunion Weekend is scheduled for May 28-30, 2027.
What Actually Works
Add every important academic deadline to one calendar
Review every course syllabus during the first week
Meet with your academic advisor before registration
Register as soon as your enrollment window opens
Track Wintersession courses separately
Pay attention to late add and drop deadlines
Begin preparing for final exams before finals week
Check the official academic calendar regularly for updates
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find the official Brown University academic calendar?
The Dartmouth College Arts & Sciences Registrar's Office publishes the official academic calendar with term dates, registration periods, add/drop deadlines, examinations, and commencement information.
Does Brown University use semesters or quarters?
Brown University follows a semester-based academic calendar with Fall and Spring semesters, along with a Winter Wintersession and Summer Session.
Does Brown University offer Winter courses?
Yes. Brown offers Wintersession courses between the Fall and Spring semesters. The 2026-2027 Wintersession begins December 22, 2026, and ends January 26, 2027.
When is Spring Recess at Brown University?
Brown University's Spring 2027 Recess runs from March 27 through April 4, with classes resuming April 5.
Final Thoughts
The Brown University academic calendar is more than a schedule of important dates. It helps students coordinate coursework, registration, Wintersession courses, internships, employment, and graduation throughout the academic year. Reviewing it regularly can help you stay organized and avoid missing important academic deadlines.
Important Note
This page is intended for informational and planning purposes only. Academic calendars may vary by academic program, degree level, and course format. Always confirm registration dates, add/drop deadlines, withdrawal deadlines, examination schedules, and commencement information using Brown University's official academic calendar before making academic decisions.
