As a student at the University of Iowa and in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, stay on top of these important dates and deadlines.
Monday, January 19, 2026

Important dates and deadlines

In addition to these general university and college deadlines, there are other important dates and deadlines specific to your classes or program of study. Be sure to check your syllabus and communicate with your instructor.  

Census date  

The census date is the deadline by which you must be enrolled in a certain number of credits to be considered a full-time student. If you do not meet the census requirement, you may have to pay more tuition or lose financial aid.   

Tip: Be sure to check with student financial aid for specific deadlines and requirements for your aid package.  

  • Spring 2026 census date: Monday, Feb. 2, 2026 

Add or drop deadlines  

If you think you want to make changes to your schedule, you should do so as soon as possible after consulting with your advisor and obtaining the required permissions.     

Tip: Registration deadlines vary by course length. Be sure to check your course’s specific deadline. View the registrar’s academic calendar for all semester-length course deadlines.  

  • Last day to drop without a W (full semester-length courses only): Monday, Feb. 2, 2026 
  • Last day to add without collegiate approval: Monday, Feb. 2, 2026 
  • Last day to drop (full semester-length courses only): Monday, April 20, 2026 
  • Last day to withdraw from the entire spring 2026 semester: Monday, April 20, 2026 

Registration opens  

It’s important to register for next semester’s classes as soon as you are eligible to ensure you get the classes you need for graduation.   

Tip: Mark down the general registration periods for now but check back on MyUI to find your specific date and time after Feb. 16 for summer and after March 9 for fall. Also, Schedule an appointment with your advisor about a month before your registration opens if you need authorization.  

  • Fall 2026 schedule builder opens: Monday, Feb. 9, 2026 
  • Early registration for summer begins: Monday, March 9Friday, March 13, 2026  
  • Early registration for fall begins: Monday, April 13Friday, May 1, 2026 

Final exams   

Final exams are held independently from your regular course meeting times and are scheduled midway through the semester. Read more about exam policies and schedules from the Office of the Registrar.  

Tip: Start preparing for your finals early! This will help alleviate stress and anxiety during finals week.  

  • Last day of class before final exams: Friday, May 8, 2026 
  • Final Exam Week: May 1115, 2026 

Other important deadlines  

  • Deadline to apply for Spring 2026 graduation: Friday, Feb. 27, 2026 
  • Spring break: March 1620, 2026 
  • CLAS Commencement: Saturday, May 16, 2026