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The University of California (UC) system is considering a significant change involving the transition of all its campuses from the quarter system to the semester system. Although this may seem like a minor adjustment in scheduling, as reported by the Los Angeles Times, it could have a much greater impact on international families preparing for U.S. college admissions.
Understanding the Quarter vs. Semester Systems
Nearly 60 years ago, UC adopted the quarter system to meet enrollment demands. The shorter and more fast-paced terms allowed campuses to offer more classes and serve more students each year. At the time, many other public universities made similar changes to stay in line with schools like Stanford, which had been using the quarter system since World War I.
Today, the quarter system is becoming less common. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, fewer than 50 universities in the United States still use it, compared to around 150 in the mid-1990s.
Currently, only UC Berkeley and UC Merced follow the semester system. The rest of the UC campuses still use the quarter system. However, the university is now seriously considering moving all campuses to a semester schedule.
A spokesperson from the UC Office of the President explained that most universities in the United States use the semester system. Moving to this format would help UC align with other major institutions and improve coordination in several areas:
- It would make it easier for students to transfer, take classes at different campuses, and access internship opportunities by better matching the schedules of California community colleges and the California State University (CSU) system.
- It would also bring UC in line with top universities across the country, including Ivy League schools, strengthening UC’s overall competitiveness and making it easier for faculty to collaborate and conduct research.
Differences Between the Quarter and Semester Systems
| Academic Calendar | Quarter System (Current at most UCs) | Semester System (Proposed) |
| Terms per year | 3 quarters | 2 semesters |
| Weeks per term | About 10 weeks | About 15 weeks |
| Typical course load | 3–4 courses per term | 4–5 courses per term |
| Start of school year | Late September to early October | Late August to early September |
What Does This Mean for International Students?
If UC campuses switch to the semester system, international applicants may see benefits in several important areas.
1. Academic Adjustment
The quarter system moves at a fast pace, with each term lasting 10 weeks. The schedule is intense, and exams come quickly. For international students who are still adjusting to learning in English, this can make it challenging to keep up.
The semester system gives students 15 weeks per term, allowing more time to adapt to the language, learn classroom expectations, and develop skills like academic writing and participation in discussions.
2. Transfer Options
Many international students begin their U.S. education at California community colleges, which already use the semester calendar. The difference in academic calendars between community colleges and UC campuses can make transferring more difficult.
If UC campuses adopt the same semester system, it would simplify course planning, reduce scheduling conflicts, and make the transfer process clearer and more predictable.
3. Summer Internships and Research Programs
UC campuses that follow the quarter system often don’t finish their spring term until mid to late June. This creates a timing issue, as many internships, research programs, and study abroad opportunities begin in early June.
A semester calendar would allow students to complete the spring semester earlier, giving them a better chance to participate in these valuable summer experiences and strengthen their college and career profiles.
Looking Ahead
The UC system has not reached a final decision yet, but conversations about this potential change are ongoing. For international families, it is an important development to follow, especially with the 2026 application cycle approaching.
If you are planning to apply to a UC campus or considering the transfer path, it is important to stay informed and adjust your plans as needed. For personalized guidance, please contact Ivy Talent. We are here to support you through every step of the process.
