What does the academic calendar look like at the Coast Guard Academy?

For anyone familiar with the schedule at the Coast Guard Academy, what does their academic calendar typically include? Do they have different semesters or unique breaks that differ from other colleges?

The academic calendar at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy operates on the semester system, starting in the Fall and ending in late Spring. The key elements include:

1. Swab Summer Orientation: This is a 7-week military training program for incoming students ("Swabs") that begins around late June and ends in mid-August. This is unique to military academies and differs from typical college orientations.

2. Academic year: The academic year is divided into two semesters. The Fall semester typically begins in late August and ends in mid-December. After a semester break, the Spring semester begins in early January and closes in mid-May.

3. Examinations: End-of-semester exams are usually scheduled in December and May.

4. Recess: There is a Fall break in October, a Thanksgiving break in November, a Winter break in late December, a Spring break in March, and a longer Summer break in May through August.

5. Graduation: The graduation and commissioning ceremony is usually held in mid-May.

Remember, the exact dates for the start and end of semesters, breaks, and examination periods can fluctuate slightly each year. It is advised to check the official USCGA website regularly for the most current academic calendar.