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For undergraduate students, the academic year begins in late August and ends in late May. It is divided into 2 semesters, each approximately 15 weeks in length, with an optional brief term in January known as “Winterim”. In addition, there is a summer session, which is not considered part of the regular academic year. Visit the Academic Calendar for detailed information on term dates and vacation periods. During vacation periods, most of the residence halls and the dining hall are closed. Contact Residential Life for housing options during these times.
Graduate students study on a term schedule. International graduate students must be continuously enrolled in full time graduate study for three consecutive terms prior to being able to take a term off for vacation. For additional information please contact the College of Graduate Studies.
Course Load, Educational Methods and Practices
All international students must be enrolled in a full-time program. International students may only enroll in one online course per semester or term. English is used in all classes except in advanced foreign language courses. If you are not fluent in English, you need to have completed the highest level of English as a second language from an accredited institution in the United States. Plymouth State University requires a minimum TOEFL score of 520 for undergraduate students and 550 for graduate students.