The length of an academic year in American universities is about 9 months, starting from the end of August or the beginning of September every year until the end of May or June of the following year. The academic qualifications adopted by American universities vary from school to school and can be subdivided into semesters, quarters and three semesters. Different academic systems will affect the calculation of graduation credits, the way of starting classes and the learning cycle. Generally speaking, schools start in autumn ($ TERM) Although some schools accept applications for admission in any semester, there are many basic courses to choose from when the autumn class starts, and a briefing session will be held for freshmen. Therefore, autumn classes should be a better choice for admission. It should be noted that some majors in some schools enroll students twice a year in autumn and spring, and some majors may enroll students only once a year.

In addition, American universities also offer SummerSession, which is a summer course for those students who stay in school for more credits during the summer vacation and want to graduate early. /zd/lx