Planning Calendar
Keep the following dates in mind as you plan for fall.
Summer Dates
Early May–September 14: Purple Prep
Serving as the first step of the orientation process is Purple Prep. All elements of Purple Prep are virtual. Learn more about the three components of Northwestern's orientation process.
July 6–September 14: Before the Arch
Optional virtual opportunities to learn from current students about preparing for life at Northwestern.
August: Housing Assignments
In early August, new students learn of their assigned room/building, as well as roommate. The ability to choose a move-in appointment time becomes available shortly after assignments are sent by email. Learn more about the housing and residential experience.
September 14–15: International Wildcat Welcome
International students move to campus on September 13, several days ahead of the full class, to start Wildcat Welcome with International Wildcat Welcome. Learn more about International Wildcat Welcome, including programming, program dates, and the services of the Office of International Student and Scholar Services. This page also includes information about the logistics of your move-in day.
September 15: New Student Move-in Day
New first-year and transfer students move into campus residences throughout the day on September 15; international students move in earlier (as noted above) to participate in International Wildcat Welcome. Students moving in on September 15 are prompted to select a move-in appointment time in August. Learn more about the housing and residential experience.
September 15–22: Wildcat Welcome
The third and final step of Northwestern's orientation process is Wildcat Welcome. This mandatory in-person orientation program for all new undergraduates begins once students move to campus and continues throughout the week before fall quarter classes begin. Learn more about the three components of Northwestern's orientation process.
September 15–16: Parent and Family Orientation
Parent and Family Orientation (PFO), which will take place Tuesday, September 15 - Wednesday, September 16, is designed to introduce family members to the people and resources available to help support their students during their time at Northwestern. PFO is for the parents and families of both 2026 Transfer Students and the Class of 2030, and all programming is free. Please make sure your family members are aware of this important program. They can learn more at Parent & Family Orientation.
Fall Quarter Dates
September 23: Fall Quarter Classes Begin
Before classes begin, new students register for fall quarter courses during Wildcat Welcome. Wildcat Welcome also includes opportunities to learn about getting books and other course materials.
October 23-25: Family Weekend
Family Weekend occurs yearly and is open to the families of all undergraduate students. Programming during Family Weekend provides opportunities for families to experience Northwestern with their student. Learn more about Family Weekend.
November 26–29: Fall Break
Classes are held until 6 p.m. on November 25 and resume on November 30 at 8 a.m. Residence halls remain open during this time.
December 7–12: Fall Quarter Final Exams
Students learn of their exam schedule when they receive their course syllabi at the beginning of the fall quarter, with exams occurring throughout the week of December 7. Students depart campus after completing exams or no later than noon on December 13. Residence halls are closed during winter break (until January 3, 2026), though accommodations can be arranged with Residential Services.
Please note that all the above dates are subject to change.