semestres

Semestre refers to a half-year term within an academic year during which instruction takes place and progress toward qualifications is assessed. In many education systems, the year is divided into two semestres, commonly called the first (or autumn/winter) and second (or spring) semester, though some institutions operate on three terms called trimesters. The exact start and end dates vary by country and institution.

A typical semester lasts 14 to 18 weeks of instruction, followed by a period of examinations or assessment. Some calendars include a short break between semesters, and many schools offer optional or required courses during a summer term or winter session.

Course load and credits are often defined per semester. In the United States, a full-time semester usually equals 12 to 18 credit hours, while in Europe, the European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System (ECTS) assigns roughly 60 credits for a full academic year, or about 30 credits per semester. The grading and assessment methods—exams, projects, assignments—vary by institution but aim to measure mastery within the term.

Regions differ in how semesters map to the academic year. In many Spanish-speaking and Portuguese-speaking countries, the school year is organized around two semestres; in some countries, semesters align with the seasons (fall and spring). Some universities also use trimester systems, dividing the year into three equal terms.

Semestres structure study plans, determine tuition billing, and influence prerequisites and progress toward degrees.