Don't miss these important dates and deadlines as you plan for the fall 2024 semester. From census to drop deadlines, to course registration and graduation, mark your calendar now.
Friday, August 16, 2024

As a student at the University of Iowa in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, please be mindful of these key dates and deadlines for the fall 2024 semester. 

Here are a few tips for staying ahead of important dates: 

  • Create a calendar or planner and mark down all the important dates and deadlines for your semester. 
  • Set reminders for yourself on your phone or computer marking upcoming deadlines. 
  • Be aware of your course assignments to avoid the stress of missing a deadline. 
  • Talk to your academic advisor if you have any questions about important dates and deadlines.  

Four key dates and deadlines to keep in mind: 

Census date
Monday, Sept. 9, 2024

The census date is the date for enrollment in a certain number of credits to be eligible for some scholarships and financial aid. If you do not meet the census requirement, you may have to pay more tuition or lose financial aid. Be sure to check with student financial aid for more information about your specific situation if you are changing your schedule. 

Tip: Keep track of your credit hours throughout the semester so that you do not accidentally fall below the requirement. 

Add or drop deadlines
Several dates

Add/drop deadlines allow you to add or drop classes without penalty. After the first add/drop deadline, you will only be able to drop classes with a W grade, which will not affect your GPA. 

Tip: If your course does not meet for the full semester, the deadlines will vary. Be sure to check your specific course deadline.

  • Last day to drop without a W (full semester-length courses only): Monday, Sept. 9, 2024
  • Last day to add without collegiate approval: Monday, Sept. 9, 2024
  • Last day to drop (full semester-length courses only): Monday, Nov. 18, 2024
  • Last day to withdraw from the entire spring 2024 semester: Monday, Nov. 18, 2024

Winter and spring registration 
Nov. 11-Dec. 6.

It’s important to register for next semester’s classes as soon as you are eligible to ensure you get the classes you need for graduation.

Tip: Schedule an appointment with your advisor about a month before registration to plan your schedule. If you get notified about a registration hold, clear it as soon as possible.

  • Meet with your academic advisor to be cleared for registration, if necessary 
  • Spring 2025 schedule builder open: Monday, Sept. 30, 2024
  • Early registration for winter begins: Monday, Nov. 11-Friday, Dec. 6, 2024
  • Early registration for spring begins: Monday, Nov. 11-Friday, Dec. 6, 2024

Final exams 
Dec. 16-20, 2024

Final exams are held at the end of each semester. They are typically not during your normal course meeting time. Be sure to check your syllabus.

Tip: Start studying for your final exams early! This will help you to avoid feeling overwhelmed and stressed during finals week.

  • Last day of class before final exams: Friday, Dec. 13, 2024
  • Final Exam Week: Dec. 16-20, 2024

Other important deadlines

Tip: Start working on your scholarship and graduate school applications early. This will give you plenty of time to gather all of the required materials and proofread your essays.

  • Deadline to apply for Fall 2024 graduation: Friday, Oct. 4, 2024
  • Midterm reports: Friday, Oct. 25, 2024
  • Fall break: Nov. 25-29, 2024
  • CLAS Commencement: Sunday, Dec. 22, 2024
  • Fall grades posted: Monday, Dec. 30, 2024

In addition to these general university and college deadlines, there are other important dates and deadlines specific to your classes or program of study. Be sure to check your syllabi and keep an eye on your uiowa e-mail.