Important Dates & Information
Our academic calendar, application deadlines, and school closures — everything you need to plan your studies with confidence.
The quarterly schedule.
AELS runs on a four-quarter system. Registration begins on the 1st Monday of every month.
January – March
Winter into spring. A fresh-start quarter and our main spring enrollment intake.
April – June
Spring into summer. Ideal weather and the lead-in to our summer sessions.
July – September
Summer into fall. Our intensive summer quarter and fall preparation.
October – December
Fall into winter. The holiday season and end-of-year goals.
Program end requirements
All programs must end in March, June, September, or December — regardless of when you start. Students who begin mid-quarter must enroll in and complete the following full quarter as well.
- Start in February → complete through June.
- Start in May → complete through September.
- Start in November → complete through March.
When to apply.
How far ahead you should apply depends on your situation. Earlier is always safer.
Overseas applicants
International students who need an I-20 for an F-1 visa. Apply early to allow enough time for visa processing and travel arrangements.
F-1 transfer students
Students transferring from another SEVP-approved institution. Submit your application and transfer documents at least 2 weeks before the quarter begins.
Change of status
Applicants changing from another visa status to F-1. Apply at least 2 months ahead due to USCIS processing times and extra documentation.
Placement test.
1–2 weeks before the quarter
Your test must be scheduled and completed 1–2 weeks before your quarter begins.
Placement test details →Sent by email
Full placement test details are emailed to you once your application is accepted and payment is received.
Federal holidays.
AELS observes all U.S. federal holidays. The school is closed on the following days.
| Holiday | When |
|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | January 1 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | 3rd Monday in January |
| Presidents’ Day | 3rd Monday in February |
| Memorial Day | Last Monday in May |
| Juneteenth | June 19 |
| Independence Day | July 4 |
| Labor Day | 1st Monday in September |
| Columbus Day | 2nd Monday in October |
| Veterans Day | November 11 |
| Thanksgiving Day | 4th Thursday in November |
| Day After Thanksgiving | Friday following Thanksgiving |
| Christmas Day | December 25 |
Ready to plan your start date?
Tell us when you'd like to begin and we'll walk you through the deadlines that apply to you.
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