The academic calendar at Texas Lutheran University (TLU) outlines key dates and deadlines for students throughout the year. This calendar is an essential tool for planning classes, assignments, and other academic activities.

Importance of Adhering to the Academic Calendar
Sticking to the academic calendar is crucial for students’ academic success. It ensures that students:
- Meet assignment deadlines on time
- Avoid missing important exams or quizzes
- Plan for breaks and holidays
- Make informed decisions about their academic workload
Key Dates and Deadlines
The TLU academic calendar includes the following key dates and deadlines:
-
Fall Semester:
- Classes begin: August 28
- Labor Day holiday: September 4
- Midterm exams: October 16-20
- Thanksgiving break: No classes November 23-27
- Finals week: December 11-15
- Winter break begins: December 16
-
Spring Semester:
- Classes begin: January 17
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day holiday: January 16
- Spring break: No classes March 13-17
- Midterm exams: March 27-31
- Study day: May 1
- Finals week: May 8-12
- Commencement: May 13
Time Management Tips for Students
Students can manage their time effectively by:
- Reading the academic calendar carefully
- Mark important dates and deadlines in their planners
- Break down large assignments into smaller tasks
- Prioritize assignments based on due dates
- Take advantage of breaks and holidays to catch up on work
- Seek help from professors or classmates when needed
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Students should avoid making the following common mistakes:
- Procrastinating on assignments
- Overlooking due dates
- Attempting to complete too many tasks at once
- Neglecting to plan for breaks
- Failing to communicate with professors about absences or late assignments
Step-by-Step Approach to Planning with the Academic Calendar
- Review the academic calendar and identify key dates and deadlines.
- Mark these dates in your planner or calendar.
- Break down large assignments into smaller tasks.
- Prioritize assignments based on due dates.
- Create a weekly to-do list to stay organized.
- Take advantage of breaks and holidays to catch up on work.
- Seek assistance from professors or classmates when needed.
Why the Academic Calendar Matters
TLU’s academic calendar provides students with a clear framework for their academic year. By adhering to the calendar, students can:
- Maximize their academic potential
- Avoid academic penalties
- Manage their time effectively
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Achieve their educational goals
Benefits of Using the TLU Academic Calendar
Using the TLU academic calendar offers students numerous benefits, including:
- Increased organization: The calendar helps students stay organized and avoid missing important dates.
- Improved time management: By planning ahead using the calendar, students can manage their time more effectively.
- Reduced stress: Adhering to the calendar reduces stress by preventing missed deadlines and unexpected events.
- Enhanced academic performance: By meeting assignment deadlines and attending classes regularly, students improve their academic performance.
- Greater success in college: Students who use the academic calendar are more likely to succeed in college and achieve their educational goals.