Vanguard University operates on a three 16-week semester academic calendar.  The new academic calendar year begins in late August. Each semester may have eight- and five-week mini-terms built within the overall semester. The university's Academic Calendar can be accessed online. 

Fall Semester —The semester normally is scheduled from late August to the Christmas Holiday.

• For traditional undergraduate students, a normal load for the fall term is twelve to eighteen credits. Students receiving Cal Grant aid are encouraged to enroll in 15 credits during the Fall and Spring term.
• Students enrolled in Professional Education Programs are required to take a minimum of 9 credits to maintain full-time status each term.
• Students enrolled in Graduate programs are required to take between 6-9 credits to maintain full-time status each term.

Spring Semester —The semester normally is scheduled from early January to early May.

• For traditional undergraduate students, a normal load for the fall term is twelve to eighteen credits. Students receiving Cal Grant aid are encouraged to enroll in 15 credits during the Fall and Spring term.
• Students enrolled in Professional Education Programs are required to take a minimum of 9 credits to maintain full-time status each term.
• Students enrolled in Graduate programs are required to take between 6-9 credits to maintain full-time status each term.

Summer Semester —The Summer term, which normally is scheduled from mid-May through late August.

• Students in the traditional undergraduate program may enroll in courses during the summer term, but will need to consult their financial aid counselor to see if aid is available.
• Students enrolled in Professional Education programs are required to take a minimum of 9 credits to maintain full-time status each term; covered by financial aid.
• Students enrolled in Graduate programs are required to take between 6-9 credits to maintain full-time status each term; covered by financial aid.  Graduate students are encouraged to speak with their program coordinator to determine if summer sessions are required or optional.