Makerere University has officially released its semester calendar for the 2025/2026 academic year, revealing revised timelines — including the new dates for the university’s highly anticipated 2026 graduation week.
According to the Academic Registrar’s circular, the 2026 graduation ceremonies will take place from Wednesday 25th February to Friday 27th February 2026. This places the event a little earlier than many students had speculated, giving finalists a clear timeline for preparation, clearance, and completion of academic requirements.
The updated schedule arrives as the university maintains its blended teaching model, with both physical and online learning continuing across the year.
Key highlights from the calendar include:
- Semester One:
Runs from 9th August to 6th December 2025, with examinations set between 17th November and 6th December. - Semester One Holiday:
Students will go for break from 6th December 2025 to 16th January 2026. - Semester Two:
Set for 24th January to 23rd May 2026, with exams beginning 4th May 2026. - Recess:
A lengthy recess period will follow from 23rd May to 1st August 2026.
The confirmation of the February 2026 graduation dates brings relief to thousands of finalists who have been waiting for an official announcement. Many had expressed concerns about potential delays following past adjustments triggered by institutional disruptions and national events.
With the dates now firmly set, students are expected to begin the clearance process early to avoid the last-minute rush that typically overwhelms university offices ahead of graduation season.
