According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the academic calendar for the next five years has been approved by the Saudi Ministry of Education.
Saudi Ministry of Education Approves New Academic Calendar
The Saudi Ministry of Education has recently announced the approval of the academic calendar for the next five years, marking a significant overhaul in the educational framework across public schools, higher education institutions, and technical and vocational training centers in the kingdom.
Three-Term System Implementation
According to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), starting from the academic year 2024–2025, public schools will transition to a structured three-term system. This initiative aims to streamline the academic year and optimize learning outcomes for students. One of the key highlights of this reform includes an eight-week summer vacation period commencing in August.
Under the new calendar, the academic year will commence with the first term on August 18, 2024, followed by the second term beginning on November 17, 2024. The third term is slated to start on March 2, 2025, with the academic year concluding on June 26 of the same year.
Scheduled breaks and holidays
Throughout the academic year, students can look forward to scheduled breaks coinciding with National Day, autumn break, Eid Al-Fitr, Eid Al-Adha, and regular weekends. These breaks are strategically integrated to provide students with opportunities for rest and rejuvenation, fostering a balanced academic calendar.
The Saudi Ministry of Education retains the authority to assess and decide whether future academic years will continue under the three-term system or transition to a two-term structure. However, regardless of the system chosen, all academic frameworks must adhere to a minimum requirement of 180 school days per year, ensuring consistency and continuity in educational standards.
While public schools adhere to the prescribed academic calendar, universities, technical colleges, and international schools maintain the flexibility to establish their own academic calendars. However, they are mandated to align within the broader five-year timeframe approved by the Ministry of Education. This flexibility is designed to cater to the diverse needs of higher education and international educational standards, thereby enhancing the overall educational experience.
The overarching goal of these reforms is to enhance the educational process across Saudi Arabia. By introducing a structured academic calendar, the Ministry of Education aims to optimize student learning, improve academic performance, and standardize educational practices nationwide. This strategic approach not only ensures educational quality but also supports the kingdom's aspirations for a knowledgeable and skilled workforce prepared for future challenges.
The Saudi Ministry of Education's approval of the new academic calendar marks a pivotal step towards educational reform in the kingdom. With a focus on structured terms, scheduled breaks, and flexibility in higher education, these reforms are poised to elevate the educational landscape and empower students and institutions alike to thrive in a dynamic global environment.
