by Zaynah Almasri
As we pack our bags for Fall Break—whether heading home, exploring New England, catching
up on sleep, or studying for the remaining midterms—it’s worth taking a look at how college
breaks unfold around the world. While the rhythm of mid-semester pauses may seem universal,
the ways students rest and recharge often reflect deep cultural differences in how societies view
education, family, and balance.
Europe
European universities often follow a different rhythm. In the U.K., students have “Reading Weeks” midway through term or periods meant for independent study that often double as mini-vacations. The “continental European” model, especially in France, Germany, and Spain, includes longer breaks between terms, often aligning with national holidays such as Christmas, Easter, or Toussaint (All Saints’ Week).
East Asia
Students in Europe frequently travel across borders thanks to low-cost transportation and the
close proximity of all countries in the Schengen Area. The length of these holidays highlights the
importance of balance and well-being in Europe within higher education.
In China, the academic calendar is structured around two long breaks: Winter Break, coinciding
with Lunar New Year, and Summer Break, lasting up to two months. Both are times of mass
travel and family reunion, so significant that trains and airports often overflow with students
heading home.In Japan, the year includes three major breaks: spring (March–April), summer
(August–September), and winter (late December). The Japanese system values discipline and
continuity, but these frequent breaks allow students to rest, take part-time jobs, or engage in
cultural festivals. South Korean students, whose academic schedules are among the world’s
most demanding, also see long winter breaks as essential periods for internships, exam
preparation, or overseas travel.
Latin America
In Latin America, university breaks often coincide with national and religious events.
Many students in Argentina, Chile, and Colombia enjoy Semana Santa (Holy Week) in April,
winter breaks in July, and extended summer vacations from December to February. These
pauses often blend rest with family gatherings, local festivals, and volunteer work. The
community aspect of Latin American breaks reflect the cultural values of togetherness and
celebration.
Africa and the Middle East
Across Africa and the Middle East, university breaks often align with both the climate and
religious calendars.
In Kenya, Ghana, and Nigeria, institutions follow trimester systems, meaning students often get
several weeks between sessions—used for internships, travel, or family responsibilities.
In Muslim-majority countries such as Egypt, Morocco, and Jordan, academic schedules often
adjust to Ramadan and Eid celebrations which change yearly according to the lunar calendar.
While these breaks include academic rest, they are also about reflection, spirituality, and
reconnection with loved ones.
Rest
While the structure and reasoning behind breaks around the world is different country to country,
one factor unites them and that is the importance of REST! So wherever you find yourself this
fall break remember to take a moment to rest allowing for reflection, rejuvenation, and
rewinding.
Have a lovely break!