Academic Calendar and Schedule

For Fall 2020, the semester will begin early and end early. There will be no typical breaks in Fall 2020. There will be, however, an extended winter break once fall semester ends, beginning on November 25.

It is our intention to manage the academic calendar in a way that permits seniors to graduate on time. The Emergency Academic Committee (EAC) has made special exceptions for students who intend on completing their degree requirements in 2021. Please feel free to contact the Registrar’s Office should you have any questions or concerns about degree completion.

Yes, you should be able to do so, although in some cases the lab might operate a little differently in order to meet COVID-19–related safety guidelines.

At this time, we plan to begin Interim on January 4 as originally scheduled. This is subject to change based on the impact of COVID-19 and guidelines from the CDC and MDH.

At this time, spring semester will begin February 8 as originally scheduled. This is subject to change based on the impact of COVID-19 and guidelines from the CDC and MDH.

At this time, no. Grading will revert back to what it was prior to Spring 2020. This is subject to change should there be a disruption to classes.

The new fall schedule is designed to start and end early to minimize exposure and to complete the semester before the anticipated commencement of flu season. It is difficult to predict the future course of the pandemic, but we are modeling Interim and spring term calendars that should provide some flexibility to adjust to relatively short-term disruptions. Our plans are designed to try and minimize the likelihood that students will have to leave before the end of the fall semester. In the unfortunate event that this does occur, the College will have a plan for students to complete their coursework. As was done in Spring 2020, it is likely that completing the semester will entail classes and exams online. Regardless of the scenario in which we may find ourselves, faculty and academic support staff will be ready to provide a great St. Olaf education.

Given the 6 foot physical distancing guideline for classrooms, there is a high likelihood that some, if not many, classroom locations will change. This could also result in schedule changes. We are hoping to have more answers in July and will notify affected students at that time.

Most of our courses will be in person, though you can expect that many will have some online aspects in order to address physical distancing. Some courses will be fully online, and we are working to identify these. The course schedule will indicate which courses are fully online. If you are a high-risk student who would like to explore whether it is possible for you to pursue your coursework online, we will work with you to help you identify the courses that are appropriate for you. We cannot guarantee that there will always be online versions of the courses you want or need to take remotely.