The Department of Basic Education (DBE) has officially confirmed the starting date for the 2025 academic year.
National Start Date Set for January
All schools across South Africa will begin the new school year on 15 January 2025, a continuation of the unified calendar system introduced in 2024. This marks a departure from the previously staggered schedules, where inland and coastal provinces operated on different timelines.
The single calendar ensures that provinces such as Gauteng, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga will now align with coastal regions like KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape. This shift aims to streamline the academic year across the country.
Year-End Date and Duration
The school year will end on 10 December 2025, covering 46 weeks in total. Within this period, learners will complete 199 classroom days and enjoy seven public holidays as breaks during the term.
A Consistent Academic Calendar
As in 2024, schools around the country will make use of a common calendar. Previously, schools adopted a staggered schedule which would see schools in coastal and inland provinces commence with learning on different days.
The decision to unify school schedules nationwide has been praised for simplifying planning for educators, learners, and parents alike. By maintaining a shared calendar, the DBE aims to foster greater cohesion in the academic structure across all provinces.
Learners, parents, and teachers can now plan ahead with certainty, knowing the exact dates for the upcoming school year.
Official 2025 School Calendar Breakdown
|
Term |
Duration |
Weeks |
Days |
Public Holidays |
School Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Term 1 |
15 Jan – 29 Mar |
11 |
53 (55) |
1 |
51 (53) |
|
Term 2 |
8 Apr – 27 Jun |
12 |
59 |
5+3 |
49 |
|
Term 3 |
22 Jul – 3 Oct |
11 |
54 |
1 |
52 |
|
Term 4 |
13 Oct – 10 Dec |
9 |
43 (45) |
0 |
47 (49) |
|
Total |
15 Jan – 10 Dec |
43 |
209 (213) |
7+3 |
199 (203) |
