The Religious Observance Calendar is produced annually by the University’s Faith and Spirituality team. The calendar identifies the principal religious festivals and includes a list of specific observance dates and times of day (where appropriate) on which certain University activities shall be avoided. Religious Observance dates (or specific times of day on those dates) will be those dates determined at the absolute judgement of the Faith and Spirituality Team, on which it would be unreasonable to expect a follower of a recognised religion to engage with the University’s learning and teaching opportunities or assessment requirements, due solely to the obligations of that religion.
For all enquiries please email the University's Interfaith Adviser, Yusuf Kaplan [email protected].
Religious observance calendar for 2026–27
2026
- Rosh Hashana: Friday 11 September eve to Sunday 13 September eve
- Yom Kippur: Sunday 20 September eve to Monday 21 September eve
- Sukkot: Friday 25 September eve to Sunday 27 September eve
- Shmini Atzeret: Friday 2 October eve to Saturday 3 October eve
- Simchat Torah: Saturday 3 October eve to Sunday 4 October eve
2027
- Eid al Fitr: Tuesday 9 March
- Pesach: Wednesday 21 April eve to Friday 23 April eve
- Pesach (continued): Tuesday 27 April eve to Thursday 29 April eve
- Shavuot: Thursday 10 June eve to Saturday 12 June eve
- Eid al Adha: Sunday 16 May
Notes
- 'Eve' refers to the time from sunset when being in your place of residence with any preparations made in advance of observance, is necessary.
- Please note that Ramadan, Eid al Fitr and Eid al Adha are often adjusted by religious authorities after reported sightings of the lunar crescent. Allow one day either side, plus up to two additional days following for observance.
- The University tries to avoid setting any formal examinations on the dates identified in the Religious Observance Calendar. However, there may occasions when a student is unable to attend an examination or a scheduled assessment (eg an in-class test, presentation, or performance). If this is the case, you can submit a Religious Observance Scheduled Assessment form and we will try to accommodate your requirements.
- If it is not possible to accommodate your request and means you will miss a formal scheduled examination or assessment, you can submit a mitigating circumstances claim requesting a deferral to the next available assessment period. No evidence will be required to support the claim if the dates coincide with those published in the Religious Observance Calendar. Further information on how to apply for mitigating circumstances can be found on the mitigating circumstances claims page.
- Further information on the University’s Faith and Spirituality team and the support available can be found on the faith and spirituality page. Students can also refer to the University’s Religion, Belief and Study Policy.