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 2025-26
2025
- Rosh Hashana: Monday 22 September eve to Wednesday 24 September eve
- Yom Kippur: Wednesday 1 October eve to Thursday 2 October eve
- Sukkot: Monday 6 October eve to Wednesday 8 October eve
- Shmini Atzeret: Monday 13 October eve to Tuesday 14 October eve
- Simchat Torah: Tuesday 14 October eve to Wednesday 15 October eve
2026
- Eid al Fitr* Friday 20 March
- Pesach Wednesday 1 April to Friday 3 April eve
- Pesach (continued) Tuesday 7 April eve to Thursday 9 April eve
- Shavuot Thursday 21 May eve to Saturday 23 May eve
- Eid al Adha* Wednesday 27 May
Notes
- 'Eve' refers to the time from sunset when being in one's 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, some work may be possible after fulfilling obligations. Allow one day either side, plus up to two additional days following for observance.
- The University understands that there may be occasions when a student is unable to attend an examination or a scheduled assessment (such as an in-class test, presentation, or performance) due to religious observance. If this means that 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.