Special seminars, particularly those held in the summer and often advertised in Japan, may not offer any credit. Grades An academic year is an American college lasts eight to nine months, starting in late August or September. The semester system is the most common. Under this system, one term is fourteen to fifteen weeks long. Courses are completed in one term.
Most universities offer summer courses, though fewer than during the regular school year.
Many programs can be entered any term, though some admit students only in the fall. Students can graduate whenever they finish the requirements of their program. In most classes, teachers give students a schedule at the beginning of the course that lists the dates when papers or projects are due, when chapters of the textbooks are expected to be read, when tests are scheduled, and sometimes what subjects will be covered on certain days. Many teachers consider it important for students to ask questions in class and contribute to class discussions. Many classes are demanding, and sstudents have to work hard.