ATBU Postgraduate Academic Calendar 2025/2026: Registration, Lectures, and Exam Dates

Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University (ATBU) School of Postgraduate Studies has released the academic calendar for postgraduate students for the 2025/2026 session. The calendar outlines registration periods, lecture schedules, examinations, and breaks for both semesters.

First Semester 2025/2026

Registration Period

• Registration Window: January 5-31, 2026
• Duration: 27 days for postgraduate registration
• Applies to: All postgraduate students (new and continuing)

Academic Activities

• Lectures Begin: January 12, 2026
• Lecture Duration: January 12 - March 31, 2026 (11 weeks)
• First Semester Examinations: April 8 - May 6, 2026
• Inter-Semester Break: May 7 - June 22, 2026

Second Semester 2025/2026

Registration Period

• Registration Window: June 22-26, 2026
• Duration: 5 days for second semester registration

Academic Activities

• Students Resume: June 22, 2026
• Lectures Begin: June 23, 2026
• Lecture Duration: June 23 - September 11, 2026 (12 weeks)
• Second Semester Examinations: September 14 - October 12, 2026
• Long Vacation Begins: October 13, 2026

Key Dates Summary

Special Postgraduate Programme: PG-ICT Training

The calendar includes a PG-ICT short training programme that runs throughout the entire 2025/2026 session. This training likely provides:

• Research methodology and ICT tools training
• Data analysis software instruction
• Academic writing and publication skills
• Digital research resources training

Postgraduate students should watch for announcements about PG-ICT training schedules and requirements.

Important Administrative Periods

Senate and Board Meetings

The calendar includes scheduled periods for:

• Postgraduate Board meetings
• Senate examination sessions
• Result processing and approval
• Departmental and faculty committee meetings

These administrative periods ensure timely processing of results and academic decisions.

What Postgraduate Students Must Do

For New PG Students (2025/2026 Intake)

1. Register by January 31: Complete first semester registration within deadline
2. Attend orientation: Participate in postgraduate student orientation if scheduled
3. Meet supervisors: For thesis/dissertation students, connect with assigned supervisors
4. Begin coursework: Start attending lectures from January 12
5. Understand requirements: Learn credit requirements and research expectations for your programme

For Continuing PG Students

1. Register on time: Complete registration within each semester's window
2. Submit pending work: Clear any outstanding coursework or research requirements
3. Progress reports: Submit required semester progress reports
4. Research milestones: Meet thesis/dissertation deadlines as per programme requirements

Registration Timeline Breakdown

First Semester (January 5-31)

With 27 days for registration, postgraduate students have more flexibility than undergraduate students. However:

• Register early to secure course slots
• Don't wait until final week
• Lectures begin January 12 (during registration period)
• Early registration ensures you don't miss initial lectures

Second Semester (June 22-26)

Only 5 days for second semester registration, so:

• Be ready when registration opens June 22
• Have fees paid before registration opens
• Complete registration quickly to focus on lectures
• Lectures begin June 23 (within registration window)

Examination Preparation

First Semester Exams (April 8 - May 6)

• 11 weeks of lectures provide adequate coverage time
• Begin preparation early in the semester
• Complete all coursework before exam period
• Coordinate with supervisors on research progress

Second Semester Exams (September 14 - October 12)

• 12 weeks of lectures (slightly longer than first semester)
• Final exams for many students completing coursework
• Research students may have thesis defenses during this period

Breaks and Planning

Inter-Semester Break (May 7 - June 22)

This 6-week break between semesters is important for:

• Research work: Conduct fieldwork, data collection, or analysis
• Coursework catch-up: Complete pending assignments or readings
• Thesis writing: Make progress on dissertation chapters
• Rest and recharge: Prepare for second semester intensity

Long Vacation (From October 13, 2026)

• Extended break after second semester exams
• Critical for thesis/dissertation completion
• Time for data analysis and writing
• Next session begins December 30, 2026

Next Academic Session

The calendar notes that the 2026/2027 academic session begins December 30, 2026. This is important for:

• Planning graduation timelines
• Students completing programmes in 2025/2026
• Thesis submission deadlines
• Final year project planning

For Different Postgraduate Programmes

Master's by Coursework

• Focus on completing course credits in both semesters
• Prepare for comprehensive exams if required
• Meet minimum credit requirements

Master's by Research

• Use lecture periods for research methodology courses
• Utilize breaks for intensive fieldwork and data collection
• Meet regularly with supervisor throughout session
• Plan thesis submission according to programme timeline

PhD Students

• Complete coursework requirements if in early years
• Make consistent progress on dissertation research
• Submit required progress reports to Postgraduate Board
• Plan defense timelines according to school requirements

Important Reminders

• First Semester Registration: January 5-31, 2026
• Second Semester Registration: June 22-26, 2026 (shorter window!)
• First Semester Exams: April 8 - May 6, 2026
• Second Semester Exams: September 14 - October 12, 2026
• PG-ICT Training: Runs throughout 2025/2026 session
• Next Session Begins: December 30, 2026

Administrative Contact

For postgraduate-specific enquiries:

• School of Postgraduate Studies: Visit ATBU Postgraduate School office
• Programme Coordinator: Contact your department's PG coordinator
• ATBU Official Website: Check for updates and detailed information

Planning Your Academic Year

Use this calendar to:

• Mark critical dates: Add registration and exam dates to your personal calendar
• Plan research activities: Schedule fieldwork during breaks
• Budget time: Balance work, studies, and research commitments
• Meet deadlines: Stay on track for timely programme completion
• Coordinate with supervisors: Align research progress with academic calendar

Key Takeaways

• Register early: First semester registration opens January 5
• 11-12 week semesters: Adequate time for coursework and research
• Plan breaks wisely: Use for intensive research work
• Second semester registration short: Only 5 days, register promptly
• PG-ICT training available: Enhance research and technical skills