Navigating classes during the holidays can be challenging for Jewish college students, particularly if your school does not have formal accommodations in place. Clear and proactive communication with your professors is key to observing the holidays while staying on track academically. This guide offers step-by-step guidance, email templates, and best practices to help you communicate confidently, manage your coursework, and maintain positive relationships with your professors.
Holiday Schedule
The Jewish calendar includes several major holidays when work or school obligations are traditionally avoided. You may take time off to prepare for and observe these holidays and can request accommodations as needed. Most Jewish holidays begin the evening before the listed date and continue through the following day. Here are the dates for the holidays that occur during this year’s spring semester:
Purim
Begins sunset of Monday, March 2, 2026
Ends nightfall of Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Passover
Begins sunset of Wednesday, April 1, 2026
Ends nightfall of Thursday, April 9, 2026
Shavuot
Begins sunset of Thursday, May 21, 2026
Ends nightfall of Saturday, May 23, 2026