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:
Rosh Hashana
Begins sunset of Friday, September 11, 2026
Ends nightfall of Sunday, September 13, 2026
Yom Kippur
Begins sunset of Sunday, September 20, 2026
Ends nightfall of Monday, September 21, 2026
Sukkot
Begins sunset of Friday, September 25, 2026
Ends nightfall of Friday, October 2, 2026
Shemini Atzeret & Simchat Torah
Begins sunset of Friday, October 2, 2026
Ends nightfall of Sunday, October 4, 2026