Key academic updates to know as Semester starts
Welcome to a new Semester at La Trobe! While you were enjoying a summer break, there’s been some important academic and study related updates that will affect how you plan, study and sit assessments this year.
Here’s a quick guide to what’s changed and what you need to know as classes get underway.
Academic Calendar changes
There have been additional updates to the Academic Calendar, including changes to teaching periods and key dates.
Here’s what’s new from 2026 onwards:
- A standard week off between Terms
You’ll now have a regular break between Terms to rest or catch up.
- Summer Semester is back
Depending on your course, you may have the option to study over Summer, giving you more choice in how you plan your year.
- Winter Term is removed
This helps simplify the calendar and reduce overlap.
- Earlier start dates for Semester 2 and Summer
This allows us to offer three 12-week Semesters each year.
Stay informed:
Always refer to the official La Trobe Academic Calendar for the most up to date information relevant to your course and study period. Or read this FAQ for more info.
Census dates have been adjusted
Some Census dates have changed across teaching periods, which affects when you need to finalise your enrolment, withdraw from subjects or make changes without financial or academic penalty.
Why this matters
The Census date is the key deadline that determines:
- Whether you’re financially liable for a subject
- Whether a subject appears on your academic record
What’s changed in 2026?
Census dates are moving to Wednesdays and are no longer a fixed date each semester (previously always 31 March and 31 August). This change means you’ll always be able to get support before the deadline.
- Semesters: Census is on Wednesday of Week 5
- Terms: Census is on Wednesday of Week 3
What to do now
Check the Census date for each of your subjects via the Academic Calendar and set reminders so you don’t miss important deadlines.
AI at La Trobe – what you need to know
You now have access to CoPilot Chat (Microsoft’s AI assistant) through your La Trobe account. It’s available in Teams and Edge. Log in with your student account to use it securely. Find further instructions in the Library AI Guide or visit our AI at La Trobe in 2026 article.
AI in assessments
Late last year, we introduced compulsory AI Acknowledgments for assessments. For many students, this will be the first time you’re encountering these rules.
For detailed information on the statements and for a handy quick reference guide, see the Library Guides Generative AI in Assignments webpage.
Exams have had a facelift
1. Final assessment periods have changed. Two key changes are:
- Some exams may be scheduled on Saturdays. This helps us manage exam timetables more effectively and reduce clashes during peak exam periods.
- Exam periods are changing
- Semesters: Shorter exam periods
- Terms: Longer exam periods
Tip: Once the exam timetable is released, check it early and plan ahead. For further information regarding exams, visit the exams webpage.
2. You’ll need to complete your technology test before online exams
If you’re sitting an online exam, you’ll now be required to complete a technology test before your exam date. This helps ensure you can successfully complete your exam.
Tip: Complete your technology test as early as possible, don’t leave it until the last minute. We suggest at least one week before your exam.
What this means for you:
- Exams can be scheduled Monday to Saturday during the exam period
- You should keep Saturdays available when planning work, travel or other commitments during exams
Revised study support through the Library
From 2026, the Library offers a revised range of free study and research support to help you build confidence and succeed in your assessments. Studiosity and Discipline Hubs are no longer available, with support now focused on Library‑led workshops, one‑to‑one appointments, peer support and online help.
You can access:
- Workshops and training sessions
- One‑to‑one appointments with Academic Skills Advisors and librarians
- Peer Learning Advisors (PLAs)
- Online chat support, including Chat with a Librarian or a Peer Learning Advisor
- Learning support modules and help guides available via the LMS
Library hours have also been extended for the Albury-Wodonga and Bendigo campus libraries. Visit the Library website for the latest opening hours.
Get ready for Semester
These updates are designed to support a smoother academic experience, but they do rely on you staying informed and prepared.
- Check key dates early
- Read assessment instructions carefully
- Use the support available
- Plan ahead for exams
We’re looking forward to a great Semester and we’re here to support you every step of the way.