School Holidays in China 2024-2025

When does the school year in China actually begin, and how do public holidays fit into the academic calendar? China’s academic schedule reflects both its deep cultural roots and its globalised approach to education. Understanding the school calendar, including both public and private school holidays, is essential for planning. Whether you're a parent looking for the Best Tutoring Companies in China or a student planning for the next vacation, knowing when schools will be closed or operational is crucial. Let’s delve into the school holidays for the academic year 2024-2025.

Overview of School Holidays in China 2024-2025

The Chinese school year typically runs from September to July, with two major term breaks: the winter break, usually in January and February, and the summer break, lasting from July to August. These breaks are interspersed with public holidays like Chinese New Year and National Day, which often coincide with the school term.

The Ministry of Education is the governing body that determines the national education policy. However, the Municipal Commission of Education usually decides its own academic calendar, giving it some leeway to account for regional differences, such as climate conditions or local festivals.

International schools, which follow international curriculum such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), often adapt their calendars to align with their home countries, particularly those in Shanghai, Beijing, and other metropolitan areas. For instance, many international schools might start their academic year in late August and include shorter term breaks to reflect the practices of Western education systems.

The school year is divided into two semesters:

1. First Semester: Starts in September and runs until mid-January, with a break around National Day (1st October). It ends just before the Chinese New Year and is followed by the winter break.
2. Second Semester: Begins in late February or early March and continues until June. The summer vacation, which spans July and August, follows.

📈Boost your grades with our revision platform, used by 100,000+ students!
📝Access thousands of practice questions, study notes, and past papers for every subject.

📚 View IB Resources
📚 View A-Level Resources
📚 View GCSE Resources
📚 View IGCSE Resources

Public Holidays in China 2024-2025

Public holidays in China play a significant role in shaping the academic calendar. The General Office of the State Council is responsible for determining public holidays nationwide, which are observed by all schools and businesses unless otherwise stated. These holidays are rooted in Chinese tradition, offering a chance to engage with cultural and family activities. During these times, schools are closed, and most businesses also halt operations, although essential services, tourism, and retail sectors remain open in some capacity.

Here’s a list of public holidays in China for the academic year 2024-2025:

For the official release of the 2024 public holiday schedule, please visit the government website. Since the 2025 public holiday schedule has not been released yet, the above dates are an estimate. Please visit the government website for the most recent updates.

Cultural Significance of Major Public Holidays

As we can see above, Chinese public holidays are closely intertwined with Chinese cultural traditions stemming from thousands of years of history. Here are the major holiday customs and rituals:

• Chinese New Year: Perhaps the most iconic holiday in the Chinese calendar, the Chinese New Year involves a long winter break for students. Celebrations include lion dances, firecrackers, and extensive travel as families reunite. International students in China are often encouraged to immerse themselves in the cultural festivities.
• Qingming Festival: This day of remembrance provides a chance for reflection, as families honour their ancestors. Students may participate in community or family events, especially in more rural areas.
• Dragon Boat Festival: Students engage in activities such as watching or participating in dragon boat races. Some schools organise field trips or events to explain the cultural significance of the festival.

Taking part in these holiday traditions not only breeds a deeper sense of cultural awareness, but also cognitive benefits. According to an IGCSE tutor in China,

"Participating in Chinese holiday customs enhances students' cultural understanding and language skills, offering immersive experiences that complement their academic studies and foster deeper connections with local traditions."

Public and Private School Term Breaks in China 2024-2025

In China, the school term break schedule is decided by the Municipal Commission of Education. Usually, the term break schedule aligns with seasonal shifts and is roughly the same across cities. However, parents and students are advised to check on the official release on the specific municipal website, such as the Beijing and Shanghai release.

Furthermore, there may be slight variations based on the type of school that the student is enrolled in:

• Public Schools: In public schools, the winter break typically lasts from late January to early February, which is typically longer than Western schools. This break coincides with the Chinese New Year and is a significant time for family gatherings. The summer break spans from early July to late August, making it the longest holiday of the year.
• Private Schools: Private schools, especially those in metropolitan areas like Shanghai and Beijing, often follow a similar break pattern to public schools, though some may offer slightly extended summer vacations lasting until early September.
• International Schools: International schools in China tend to follow a Westernised schedule, especially in cities like Beijing and Shanghai. These schools often have a shorter winter break, typically around December to January, to align with international standards. The summer break also begins slightly earlier, usually in June, and lasts until late August. During breaks and holidays, it is popular for school children to focus on studies, including self-studying as well as learning from IB tutors in China.

Additional School Holidays in China

Aside from public holidays and term breaks, schools in certain regions may observe local holidays or take days off for exams. Often times, these additional school holidays reflect unique characteristics of the Education System in China. For example, some schools might close for a few days during the Gaokao (China’s National College Entrance Examination) in June, which is a pivotal event for high school students.

List of School Holiday Activities Ideas

The holidays provide ample time for students to not only relax but also engage in educational and enriching activities. Here are five activities to consider for your child during school holidays:

• Private Tutoring: Many students use school holidays to catch up on or advance their studies, particularly those following the IB curriculum. Many parents in big cities like Shanghai and Beijing would hire IB tutors in Beijing and IB tutors in Shanghai to better prepare their children for the IB exams. Whether it’s preparing for the next term or revising difficult subjects, private tutors are a valuable resource, providing support for students to stay ahead of the curve.
• Cultural Immersion Programmes: Students have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Chinese culture during their time off. Many cities, like Beijing, offer cultural immersion programmes that teach traditional Chinese crafts, martial arts, or language courses. Whether your child is a native or an international student, participating in cultural immersion can help them develop a deeper appreciation for their surroundings.
• Study Camps: Educational camps are a popular choice for students during the summer holidays. These camps often focus on specific subjects, from math camps organised by Peking University to science camps hosted by the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences.
• Sports and Adventure Camps: For those looking to stay active, sports camps are widely available in larger cities. Whether it’s football, swimming, or basketball, these camps provide both fun and physical exercise. Many sports camps offer sessions led by professional coaches, providing students with both skill-building and entertainment.
• Volunteering and Community Service: Volunteering has gained popularity among students, particularly those preparing for international education. From working with local charities to assisting with environmental projects, there are numerous opportunities to get involved. Volunteering also helps students develop essential life skills, such as teamwork and leadership, while making a positive impact on the community.

Conclusion

China’s school holidays are not just a break from the routine—they’re an essential part of the country’s cultural and educational landscape. Whether it’s participating in local festivals, catching up with studies through A-Level tutors in China, or immersing oneself in enriching activities, there are countless opportunities for students during these periods. By staying informed about public holidays, term breaks, and additional holidays, you can make the most of the academic year 2024-2025 and ensure a balanced and fulfilling experience for your child.