1. Semester System:
- In the United States, Canada, and some other countries, the academic year is typically divided into two semesters. Each semester lasts for approximately 15-16 weeks, excluding breaks.
2. Quarter System:
- Some schools, particularly in the United States, follow the quarter system. The academic year is divided into four quarters, each lasting about 10-12 weeks.
3. Trimester System:
- The trimester system consists of three terms or trimesters. Each trimester typically lasts for 12-14 weeks. This system is less common compared to semesters or quarters.
4. Other Variations:
- In the United Kingdom and some European countries, the academic year is divided into three terms: autumn term, spring term, and summer term. Each term typically lasts for about 10-12 weeks.
- In many countries, the school year is divided into four terms, with each term lasting about 8-10 weeks.
It's important to note that these durations are approximate and can vary between institutions and countries. Additionally, the length of school terms may also be affected by factors such as public holidays, exam schedules, and regional variations.