Semester Break

Last Updated: 15.03.2026

Semester break is the rest period granted to students in Türkiye after the completion of the first term of the academic year. Officially known as mid-term break, this period is commonly referred to by the public as “15-day break”. The break typically begins at the end of January and lasts approximately two weeks. During this time, students take a pause from classes, rest, and prepare for the second term.

In school in Türkiye, the academic year generally consists of two terms. At the end of the first term, students enter the mid-term break, followed by the start of the second term. This structure aims to allow students to rest midway through the year and return to learning with renewed focus.

Etymology of the Word “Semester”

The word “sömestr” entered Turkish from the French word semestre, which itself derives from the Latin semestris. The Latin semestris means “six-month” or “half-year.” In education, the term refers to one of the two halves of the academic year. Therefore, “sömestr” actually denotes half of the school year, not the break itself. Over time in Türkiye, the term came to be used also for the holiday students take at the end of the mid-term.

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Mid-Term Breaks Worldwide

In many countries, the academic year is divided into two terms. This system is especially common in modern European and American education systems.

In different countries, these breaks are known by various names. For example, some countries use semester break, others use mid-year break, and in the United Kingdom, the term half-term break is used. These holidays generally occur in January or February and vary in duration from country to country.

Development of the Semester Break in Türkiye

The modern school system in the Ottoman Empire began to take shape in its final decades. In the 19th century, the education system was reorganized and schools were divided into distinct academic terms.

After the proclamation of the Republic, the education system was restructured and the academic year was aligned with a more systematic calendar. During this period, the academic year was divided into two terms, and a mid-term break was introduced to provide students with rest between terms.

Over time, students began referring to this holiday as the “15-day break” because it typically lasted around 15 days.

Current School Holidays in Türkiye

In Türkiye, the school calendar is determined by the Ministry of National Education. Today, students observe several different holidays during the academic year.

These generally include:

First term
Mid-term (semester) break
Second term
Summer break

In recent years, the academic calendar has also been expanded to include short breaks, giving students more frequent opportunities to rest throughout the year.

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Psychological and Educational Importance of the Semester Break

Educational scientists and pedagogues emphasize the importance of the mid-term break for children’s development. During school, students continuously acquire new knowledge, complete assignments, and prepare for exams. This intense pace can sometimes be exhausting.

The mid-term break helps children rest mentally. A rested mind is better able to absorb new information. The break also reduces stress and allows children to feel more relaxed.

Time spent with family during this period also supports children’s emotional development. Family conversations, shared outings, and joint activities help children feel secure.

Moreover, holidays provide a valuable opportunity for children to develop social skills. Games played with friends, participation in activities, and trips strengthen children’s communication abilities.