Written by Theresa Arden
Session 3 at Charles Sturt University, otherwise known as the “summer session”, is a bit of a wild card. For some, it’s the perfect time to hit pause, soak up the sun, and forget what a due date even is. For others, it’s a golden chance to fast-track a degree, catch up on a missed subject, or simply keep the study momentum rolling while things are a little quieter.
Unlike Sessions 1 or 2, Session 3 is shorter and sharper. It usually kicks off in mid-November and runs through to February, which means it takes a casual jog right through Christmas, New Year, and the best part of the BBQ season. That might sound like chaos waiting to happen, but honestly — it can work in your favour. Fewer distractions, less campus traffic, and a nice excuse to “study” with an iced coffee by your side. Win-win.
Before you dive in, do a quick check of which subjects are running. Not every unit is offered over summer, so take a look at the Subject Availability List early and plan ahead. You can find out if your course includes mandatory Session 3 study here. If not, and you’re thinking of jumping in, get in quick so you don’t miss your spot.
Now, a gentle reality check. Session 3 moves fast. With a condensed schedule and only a tiny mid-session break, it’s not the time to go full superhero mode. Between family gatherings, travel plans, part-time work, and the mysterious ability of December to disappear overnight, overloading yourself is a fast track to burnout. It’s far better to take one or two subjects and give them your full focus than to juggle four and end up writing essays in between Christmas lunch and Boxing Day leftovers.
Make sure you note the key dates early:
- Session starts: 17 November 2025
- Census date: 5th December 2025 (your deadline to finalise enrolments or withdraw without penalty)
- Exams: 9th to 13th February 2025, Exam block runs for ONE week. Though some subjects use alternative assessments
And yes, support is still running during the holidays. CSU’s online orientation, academic skills workshops, and library services are all open and accessible, even when you’re studying from home. Student Central and your lecturers are also just an email away, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help. Even during summer, you’re never on your own.
Since Session 3 flies by, planning early really pays off. Assessments tend to come up faster than usual, so map out your study time before life gets festive. Even if you’re juggling travel or family events, a couple of focused study sessions each week can make all the difference. Many students find that the quieter, more relaxed pace of summer helps them concentrate. There’s also fewer distractions and more daylight.
In the end, Session 3 is all about balance. Keep it realistic, plan ahead, and remember that rest is part of productivity. With a good plan (and maybe a few snacks), you can stay on top of study and enjoy the holidays too.
So go on, make the most of it. Study hard, nap harder, and remember that there’s no rule saying you can’t write a discussion post with a mince pie in hand.
Charlie blog is a SSAF initiative.
