The crossword solution for the term 'HALF A SCH. YEAR' is SEM, which stands for semester. A semester is a period of time in an academic year, typically lasting around 15 weeks. It is usually divided into two parts, with each part lasting about 7-8 weeks. A semester is usually divided into two halves, with the first half being referred to as the fall semester and the second half being referred to as the spring semester. Therefore, the term 'HALF A SCH. YEAR' can be interpreted as referring to either the fall or spring semester.