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College admissions

Course: college admissions   >   unit 4.

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Table of Contents

• October 10, 2023

Navigating the College Application Timeline – A Comprehensive Guide

College journey is exciting and transformative. I resumed my college years timid and unexpectant; nonetheless, I graduated with lifelong knowledge and relationships. 

Therefore, if you’re feeling unprepared and nervous, trust me; I’ve been there and done that. 

I have provided a comprehensive overview of college life, highlighting what to do (and what not to do) to ensure you don’t sink this monumental voyage.

Navigating the college application timeline is critical, and a thorough understanding of it can help you stay organized and increase your chances of successful admission. 

In this guide, I’ll walk you through each stage of the college application process, from early preparation to decision day. Additionally, you’ll discover a handy year-round tailored timeline outlining the key milestones and actions to take at each stage of your application.

Freshman Year: Starting Early

In your freshman year of high school, build relationships with teachers and counselors, take AP classes, create an effective schedule, understand your preferred study methods, engage in clubs and sports, explore various interests, choose your courses wisely, and start early with extracurricular activities while focusing on continuous progress and improvement.

In details:

Enroll in College-Preparatory Classes

Most high schoolers enter college naively and are overwhelmed by their subjects and advanced materials. 

Prepare yourself beforehand by taking AP, IB, and other academically demanding courses (including Honors, dual enrollment, and CLEP) during your high school years to make sure you transition easily. 

Focus on the fundamental fields of study, such as Mathematics, Science, English, and History. These classes make college easier and boost your chances of acceptance.

Sophomore and Junior Years: Preparing for the Journey Ahead

You can prepare for college in your sophomore and junior years by taking courses, attending career fairs, seeking mentorship, researching colleges, and getting ready for standardized tests including the PSAT/NMSQT. Furthermore, explore scholarship opportunities, visit campuses, and consider top programs in your desired major.

Fall (September–November)

The college application process follows a well-defined schedule, with specific deadlines for submitting materials. 

Take Standardized Tests

As a junior student, practice standardized tests, such as the PSAT, to prepare for critical exams (including the SAT) that will be required for your applications. Use PSAT practice test to prepare for your SAT exams

You can assess other practice exams including those provided by Khan Academy , and even ask your guidance counselor for beneficial resources . 

Winter (December-February)

Your freshman year winter will center around SATs.

Ensure to revise extensively, and give your best. Some students deliberately avoid studying because they plan to retake the tests another season. You will save a lot of time and money (SAT registrations cost approximately $60 in the U.S.) if you get it right the first time. 

Sit for Your SATs/ACTs

The time has come! Take your SAT/ACT tests for the first time during the winter. Don’t worry if you get disappointing results; it happens to everyone in their initial attempt. 

Identify your mistakes and improve on them. Subsequently, you’ll notice a much better outcome by the time you sit for the test again in spring or fall. 

Take the SAT Subject Tests

Some colleges may require grades from SAT subject tests . Ensure to take the examination immediately after classes while you still have most of the subject material retained, and the results will surpass your expectations.

College applicants should begin preparing their early decision/early action or rolling admission applications as soon as possible. Colleges may require test scores and applications to be submitted between November 1 November 15 for early decision admission.

Applicants should request letters of recommendation from counselors or teachers if needed.

Spring (March-May)

In spring, the final phase of exam season commences before the summer break. Again, make every effort to achieve desirable outcomes. 

Take the AP Exams

In May of each year , the AP exams commence, which provides an incredible opportunity to earn additional credit toward admission to your target colleges. 

Summer (June–August) 

Summer has come! However, don’t use up your free time just relaxing; this is the perfect opportunity to prepare for college. 

Use this time to draft applications, set financial aid plans, research, and prepare for interviews . To draft applications for both admission and financial aid, consult your student guidance counselor for help. 

Draft Your College Application Essay

It’s best to draft your application essay as soon as you can to allow for additional time on studies and exams in your senior year. 

Start the initial draft in the summer of your junior year, and subsequently revise and improve it throughout your senior year. Trust me, you’ll thank me for this!

Prepare for Interviews

Research your desired colleges and check for those that offer optional interviews. Perform an exhaustive analysis of their requirements. Thereafter, conduct a simulated interview with a teacher, friend, or family member, and ensure to document their feedback. 

Prepare Your Recommendation Letters

During the summer break, assess which teachers are willing to put in a good recommendation letter for you. Preferably, they should be from your essential subjects, such as Science, Mathematics, and English. 

Next, give your teachers a summarized list of reasons why you chose them as your recommenders and your perception of your performance in their courses. 

Sort out a Financial Aid Plan

Sit with your family to discuss your financial aid plan for college. Tuition payments can be challenging, and although numerous reasons exist for students dropping out, having a well-thought-out financial strategy can help mitigate financial constraints. 

Therefore, utilize resources such as net price calculators on the websites of prospective colleges and outline all the deadlines you have to meet. 

When applying for financial aid, submit your:

• FAFSA or CSS Profile
• Social Security Number (SSN)
• Tax Returns
• Bank Statements
• Investment Statements
• Other Income Information (if required)
• Records of Untaxed Income
• Records of Business and Farm Assets
• Dependency Documentation
• Selective Service Registration
• Additional Documentation

Apply for Scholarships

Start your scholarship applications early and continue throughout the school year. 

Many seniors apply for a wide range of scholarships (over 30 in some cases) to maximize their opportunities.

To ensure you have a better chance of getting a scholarship than your peers, consider local options and colleges that require admission essays since most students steer clear of those out of fear. 

Documents needed for scholarships vary according to the college and scholarship provider. However, these documents are commonly required:

• Scholarship Application Form
• Academic Transcripts
• Letters of Recommendation
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Personal Statement or Essay
• Proof of Eligibility
• Financial Information
• Standardized Test Scores
• Acceptance Letter or Enrollment Verification
• Other Supporting Documents (including Proof of residency and citizenship status)

Senior Year to Graduation: A Race Against Time

Senior year of high school can be a whirlwind of homework, deadlines, college research, and applications. Stay focused; nevertheless, don’t forget to enjoy the journey. Keep organized, talk to your college counselor, and address financial considerations with your parents. It’s a year of transition, both for students and parents, as you prepare for the next phase of your educational journey.

For many, the senior year can be the busiest when it comes to college applications.

Therefore, it is essential to have drafts of all the requirements needed to submit applications to your target colleges readily available. Retake any tests that you might be dissatisfied with, apply for financial aid, and gather necessary profiles and portfolios . You have no more time to waste!

Submit Early Decision and Action Applications

Consider sending in an early decision application if you’re certain about a specific college. These are typically due in November and you commit to attending the designated college if accepted. 

You’ll get an early decision with early action schools; however, you can wait until the regular decision deposit deadline to make your final decision.

Typically, you need the following documents and information to complete the application process:

• Application Form
• Essays or Personal Statements
• Application Fee or Fee Waiver
• Additional Materials
• Early Decision Agreement
• Financial Aid Forms

Submit Your CSS Profile

You might need to submit the CSS profile in fall if you’re applying early to certain schools, even though you can not fill out the FAFSA(Free Application for Federal Student Aid) until after October 1. Keep this in mind for early applications.

Submit SAT/ACT Score Reports

Send your official SAT and/or ACT score reports together with your application forms, letters of recommendation, essays, and other required documents to the early application schools of your interest

. You can do this through the College Board and ACT Student websites for SAT and ACT, respectively.

Do Early Admission Interviews

Stay confident and relaxed for your early admissions interviews. Some early action/decision schools conduct interviews in the fall. 

Remember, you’ve already prepared by doing your research, thus, these interviews are more about having a friendly conversation rather than stressing you.

Winter (December–February)

Exam season has commenced. Now is the time to retake any tests you might have performed poorly and polish your grades. 

It is a good idea to take SAT subject tests right after you’ve finished the related class during the fall if required by prospective colleges. This way, the material is still fresh in your memory, and you’ll be well-prepared.

Responses from Your Early Applications

Expect feedback by December regarding your admission if you have applied early to your target colleges. 

Similarly, you should receive an estimated financial aid package around the same time if your financial aid forms were submitted early.

Submit Enrollment Deposit (Early Decision)

You might have to submit an enrollment deposit in the winter of your senior year if you filed for early decision and the financial aid offer from the school seems favorable. 

Contact the school and inquire about the potential of a fee waiver if the expense of the deposit worries you.

Submit Applications for Regular Decision Schools

For regular decision applications, most institutions have deadlines between January 1 and March 1 of each year.

Early decision deadlines mean applying to a college earlier and getting an admission decision around December. Unlike regular application, you’re bound to attend if admitted.

Some colleges offer a second early decision deadline in December/January. Compared to early action, both have earlier deadlines and decisions, but early decision is binding, while early action is not.

Here are the common college application materials needed for high school students:

• Additional Materials Supplementary Documents (including Art portfolio and writing samples)

Send Your SAT/ACT Score Reports

Forward your official SAT and ACT score report along with your application forms, letters of recommendation, essays, and other required materials to the regular decision schools you’re applying to. These schools will also need your official test scores. You can send them using the College Board (for SAT) and ACT Student (for ACT) websites.

Do Your Regular Decision Interviews

Approach your regular decision interviews with confidence. Some regular decision schools conduct interviews in the winter. Remember, you’ve already prepared by sitting for other interviews and conducting research hence, approach them with a sense of ease and not apprehension.

Submit Your FAFSA

Complete and send in your FAFSA. It’s crucial for federal financial aid, and you can start submitting it after October 1 during your senior year. 

Many schools prioritize early financial aid applications; therefore, it’s beneficial to submit yours as soon as possible.

Complete and submit the CSS profile or any other school-specific financial aid forms in addition to the FAFSA. These forms help determine your eligibility for financial aid at certain institutions. 

Again, submitting these forms makes you more eligible for aid as some schools allocate aid on a first-come, first-served basis.

In spring, gather all the documents you’ll need for application, registration, financial aid, and scholarships . 

To avoid last-minute stress and potential hurdles, it’s advisable to process all required paperwork well in advance of college entry. 

Revise FAFSA and CSS Profiles

Update your FAFSA and CSS profile applications with the latest information from your tax returns if you initially estimated your financial details. 

Keeping these forms up-to-date with accurate information is essential for determining your financial aid eligibility.

Send in Tax Transcripts

Provide your tax transcripts for verification if requested. Ensure the accuracy of your financial information. 

To do this, you need to send copies of your tax transcripts or those of your parents to the college that has asked for them.

Response from Regular Decision Applications

For regular decision applications, expect to receive your admission decision, which can be an acceptance, rejection, or waitlist , typically in March or April.

Compare Financial Aid Packages

After you’ve been accepted, colleges will provide you with a financial aid package. This package includes loans, work and study options, and grants. 

Compare these financial aid packages with those of other target colleges to determine which one best suits your financial needs.

Apply for Financial Aid Appeal

Don’t hesitate to reach out to the college’s financial aid office to discuss a financial aid appeal in case your family’s financial situation has changed or if a college’s financial aid package doesn’t meet your needs. 

It’s crucial to do this as soon as possible to ensure adjustments to your financial aid package based on your updated circumstances.

You need these documents:

• Financial Aid Appeal Letter
• Supporting Documents (including recent tax returns, documents of unusual expenses, job loss or income reduction documents, changes in family finances, medical records, and death certificates)
• Appeal Form
• Contact Information
• Deadline Information
• Professional Judgment
• Additional Letters of Support

Submit an Enrollment Deposit (Regular Decision)

To secure your spot at a college after receiving a regular decision acceptance, submit your enrollment deposit . The deadline for submission is typically on or before May 1. 

Contact the school and inquire about the possibility of obtaining a fee waiver if you’re concerned about the cost of the deposit.

Sit for AP Exams

Prepare for and take your AP Exams. These exams, offered every May, offer you a chance to earn college credit and showcase your knowledge in advanced subjects.

Summer (June–August)

You’ve made it through high school! Congrats! 

This is your last summer before college starts; therefore, ensure you are well-prepared for the years ahead by familiarizing yourself with every aspect of your chosen college . 

Complete Enrollment

After you’ve finalized the decision on which target college to pursue, stay organized by keeping up with any enrollment paperwork and requirements. 

The college will send you updates regarding scheduling, housing, orientation, and other important details. To guarantee a seamless and trouble-free transition into your college life, ensure to complete all required documentation before deadlines.

Following the aforementioned steps can help prepare you for college years. Good luck!

Full Route Map Throughout the Years

Throughout Your Highschool Years:

• Find and Participate in Extracurricular Activities : Being engaged in extracurricular activities during your freshman year is an excellent method to identify your strengths. As time passes, you can invest more time into the activities you’re good at to develop your skills. 
• Keep Your Grades Up : Does this even need to be said? Your grades are a significant component of your academic profile. They will determine your future studies as a whole. Therefore, prioritize your grades if you want to ensure your college application is worth consideration.
• Take Part in Volunteering and Part-Time Jobs : Take up a new job every summer to explore different career fields. Whether it be dog-walking, cashiering, or even mowing the lawn for my neighbors, each job has the potential to change your perspective about life while also giving you the opportunity to save up for college! In addition, volunteer for community services to polish up your application. 
• Seek Help from All Sources : You’ll be surprised to know how many people around you can give you highly beneficial advice. Sit down with your parents, family members, friends, teachers, or guidance counselor and talk to them about your plans for college and career goals. Take heed of their advice and learn from their own experiences with college.
• Save Up Each and Every Penny : By the time 11th grade rolls in; you’re going to be scampering around to get your fees together. Thus, be responsible with your spending and save up as early as possible. Discussing financial plans with someone knowledgeable, such as parents, guardians, or financial advisors, can be beneficial. For instance, my parents set up a savings account for me so that I could put my earnings into it for tuition. 
• Plan It All Out : Carefully mark the important dates of your college application process on your calendar and highlight the necessary steps to take beforehand. Identify your preferred colleges, their requirements and tuition, and the best time to apply. 

From Your Freshman Year to Junior Year:

• Prepare for the SATs : Starting your SAT preparation in junior year can give you a head start, as many students tend to begin later. Therefore, get ahead by taking full length practice exams of your SATs and/or ACTs and track your results to highlight your weaknesses and strengths. 
• Research Colleges : To learn more about your options, browse the web, speak with college representatives, attend college fairs, and interact with friends and relatives who have graduated or are now enrolled in college. Aside from asking around, visit the college campuses during study break in the fall to understand the environment. It’s essential to consider both the academic and community aspects of a college before making a final decision.
• Make Adjustments to Your Target Colleges : Remember that list of colleges you made at the very beginning of junior year? After you’ve sat for a few tests, it’s good to go back to these targets and make adjustments. Assess your grades and categorize each of your options from “Most Probable” to “Safety Schools” . Furthermore, search for traditional scholarships that are offered to senior year students. 
• Take Your SATs/ACTs : You can take the SATs/ACTs again during spring if you are not satisfied with the initial results. 
• Re-Take the SAT Subject Tests : Again, you’ll have another chance to improve your results by taking the SAT subject tests of relevant classes during spring. Sit for them when you’re confident that you have improved. 
• Visit Target College Campuses : Use your spare time during summer to tour your target colleges. Visit the centers, dormitories, and classes, and feel free to ask teachers and staff questions. Some colleges even offer tour times and Q&A sessions for interested students; you can check out their official websites for more information. 
• Plan out Application Deadline for Target Colleges : Early decision and action applications are usually due in November of senior year. For regular admissions, you’ll typically need to submit your applications between the beginning of January and March. Make use of the Common App , which is accessible in early August and helps to keep track of these deadlines.

From Your Senior Year to Graduation: 

• Take the SAT/ACT : This is the perfect time to take your first or second SAT/ACT tests. Consider retaking the tests if you feel you’ve made significant improvements. Be mindful of costs and potential fee waivers. In case you’re worried about a potential loss, you can request your guidance counselor for a fee waiver. 
• Review Your Application Essays : Sit down with a competent teacher and have them review your essays. Take note of the areas where you need to improve and make corrections based on the feedback. Prepare a final draft before application deadlines. 
• Prepare Recommendation Letters : Give your recommenders the list of reasons why you believe you’ve excelled in their classes and the necessary documents needed for your recommendation letter if you haven’t done it earlier. 
• Gather Your Documents : Ensure you have other materials, such as test score history, essays, and forms, that are needed for application. Have your guidance counselor check your documents to confirm if they are complete.
• Take Loans (If Needed) : You can consider loans as a way to bridge the financial gap if scholarships, work and study options, or grants don’t fully cover the costs. Subsidized federal loans, such as Stafford loans (now commonly referred to as Direct Loans) and Perkins loans, often offer favorable terms and are worth considering. However,  to minimize future debt burdens, borrow only what you need.
• Explore Work and Study Options (If Needed) : Take advantage of work-study opportunities offered by your college if you think other options might not bridge any possible financial gaps. Express your interest in work-study by mentioning it on your FAFSA and contacting your college’s financial aid office. Work-study programs can shoulder your school expenditures while also giving you useful job experience.
• Start Looking for Jobs : Speak with your school’s financial aid office if you’re interested in a work-study program to discover more about your options. It’s a good idea to start your job hunt either in the early fall of your freshman year or throughout the summer before you resume college. You’ll have plenty of time to select a work-study position that complements your schedule and finances

Final Thoughts on College Application Deadlines

This guide will help you feel more confident as you navigate the college application process through appropriate use of the details therein.

Furthermore, prioritize applications to colleges that align with your academic and personal goals, rather than focusing solely on acceptance. 

As you begin your time in college, remember to stay prepared, be loyal to yourself, and enjoy the experience. Buckle up!

Emily Watson

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College Admissions

For many students and their parents, the college application process is a source of tremendous anxiety. Fear not. If you familiarize yourself with this process and devote enough time to it, I’m confident that you’ll be able to make it through unscathed and end up at a quality college.

In this article, we'll go over the college application deadlines you need to know. More importantly, we'll give you a complete college application timeline, detailing what you should be doing at each point in your high school career to ensure that you can submit exceptional college applications.

Overview of the College Application Process

If you want to successfully complete the college application process, meet every college application deadline , and make yourself as competitive for college admission as possible, you will be directly or indirectly working on your college application well before your applications are due . In fact, if you have any intention of applying to selective colleges, this process can really begin as early as your freshman year .

The major components of your application that will be evaluated are your transcript, your standardized test scores, your recommendations, your personal essay, and your extracurricular activities .

In this article, I’ll walk you through an ideal college planning timeline to ensure that you’re able to have every aspect of your final application be as strong as possible . Keep in mind this college application timeline is a recommendation: you may find it makes sense to tackle these steps a little ahead of our suggestions. The thing to keep in mind is that you want to plan ahead. Waiting until the last minute can negatively impact your ability to get into your dream school.

Freshman and Sophomore Years

While you don’t have to seriously think about what colleges you want to apply to before your junior year, your first two years of high school will influence the quality of your college application . Even though there are a few colleges including University of California schools that won’t consider your freshman grades, your sophomore grades will definitely factor into your high school GPA and help determine whether you’re accepted to the college of your choice.

Pay attention to what classes you take .  Selective colleges want to see that you’ve excelled in rigorous classes throughout your high school years . Some high schools are hesitant to allow students to take honors or AP classes in their junior years if they haven’t taken advanced classes in their first two years of high school.

Furthermore, colleges are concerned with how many years you’ve taken core subjects (math, English, science, history, and foreign language). If you don’t take a foreign language or history class in your freshman or sophomore year, you’ll be a less competitive applicant.

Also, make sure you’re involved in extracurricular activities . Colleges like to see that you've committed yourself to your extracurriculars . The student who has excelled in the same extracurricular activity throughout high school is a more impressive applicant than the student who first starts doing an extracurricular in his junior year.

Start studying for the SAT/ACT . Generally, you should start studying for the SAT/ACT in your sophomore year or the summer before your junior year.  We recommend that you take the SAT/ACT for the first time in the fall of your junior year. Start studying early to prepare yourself thoroughly.

Calsidyrose /Flickr  

Fall of Junior Year

The biggest college application deadline you have to meet in your junior year is taking your standardized tests. Universities use test scores as a way to determine whether a student is prepared to succeed at their school. The more competitive the university, the higher your test scores will need to be.  

In the fall of your junior year, you should take the SAT or ACT for the first time. Also, start researching colleges . You don’t need to finalize your list of schools at this point, but if you identify colleges you’re interested in, you’ll have a better sense of what you need to do to make yourself competitive for admission . Additionally, you’ll be able to determine your target score for the SAT or ACT .

Then, you can decide if you need to retake your SAT/ACT , and you can figure out how to improve your score , if need be.

Spring of Junior Year

In the spring of your junior year, you should make a preliminary list of colleges you want to apply to . Use college finders , college search websites , and ranking lists to help you. Having this list will give you ample time to complete all your application requirements and ensure that you can reach your target scores on your standardized tests. Divide your list into reach , target , and safety  schools.

If necessary, retake your SAT or ACT . Ideally, you’ll achieve your target score this time around. Again, make sure you’re prepared .

Finally, you should ask teachers if they’re willing to write recommendation letters for you . If you ask them early, your teachers will have more time to think about them, and you may get better recommendations. Keep in mind that many teachers will be bombarded by students asking for recommendations during your senior year, so be sure to ask early!

Summer Before Senior Year

In the summer before your senior year, try to finalize your list of colleges . This isn't a hard college application deadline, but doing so will make your life a lot easier in the fall! Additionally, make sure you’re familiar with the application requirements for each school. That way you'll be ready to start your applications as soon as possible. 

If you still need to take the SAT or ACT to reach your target score, do some intense studying over the summer .

Also, start thinking about and preparing for your college application essays .  Come up with ideas and write first drafts . The more you do over the summer, the less you'll have to worry about during the school year .

Fall of Senior Year

Most likely, the fall of your senior year will be rather busy. In the fall, you have to make sure your college applications are ready, so there are lots of college application deadlines you need to be aware of.

First, formally ask for recommendations early in the semester . Don’t wait until one week before your application deadlines to ask. Teachers who are too busy or inundated with recommendation requests may decline to write your letters or will be unable to write you a good recommendation at the last minute.

Next, polish your college essays . College essays take much more time than you think. Even though the essay isn’t that long, writing a great college essay can be time-consuming . Again, there's no hard deadline for getting these done, but we recommend you finish your essays one to two months before your application is due. That way you have time to revise, revise, revise! 

To make sure you're knocking your essays out of the park, write multiple drafts, and if possible, allow your teachers and counselors to review your essays and offer advice. For years, I spent many hours helping procrastinating students revise college essays the night before their applications were due. I'm having painful flashbacks. Let's proceed to the actual, hard-and-fast college application deadlines you need to know about. 

Typically, early decision and early action applications are due by November 15. If you apply early, the Oct. or Nov. SAT/ACT will most likely be your last chance to take the test. Early applicants are usually notified by early December regarding admissions decisions.

For most colleges, regular decision application deadlines are January 1st , but some popular colleges have earlier deadlines. For example, the deadline for University of California applications is the end of November. Be aware of the deadlines for all the schools on your list.

Make sure that you have submitted all necessary applications, forms, and score reports. Make a checklist for each school of what you need to submit . Luckily, your life may be easier because more colleges are using the Common Application or the Coalition Application .

If you still need to take the SAT/ACT, do some quality studying and take the test in time so you can get your scores to the colleges . For most schools, the December tests will be your last opportunity, but a few colleges will allow you to submit scores from January or February.

If you need financial aid, begin working on the financial aid process . Each college has its own financial aid requirements. Check the school’s website and financial aid office for requirements and deadlines for financial aid. If you want to be eligible for financial aid, make sure you complete the FAFSA . Become knowledgeable about financial aid and explore all your options to pay for college.

Spring of Senior Year

You'll hear about your regular decision applications by late March or early April . Hopefully, you'll be accepted by multiple colleges.

Continue researching the colleges that accept you to choose the college that will be best for you . If you applied for financial aid, the colleges that accepted you will give you their financial aid offers shortly after they accept you.

You can use the financial aid packages to determine how much you’ll have to pay for each school and factor that into your college decision.  Typically, you have to decide which school you’ll attend by May 1 .

Special Message to the Procrastinators

The college application timeline I’ve given you is ideal for maximizing the quality of your application and minimizing stress . Admittedly, many students don’t begin thinking about the college application process until the fall of their senior year. Some of these students are still able to successfully complete all of their applications and attend the college of their dreams.

However, I think every student benefits from sticking to the college application timeline I laid out. I know students who were unable to submit applications on time because they waited too long to start writing their essays. I know students who severely limited their college options because they didn’t do enough college research. Also, the majority of students I’ve worked with could have done better on their standardized tests if they had given themselves more time to study .

Furthermore, you’ll be busy with school and extracurricular activities during your senior year. If you don’t start contemplating the application process until the fall of your senior year, you’re likely to feel overwhelmed given all of your other responsibilities. If you devote more time to this process earlier, it will be easier and you'll be more likely to accomplish your goals.

What's Next?

Do you need more information to successfully stick to this college application timeline? We've got tons of other guides and resources to help you plan.

If you're struggling to find extracurricular activities, learn about the 3 best extracurricular activities for your college application .

Are you starting to work on your college essay? Make sure you know how to write a great college essay .

Finally, to help you stay on track, review the important college application deadlines you can't miss .

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

Justin has extensive experience teaching SAT prep and guiding high school students through the college admissions and selection process. He is firmly committed to improving equity in education and helping students to reach their educational goals. Justin received an athletic scholarship for gymnastics at Stanford University and graduated with a BA in American Studies.

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The Ultimate College Application Timeline: From Search to Acceptance

The college application process can be incredibly stressful. From campus tours to letters of recommendation to essays, you have a lot to keep track of. With so much to do, it’s hard to know where or when to start!

To make sure you’re on the right path, we’ve created the ultimate college application timeline. Through junior and senior year, follow along with our comprehensive blog and printable timeline to make sure you successfully go from college search to acceptance!

Junior Year

September – January

• Attend college fairs. Virtual or in-person, college fairs can be a great place to acclimate to the college search process. Here’s our guide on making the most of college fairs.
• Begin test prep and take the PSAT. If you haven’t already taken it, now’s the time. College Board , the host of the PSATs, has your prepping needs covered.
• The SAT is generally offered March-June and October-December. Get a rundown of the SAT basics here.
• The ACT is offered February-December. Learn more and sign up on the official ACT website.
• Not sure which to take? Here’s our quick comparison of the SAT and ACT.

March – June

• Take the Niche College Quiz. After you’re done taking our quiz , visit your suggested schools’ profiles and research those you’re interested in.
• Make your list of colleges. Start with 15-20 schools— including safety, target and reach schools —for now and narrow them down later. To start adding colleges to your list , consider factors like location , tuition, reputation, size, selectivity, and if the school has a strong program for your intended major (if you know it yet).
• Attend campus visits and/or information sessions. Colleges can seem like a dream on paper, but there’s not always the same feeling once you get there. When you visit, get a feel for academic offerings, campus layout, dining options, dorm situation and social scene. To make the most of your visits, plan them properly . If you can’t go in-person, explore virtual visit options.
• Explore possible majors. For some, this is a simple feat. For others, it’s simply nerve wracking. There are many factors to consider when choosing a major.
• Prepare for and take the SAT/ACT. Know all the tips and tricks before you show up on test day. We’ve got plenty of suggestions for proper test prep to help you earn your ideal score. If you don’t like your score, set a new goal, hit the books, and try again in the fall—or superscore it . Still need help? There are more test prep resources.
• Keep your grades up (or bring them up). Junior year grades are the most closely analyzed by college admissions teams. Give that extra effort so you’re putting your best academic self out there.
• Ask for teacher/counselor letters of recommendation. Ideally, ask your junior year teachers or, if you know your intended major, a teacher who teaches a relevant subject. We have some pointers for getting counselor recs , too. Ask weeks, if not months, ahead of time. Here are all the details you should consider when asking for a letter of recommendation.

• Get summer experience. Spend your summer wisely by volunteering, getting a job, job shadowing , or participating in a summer college program or camp. Your best bet to impress schools is to do something relevant to your interests, skills or goals.
• Brainstorm ideas for your personal essay , AKA personal statement or Common App essay. This is your time to share something about yourself to your prospective universities. Get the creative juices flowing.
• Talk with parents or guardians about who’s paying for college and how. It can be a touchy subject, but it’s best to hash out the financial responsibilities before you get too far along in your search. Work your way through our financial aid checklist for the most productive convos.
• Start researching scholarships. A good place to get started? Niche’s list of college scholarships , of course.
• Get your FSA ID. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid ( FAFSA ) determines your eligibility for student financial aid. Even if you think your family won’t qualify, submit a FAFSA. Create a username and password (FSA ID) on the FAFSA website to get started. The first day you can file is Oct. 1.
• Narrow down your list of colleges.
• Make an activities/honors list. As you begin filling out college and scholarship applications, a high school resume will be extremely helpful . List your activities, accomplishments, awards, volunteer work, and actual work experience from ninth grade until now. Mention the tasks you accomplished, skills you gained and/or leadership roles you held. Creating an all-purpose brag sheet can also help you prep for your personal essay, scholarship apps, alumni interviews and more.
• Draft your personal essay. It goes without saying that writing an essay can be challenging. For a little inspo and insight, check out our guide to acing the college essay.
• Create necessary application accounts (Ex: Common App, Coalition App, ApplyTexas, UC Application). Each application account serves different universities, so do some research to see which application is accepted by your potential colleges.
• Understand what types of admissions deadlines you’ll face. Admissions types and deadlines greatly affect your approach to applying. Know whether you’re interested in applying early action, early decision, restricted early action or regular decision (most common). Not sure? We can help you decide which admissions types best fit you.

Senior Year

• Follow up with recommenders. Follow our guide to reminding your recommenders and you’ll have your letters of recommendation in no time.
• Continue narrowing down your list of colleges. Trim your list down to the 5-10 colleges that you love the most. Be strategic: Choose at least two safety schools, several target schools, and one or two reach schools.
• Retake the SAT/ACT (if needed). If you weren’t happy with your previous SAT score, now is the time to take it again.
• Complete your CSS Profile, if required by any of your schools. Here’s the most up-to-date list of schools that require a CSS profile. And here are all the ins and outs on how to create a CSS Profile—and why.
• If applying to a University of California (UC) school, draft your early application. UC deadlines are earlier than most. All apps are due Nov. 30.
• Keep researching and applying for scholarships. Explore 5 scholarships you can apply to right now. No joke.
• Complete and submit your FAFSA. Submit your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) as close to Oct. 1 as possible. You’ll need a lot of financial docs, and we give the whole rundown in our comprehensive FAFSA guide.
• Finish your personal essay and activities list.
• Draft college-specific supplemental essays. For more essay-writing insight, explore these tips on writing supplemental essays. If you’re applying early decision/early action, finish them now.
• Submit early application/early decision applications. Most early application/early decision deadlines are Nov. 1 or Nov. 15. The Common Application early decision deadline is typically Nov. 1.
• Ask your school counselor to send your transcripts. Protocol varies at each high school, but you’ll want to request them at least two weeks before they’re due. For the whole spiel, check our comprehensive guide on requesting transcripts for college.
• If applying to a UC school, finalize your supplemental essay.
• If applying to a UC school, submit your application. The deadline is Nov. 30.
• Finalize college list. Hear a student’s perspective on how to tackle and trim down your college list.
• Edit supplemental essays.
• Search and apply for more scholarships. Consider this your friendly reminder!
• Send test scores to your schools. You can choose your score recipients before or after you take the test. Here’s how to submit your SAT scores. And here’s how to submit your ACT scores.
• Review early decision/early action acceptance letters. If accepted, celebrate! If deferred, send a letter of continued interest. If rejected, review your application and its essay, and decide whether to make improvements for future applications.
• Finalize your supplemental essays.
• Submit your regular decision applications. Before you do: Read our last-minute reminders. Most regular decision deadlines are Jan.1 or Jan. 15. The Common Application deadline is typically Jan. 1. After hitting “submit,” there are still a few things to wrap up.

January – February

• Submit mid-year grade reports. Some colleges require mid-year or second semester grade reports. If this is the case, make sure your counselor has the necessary forms.
• Prepare for and complete alumni/admissions interviews. Do all the prepwork for a successful interview , including how to navigate a virtual interview.
• Apply for more scholarships. The internet is your friend—most of the time. Here are really easy and inventive ways to use Google to fuel your scholarship search.

March – April

• If deferred/waitlisted, reach out and write a letter of continued interest.
• If rejected, send an appeal letter.
• Review financial aid packages. If you need help understanding the lingo, we’ve got a simple explainer on how to read your financial aid award letter . If you’re happy with their offers, great! If you’re not, you may want to appeal for a better package.
• Decide on your top schools.
• Study for and take AP exams. It could help with earning college credit ahead of time. Learn more about how AP exams could benefit you.
• Apply for more scholarships.
• Make a final decision by May 1. Yes! You did it. After you notify your school (and let the others know you’re heading elsewhere), it’s time to celebrate!
• Notify your supporters of your decision—and thank them! They’ll be so happy for you. A note, a gift, a high five—just let them know you appreciate their support. Here’s a rundown of all the people you should be thanking.

Download The Ultimate College Application Timeline PDF!

Author: Lissett Bohannon

Lissett Bohannon earned her BS in Psychology from the University of Idaho and her Masters in Education from UT Austin. She has worked at every level of education from teaching first grade to working in higher ed at UT Austin. The majority of her experience and passion lies in her work as a high school counselor. In January 2020, she started a social media platform “ThatSchoolCounselor” to help students navigate their journey through high school and plan for their future. With over 120K followers on TikTok and over 97 million views on her hashtag #thatschoolcounselor, she reaches students at a national level. She is currently enjoying her role as the Niche School Counselor and resides with her family in Austin, TX

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College Admissions Timeline: A Roadmap for 9th-12th Grade

By Emily Gunter

October 19, 2020

High school is a busy time, and it can be a challenge to find the time to prepare for college admissions. In addition to juggling extracurriculars and difficult classes and preparing for tests, teenagers are also expected to make major life decisions about their career path and where to attend college. That’s a lot of pressure for someone so young!

While students do not typically start working on college applications until the summer before senior year of high school, the college prep journey ought to begin as early as 9th grade.

It’s important for students to understand colleges’ admissions requirements early on in high school so that they can plan accordingly. Parents should talk to their students about college early on in high school so that they can set clear expectations and provide needed support along the way.

Colleges often require that students take certain courses, obtain high test scores, and maintain a moderate to high grade point average.

To help you stay on track, we’ve mapped out the college admissions timeline by each grade level to help guide you through the entire process.

College Planning Seminars

Every year we provide our current students with college planning seminars for each grade level. During these events, we provide in-depth information about each step in the college prep process and answer common questions. We encourage both parents and students to attend these events because they include practical guidance that can help both parties as they progress through the journey to college.

Our current families can attend these events at no additional cost. To find out how to register for these events, contact a director at your home campus.

College Admissions Timeline for 9th Grade

• Take challenging classes – Competitive colleges like those in the Ivy League like to see that students take the most difficult classes they can while in college. Students should choose courses that will challenge them and help them prepare for college courses covering similar subjects.
• Join sports, clubs, or other student organizations
• Introduce yourself to your school counselor
• Get involved in your community
• Take the PSAT 8/9 Test
• Start exploring potential career paths
• Attend summer prep classes for the PSAT, ACT®, and SAT® tests
• Start researching colleges
• Go on college visits (virtual or in person)

College Admissions Timeline for 10th Grade

• Take challenging classes
• Stay engaged with your extracurriculars
• Discuss goals with your school counselor
• Continue preparing for the PSAT, ACT®, and SAT® tests
• Take the PSAT 10 test
• Focus on your grades
• Build relationships with your teachers
• Volunteer or find your first job
• Start building your college resume
• Take practice tests
• Go on college visits
• Take SAT® Subject Tests
• Starting thinking about what your major will be
• Attend a college summer course or camp

College Admissions Timeline for 11th Grade

• Take the PSAT test
• Identify who will write your letters of recommendation
• Take the SAT and ACT tests
• Start building your college list
• Pursue leadership roles in your extracurriculars
• Attend college fairs/info sessions
• Stay on track by meeting with your school counselor
• Retake SAT and ACT tests
• Hire a college counselor for admissions guidance
• Volunteer, work, and continue to add depth to your resume
• Take AP® Tests
• Ask teachers and school counselor for letters of recommendation
• Have a serious talk with your parents about how you’ll pay for college
• Get a head start on your college applications. APPLY NOW! Boot Camps can help.
• Start writing your college application essays
• Finalize your college list
• Find a job or internship related to your field of study

College Admissions Timeline for 12th Grade

Fall semester.

• Decide if you’ll apply Early Decision or Early Action
• Find out if you are a National Merit® Semifinalist
• Stay ahead of your application deadlines
• Fill out the FAFSA® with your parents (Opens Oct. 1)
• Tell your school where to send your transcripts
• Edit and perfect your application essays
• Apply for scholarships
• Finalize and submit your college applications. Make sure to avoid these common mistakes .
• Schedule and prepare for college interviews (if applicable)

Spring Semester

• Finish strong! Aim to get your best grades yet.
• Follow any additional instructions you receive from colleges
• Check the mail for acceptance letters and scholarship offers
• Review scholarship offers and financial aid awards
• Make your final college decision
• Complete next steps to finalize your acceptance
• Accept financial aid awards and make decisions about housing
• Graduate from high school
• Celebrate this major milestone!
• Thank everyone who helped you along the way!

Need advice for preparing for college?

We know it takes a lot of hard work to get into the college of your dreams. Luckily, you don’t have to go through it alone.

KD College Prep has helped more than 65,000 students expand their college opportunities through improved test scores and expert college admissions advice.

We offer test prep and college counseling programs to help guide your family through every step of the college admissions process. Contact us to find out how to get started.

Emily Gunter is a marketing and communications specialist at KD College Prep.

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“When I first started KD, I had zero SAT® experience. The summer lessons helped me build my foundation and I really started to see a boost in my scores after taking numerous workshops throughout the school year to build on that foundation. Without KD, I don't think I would have the motivation to consistently study for the SAT (test). In the beginning, every time I saw a KD email, I'd remember to sign up for a workshop and practice test for the weekend. Then, it became a habit to go to KD on Saturday mornings. Going to these workshops and taking practice tests consistently helped me get exposed to every question on the SAT (test) for math. Therefore, I was hardly ever surprised to... Read more...

“When I first started KD, I had zero SAT® experience. The summer lessons helped me build my foundation and I really started to see a boost in my scores after taking numerous workshops throughout the school year to build on that... Read more...

Meenakshi S. – Class of 2024

“My wife and I wanted to thank you profusely for working with (our daughter). She picked Texas A&M, and we are all delighted with the decision. We have visited the college a couple of times and feel it was the right choice for us... We appreciate your patience with her. She could not have gotten here without your help.”

“My wife and I wanted to thank you profusely for working with (our daughter). She picked Texas A&M, and we are all delighted with the decision. We have visited the college a couple of times and feel it was the right... Read more...

Arun K. – Daughter, Class of 2023

“KD College Prep has offered me multiple resources, makes the effort to craft comprehensive courses, and personalizes instruction that is adjustable to my schedule.”

Quynh T. – Class of 2023

“Ethan is a National Merit Finalist, so he received scholarship opportunities from a number of universities based on his National Merit status, including the University of Houston, where he will be attending tuition-free. He also scored an almost perfect SAT® score (1560), thanks in part to his preparation with KD College Prep.”

“Ethan is a National Merit Finalist, so he received scholarship opportunities from a number of universities based on his National Merit status, including the University of Houston, where he will be attending tuition-free. He also scored an almost perfect SAT® score... Read more...

C.J. S. – Son, Class of 2023

“This was perfect for our son! He needed the structure to get organized to study and did better than expected!”

Hillary B. – Son, Class of 2023

“KD has been very useful for me and has helped me become a better test taker. I don’t think I could’ve gotten the score I got without the countless hours I put in attending workshops, taking tests, and attending reviews.”

Samarth S. – Class of 2023

“Taking KD College Prep has been one of my best choices in high school! All of the instructors definitely know their stuff and teach an extremely useful curriculum in an engaging and efficient manner. I recommend KD to anyone looking to learn more or maximize their scores!”

“Taking KD College Prep has been one of my best choices in high school! All of the instructors definitely know their stuff and teach an extremely useful curriculum in an engaging and efficient manner. I recommend KD to anyone looking to... Read more...

Preston King – Class of 2023

“Overall, it was a good experience. It instilled the discipline to focus on test preparation through workshops and assignments. The review of each test was also very helpful.”

Sajitha N. – Daughter, Class of 2023

“Honestly, was really, really solid. Doing the program the summer before junior year — and I only did the one — actually got me a lot of experience and review of technical skills needed for the SAT® test. I only had to do it once because I got to relearn those pesky algebra skills that I forgot through the program.”

“Honestly, was really, really solid. Doing the program the summer before junior year — and I only did the one — actually got me a lot of experience and review of technical skills needed for the SAT®... Read more...

Katya G. – Class of 2023

“Working with KD was incredible! I truly enjoyed how experienced the counselors were and how deeply they cared about their students. I would recommend KD and especially their college prep plan to everyone who is looking to get professional college admissions advice!”

“Working with KD was incredible! I truly enjoyed how experienced the counselors were and how deeply they cared about their students. I would recommend KD and especially their college prep plan to everyone who is looking to get professional college admissions... Read more...

Ananya A. – Class of 2023

“Our son, Joseph, is our fifth child to go through the KD College Prep program and our fourth National Merit Finalist. He had another test prep program available to him through his private high school but chose KD because he felt like it made the biggest difference in his scores in the least amount of time. He found the program easy to follow and adapt to his strengths and weaknesses. As parents, we cannot say enough good things about the KD program and would recommend it to anyone looking to improve their scores and earn scholarship dollars!”

“Our son, Joseph, is our fifth child to go through the KD College Prep program and our fourth National Merit Finalist. He had another test prep program available to him through his private high school but chose KD because he felt... Read more...

Ellyn A. – Parent of 5 KD Students

“My daughter completed your program in the Plano location. In the fall, she is headed to Colorado School of Mines to study engineering. I asked her if KD had helped her with the SAT® and ACT® tests. She said they helped her know how to manage her time while taking the test as that is a huge aspect to the test.”

“My daughter completed your program in the Plano location. In the fall, she is headed to Colorado School of Mines to study engineering. I asked her if KD had helped her with the SAT® and ACT® tests. She said they helped... Read more...

Julie M. – Daughter, Class of 2022

“(I wanted) help with writing essays and getting into my dream colleges. (I was most concerned with) keeping up with everything I have to do and meeting all the deadlines. The constant and honest feedback about my essays regardless is what I really appreciated. There was a time that writing essays just clicked, and it was much easier after that.”

“(I wanted) help with writing essays and getting into my dream colleges. (I was most concerned with) keeping up with everything I have to do and meeting all the deadlines. The constant and honest feedback about my essays regardless is what... Read more...

Neha C. – Class of 2022

“It’s hard to believe we are finally done at KD Prep with our three children. We are incredibly grateful to you for all of your support over the years, which undoubtedly helped each of our children realize their college dreams. All three were accepted to colleges with single digit admission rates. Our eldest was selected as a National Merit® Finalist and was able to apply to colleges with a perfect SAT® score. Our other two were both named National African American Recognition Scholars and National Merit Commended Scholar. One of them applied to college in 2020 with an SAT score of 1520 (780 math and 740 verbal) and the youngest scored 1500 on the October 2021 SAT test (720 verbal and 780 math). Our... Read more...

“It’s hard to believe we are finally done at KD Prep with our three children. We are incredibly grateful to you for all of your support over the years, which undoubtedly helped each of our children realize their college dreams. All... Read more...

Nike A. – Parent of 3 KD Students

“Obviously SAT® test prep was NOT fun. The experience was difficult and exhausting, but learning through KD definitely made the experience much less stressful and definitely easier. It's a great system with tons of resources all aimed to give you what you need and more to reach whatever score range you set as your goal (I was able to get a 1540). My favorite part though, specifically with the Coppell campus, was the people! Everyone was so incredibly nice and always in impossibly good moods. It was a great environment to learn and improve in!”

“Obviously SAT® test prep was NOT fun. The experience was difficult and exhausting, but learning through KD definitely made the experience much less stressful and definitely easier. It's a great system with tons of resources all aimed to give you what... Read more...

Alex N. – Class of 2023

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping me get the score I needed to receive over $464,000 in scholarships, including two full rides. I started the program the summer going into my junior year. I had an excellent GPA but struggled on standardized tests. Taking the test prep classes throughout junior year and taking practice tests got me more prepared each time I took the test. I achieved my best score the summer going into my senior year. That score allowed me to apply to my top schools as soon as early decision opened. I am so grateful to Karen Dillard and the extra practice and proctored exams! My parents are grateful too—for the small investment they got a great return.”

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping me get the score I needed to receive over $464,000 in scholarships, including two full rides. I started the program the summer going into my junior year. I had an excellent GPA... Read more...

Saadia P. – Class of 2022

“I really enjoyed KD because the teachers helped me look at the SAT® test in a whole new angle. I really began analyzing the test and learned how to work math and reading problems in a smarter way, which was really helpful. I also really appreciated all the varied practice and detailed breakdowns from instructors, helping me see not just what answer was correct but why those answers were correct.”

“I really enjoyed KD because the teachers helped me look at the SAT® test in a whole new angle. I really began analyzing the test and learned how to work math and reading problems in a smarter way, which was really... Read more...

Pranathi P. – Class of 2022

“KD had a very streamlined process of learning the ins and outs of the reading and grammar part of the SAT® test as well as a very well-structured mathematics process that went through the subjects of algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus in depth. Another great part of the KD experience was the wonderful staff giving me so many useful tips and strategies for the areas that I was specifically struggling with. The staff understands students have different strengths and weaknesses, and the fact that they tailor the info they give to each student is very useful. Overall, KD has helped me not only with SAT preparation but also with my normal school work.”

“KD had a very streamlined process of learning the ins and outs of the reading and grammar part of the SAT® test as well as a very well-structured mathematics process that went through the subjects of algebra, geometry, and pre-calculus in... Read more...

Armaan C. – Class of 2023

“I am very grateful that KD was able to offer so many resources and guides for the SAT® and PSAT tests. They really helped me get a good grasp on the types of questions that the SAT exam tested on, and I was able to get a really good score the first time I took it! Once again, thank you KD, and I would recommend it to anyone who is looking to earn a high SAT score.”

“I am very grateful that KD was able to offer so many resources and guides for the SAT® and PSAT tests. They really helped me get a good grasp on the types of questions that the SAT exam tested on, and... Read more...

Sri Vamsi Krishna Putti – Class of 2023, Frisco ISD

“My husband and I are so impressed with your course and the quality of guidance that you provide. It feels like you really want our son to succeed. Thank you!”

Debra H. – Son, Class of 2023

“KD taught me so many useful strategies for the SAT® & PSAT/NMSQT® tests. They helped me improve my SAT score by over 400 points, and I got done with the SAT test at the beginning of 11th grade! I would recommend KD to anyone who wants a highly competitive SAT score. ”

“KD taught me so many useful strategies for the SAT® & PSAT/NMSQT® tests. They helped me improve my SAT score by over 400 points, and I got done with the SAT test... Read more...

Praneel S. – Class of 2023

“My time and experiences at KD College Prep have efficiently guided and prepared me for my future educational career as a college student. Not only did KD help me with college entrance exams but also provided numerous informational seminars that helped me with the various steps required for college admissions. At KD I enjoyed learning from amazing teachers, who cared for each of their students individually and were ready to help wherever it was needed. Being a student at KD has also helped me figure out which learning techniques work best for me. The opportunity to engage in different learning methods such as small group interactive learning, larger group discussions, or individual practice are all ways that helped me come up with a learning... Read more...

“My time and experiences at KD College Prep have efficiently guided and prepared me for my future educational career as a college student. Not only did KD help me with college entrance exams but also provided numerous informational seminars that helped... Read more...

Tanisha P. – Class of 2020

“ My feedback can only be positive, given how much you helped me get ahead with my application process. I really appreciated how much work both of you put into helping me write the best essay possible, especially reviewing my essays twice to polish them completely. In addition, I have noticed that writing my resume has released a lot of stress off my shoulder when it comes to making sure I have all the things necessary to apply to schools. ”

“ My feedback can only be positive, given how much you helped me get ahead with my application process. I really appreciated how much work both of you put into... Read more...

Claudia A. – Class of 2020

“My favorite things about KD were the mirroring it had to actual test questions, the availability, and the relationships you built with all the teachers and advisors who made the process of learning easier. I think that after you started going to a good amount of classes and the workshops, you knew every teacher, and they were always available to answer any questions that you had...Everyone was just so welcoming and made learning more engaging for the students, especially with the workshops. All of had their own unique style of teaching which never made a class boring.”

“My favorite things about KD were the mirroring it had to actual test questions, the availability, and the relationships you built with all the teachers and advisors who made the process of... Read more...

Rishab P. – Class of 2021

“I want to thank both of you so very much for making this dream come true. When I first came to KD, I wanted to get a score of 1520 or above... So many people told me it would be impossible to reach my desired score. After months of using KD's methods my scores definitely improved but hovered around 1350—still not near the score I needed but closer. After finally working with both of you during one on ones, my scores started to see heavy improvement and while I didn't get a score of 1520 or above as a single score, I got it as a  superscore ... Read more...

“I want to thank both of you so very much for making this dream come true. When I first came to KD, I wanted to get a score of 1520 or... Read more...

David P. – Class of 2022

“It takes a village to raise a child—this is so true. KD College Prep staff have been nothing but uplifting to my child and to us parents through their eager attitudes to assist, in-depth guidance and unparalleled wisdom. I am in awe at the consistent level of professionalism yet genuine concern for each and every person that walks through their doors. Thank you KD staff for being great mentors for our children!”

“It takes a village to raise a child—this is so true. KD College Prep staff have been nothing but uplifting to my child and to us parents through their eager attitudes to assist, in-depth guidance and unparalleled wisdom. I am in... Read more...

Gloria D. – Daughter, Class of 2021

“I attended KD for the last 3 years, and I was blessed with the opportunity to take the SAT ® test one last time last month. I got a 1430 on the test. I wanted to take the time to say I have finished college applications, and I would love to thank all the teachers and aides at KD for giving me the score that I got on the test. Without the extra practice, I wouldn't have been able to get through to the score I got. These past 3 years went by so fast, and it is so fun to look back at where I started and how much I have come out with flying colors. Thank you so much!”

“I attended KD for the last 3 years, and I was blessed with the opportunity to take the SAT ® test one last time last month. I got a 1430 on the test. I wanted to take the time to say I... Read more...

Kareena A. – Class of 2021

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“I just wanted to say thank you to KD for all the help and support you’ve given over the past couple years! I was able to get the scores I wanted for the PSAT, SAT ® , and ACT ® tests. The resources were... Read more...

Advika R. – Class of 2022

“I shifted toward taking practice tests and going to workshops because I felt those were the best ways to apply the concepts (I was) learning in class. I started applying the tips and tricks that the teachers were showing me in class. In conjunction, those two things helped me raise my score a lot because I was not a math kid before KD or high school. The repetition and being able to practice in a non-stressful environment and simulating that testing experience is something that was very beneficial for me... “The college counseling team was super patient and honest about the work I was submitting. I know for a lot of kids, it’s hard to articulate who you are through 250-300 words. It was definitely... Read more...

“I shifted toward taking practice tests and going to workshops because I felt those were the best ways to apply the concepts (I was) learning in class. I started applying the tips and tricks that the teachers were showing me in... Read more...

Blaine W. – Class of 2021

“Both of my sons have been guided by KD College Prep counselor Steve Peifer on their journey to finding the right college for them, and we could not have had a better experience and outcome. My oldest son is now a rising junior at the University of Miami, and my youngest son is an incoming freshman at Vanderbilt University. Steve’s help in navigating the complicated college landscape and finding the BEST FIT for my two sons is what has made this resource invaluable. “What made the biggest difference for my two sons was the depth and breadth of knowledge Steve has of the many universities and colleges in the U.S. First, by getting to know my kids on a one-on-one basis, he was able to... Read more...

“Both of my sons have been guided by KD College Prep counselor Steve Peifer on their journey to finding the right college for them, and we could not have had a better experience and outcome. My oldest son is now a... Read more...

Julio M. – Parent

“My daughter loved the program—the program materials and the teachers both online and in person. She participated in a year of online and a year of in person. It was incredible enrichment and helped her keep her skills sharp over the summer. She liked being challenged academically, and she loved taking classes with high school students who were focused on their college goals. These students were also excellent role models! The lessons were especially important during the pandemic when it wasn’t a typical middle school experience.”

“My daughter loved the program—the program materials and the teachers both online and in person. She participated in a year of online and a year of in person. It was incredible enrichment and helped her keep her skills sharp over the... Read more...

Beth L. – Advanced Start™ Parent

“I wanted to say thank you to all of the teachers and directors at KD for helping me get a great score on the SAT ® test. I started with a 1250 on the first KD test I took, and I got a 1530 on the December 5th SAT test. KD played a huge role in this, and I just wanted to say thanks to everyone there for helping me achieve this.”

“I wanted to say thank you to all of the teachers and directors at KD for helping me get a great score on the SAT ® test. I started with a 1250 on the first KD test I took, and I got... Read more...

Vyom S. – Class of 2022

"Our twin 16-year-old boys used KD College Prep to study/practice for the PSAT test, and we believe the classes and coaching were invaluable. Very professional and concise. Worth every penny!"

Jerry – Sons, Class of 2022

“I'm writing to thank the KD team for all the help and guidance over the last couple of years! All the resources provided were very useful to me and helped me achieve the scores I was aiming for on the PSAT, SAT ® , and ACT ® tests (1520, 1580, and 34). I really appreciate everyone's willingness to be flexible and accommodate my requests!”

“I'm writing to thank the KD team for all the help and guidance over the last couple of years! All the resources provided were very useful to me and helped me achieve the scores I was aiming for on the PSAT,... Read more...

Mithra A. – Class of 2022

"The resources that KD offers have greatly prepared me for the college admissions process. Without KD, I would not have been this prepared and confident... I am a rising senior, and I ended up receiving a 1570 on my SAT ® test (third time) and a 35 on my ACT® test (first time). I remember the first ever practice test I took for the SAT test was a 1230 (about 1.5 yrs ago) and the first ever practice test I took for the ACT test was a 31 or 32 (about 6 months ago)."

"The resources that KD offers have greatly prepared me for the college admissions process. Without KD, I would not have been this prepared and confident... I am a rising senior, and I ended up receiving a 1570 on my SAT ® test... Read more...

Elise P. – Class of 2022

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping both of my kids over the last years reach successful outcomes on their SAT ® and ACT ® scores, which helped them get into great colleges. I found the college prep class for parents very informative and helpful during the process as well.  My son (Jacob) graduated in 2018 and got a 32 on the ACT test. got accepted into Texas A&M but chose Baylor for Health Sciences.  My daughter (Morgan) graduated in 2020 and got a 1450 on the SAT test and a 32 on the ACT test. got into an Ivy League school (Cornell) for Engineering.  Both my kids say that they apply the test taking skills they learned at KD Prep to... Read more...

“I want to thank KD College Prep for helping both of my kids over the last years reach successful outcomes on their SAT ® and ACT ® scores, which helped them get into great colleges. I found the college prep class for parents... Read more...

Jon D. – Parent

“Coming into this whole process, I had absolutely no idea what anything was, and your help was invaluable—your encouraging words, strategic advice, and wholesome stories and jokes really got me through a stressful time! I'm still on the waitlist at Harvard and other schools, but I've really started to immerse into the Emory culture, especially their debate team. Not having to pay for college and still attend a private institution is really a dream come true, and it wouldn't be possible if it were not for you.”

“Coming into this whole process, I had absolutely no idea what anything was, and your help was invaluable—your encouraging words, strategic advice, and wholesome stories and jokes really got me through a stressful time! I'm still on the waitlist at Harvard... Read more...

Shreyas R. – Class of 2020

“The most beneficial guidance I received during my College Counseling experience was being taught that it's completely ok to not know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old. Steve told me that a good school will help me find my path. Also, Steve's knowledge about what colleges were wanting to see in potential admissions candidates was a huge help... “There was not one specific beneficial moment or turning point in my time working with Steve, there were many. He encouraged me during the entire application process and brought to my attention many colleges I wouldn't have considered or heard about without his help.”

“The most beneficial guidance I received during my College Counseling experience was being taught that it's completely ok to not know what I want to do with the rest of my life at 17/18 years old. Steve told me that a... Read more...

Jake W. – Class of 2020

"I'm very happy my daughter chose KD as her learning partner to achieve her goals. All the experiences with KD and the Directors there are fabulous. My daughter has improved significantly."

Zarni, Daughter – Class of 2021

"I took KD classes the summer before my junior year, and I was finished with my SAT ® test by December...The test prep classes also helped me earn the award of National Merit ® Finalist."

Claire I. – Class of 2020

"It's been super helpful, and I've noticed my scores go up both on my SAT ® /ACT ® scores as well as test scores in school... Overall, I believe this to be the best college prep that money can buy."

Gopi C. – Class of 2021

"KD helped me come up with a game plan for the colleges I wanted to attend, as well as any backups, and how to manage my time during this stressful period. They helped to ease the stress and made sure that I would be successful in whichever college I picked, and I am eternally grateful for all their help and hard work!"

"KD helped me come up with a game plan for the colleges I wanted to attend, as well as any backups, and how to manage my time during this stressful period. They helped to ease the stress and made... Read more...

Omar S. – Class of 2020

"My initial goals when I first started working with the KD Counseling crew was to compile a list of colleges that I would be somewhat interested in attending and fit my career goals. I think that this step I was by far the most concerned about. I didn’t know how exactly I should go about choosing which places to apply to and if I were to be accepted, if they would fit me. The team did a wonderful job considering my likes and dislikes and helped me compile a list of colleges that suited my tastes and would further my academic career. "After this integral first step, my focus turned towards time management and writing quality essays that would stand out to colleges. I got... Read more...

"My initial goals when I first started working with the KD Counseling crew was to compile a list of colleges that I would be somewhat interested in attending and fit my career goals. I think that this step I was by... Read more...

Nina H. – Class of 2020

"I was thankful for all the help I received from KD in preparing for my SAT ® and ACT ® exams. The workshops they offered, as well as the practice exams, gave me the tools I needed to do my very best."

Morgan D. – Class of 2020

"KDCP is a must for students wanting to stay a step ahead of the game for getting into college. My son has gained huge insight from the ACT ® /SAT ® practice workshops, practice tests, and essay class."

Tiffany – Son, Class of 2021

"KD helped to increase the efficiencies of how I took the national exams. I was also able to implement these efficiencies in my daily school studies within the IB program at PESH. I would (and have) recommend KD to those students wanting an edge on their national test scores!"

"KD helped to increase the efficiencies of how I took the national exams. I was also able to implement these efficiencies in my daily school studies within the IB program at PESH. I would (and have) recommend KD to those students... Read more...

Daniel J. – Class of 2020

"Not only have I been able to significantly improve my test scores, I have learned a tremendous amount of information about the college application process due to complimentary events that KD offers."

Sam H. – Class of 2020

"I came to KD the summer before my senior year with only my determination and big goals! KD provided me with the resources necessary to improve my test score to increase my chances at my dream school, Notre Dame, with the help from amazing teachers and staff. I am so grateful for KD!"

"I came to KD the summer before my senior year with only my determination and big goals! KD provided me with the resources necessary to improve my test score to increase my chances at my dream school, Notre Dame, with the... Read more...

Matt K. – Class of 2020

"I started classes at KD the summer before 9th grade. I...made a perfect score on the PSAT (earning the National Merit ® scholarship) and, after taking the SAT ® test only once (a relief!), scored a 1590/1600."

Thomas D. – Class of 2019

"In just one year, I was able to raise my score by 300 points and get into my dream school."

Piper F. – Class of 2020

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Kathy – Son attends Mizzou

“I came to KD College Prep after already using another tutoring service which we were not seeing results with. Due to time constraints, the traditional classes were not going to be feasible for my daughter. They took the time to figure out a personal plan that would work for her and were always available for our questions and helping her reach her goals. Every employee from the managers to the students working at their locations are top notch.”

“I came to KD College Prep after already using another tutoring service which we were not seeing results with. Due to time constraints, the traditional classes were not going to be feasible for my daughter. They took the time to figure... Read more...

Tracy – Daughter, Class of 2020

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Prema – Daughter attends Rice

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When are the application deadlines for college.

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Many prospective college students prepare for months to ensure their college applications are filled out just right. From preparing essays , getting test scores, and asking for letters of recommendation, it can take a lot of energy to make sure you have all the required information to complete a college application.

But when are college applications due? Keep reading as we break down the ins and outs of college application deadlines, along with questions you may have about these deadlines.

When are college applications due for “early decision”?

Most colleges have early decision and early action deadlines that predominantly fall on November 1 for the next academic year. For example, if you’re applying early decision or early action to be in the incoming freshmen class of 2025, the application deadline will likely be on November 1, 2024.

If you apply early decision, and get accepted by a school, you must attend. For early action, you’ll likely receive an admission decision by February of the following year, but you can take a couple of months to decide if you want to attend or not – your decision isn’t binding.

Even though November 1 is often the norm for colleges who offer early decision and early action application options, this deadline can vary by school, so make sure to check the deadlines for each school you’re interested in and make a note of them.

When are college applications due for “regular decision”?

According to College Board, a national nonprofit that helps students with college admissions, you’ll likely see deadlines for regular decision applications between the months of January and February. Many schools have a deadline of January 1, if it’s helpful to keep a general deadline in the back of your mind. So, for instance, the regular decision deadline to apply to college for the fall of 2025, would be January 1, 2025.

Just like with early decision and early action, this’ll vary by school, so make sure to check the exact deadline for each school you’re interested in applying to.

When are college applications due for transfer students?

If you’re considering transferring schools in the next academic year, you’ll want to keep an eye out for transfer specific deadlines. Some schools have the same application deadlines whether you’re applying to transfer or are applying as a first-year student, while others have different deadlines for transfer students. Because of that, you’ll want to check the deadline for each school you’re interested in applying to as a transfer student.

Many colleges and universities have a transfer application deadline of March 1 for the next academic year.

Common FAQs about college application deadlines

When’s the common app due.

Students utilize the Common App to apply to different schools. This standardized admission application is supported by over 1,000 U.S. colleges and universities and allows you to share your personal information, essays, activities, grades and more in one platform to the schools of your choice.

While the app’s purpose is to simplify the college application process, the deadline to submit the Common App to the schools you want to apply to is based on the individual schools’ deadlines. The Common App opens to students on August 1 for the next academic year.

Can you send college applications after the deadline?

Whether or not you can submit college applications after the deadline will depend on the school. Some will accept late college applications in rare circumstances such as a family emergency, medical illness, or natural disaster. You'll want to contact the school’s admissions office as soon as possible to find out if you can submit a late college application.

Can you send college applications before receiving teacher recommendations?

If you’re applying to colleges through the Common App, you can send your application to schools before submitting letters of recommendation. If a school doesn’t use the Common App, or you’re applying to a school via its individual application regardless, you’ll want to ask the school’s admissions office if this is permissible.

Can you send college applications before receiving SAT or ACT scores?

Whether or not you can send college applications in before supplying ACT or SAT scores with an application will depend on the school. Most colleges do allow students to send updated SAT or ACT scores after you’ve submitted your application, though.

It’s also important to note that some schools don’t ask for or make it optional for students to supply standardized test scores like SAT or ACT scores with their applications.

Final thoughts

You may feel nervous when it comes to preparing your college applications , but staying on top of deadlines is one way you can feel more at ease. Because many schools have different deadlines, you may consider jotting the deadlines down for the schools you’re considering applying to months in advance, so you’ll be ready when the deadlines arrive.

More From Forbes

College applications are up significantly for next fall.

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Compared to 2019-20, the number of applicants to four-year colleges this year has increased by more ... [+] than 285,000, a 28% gain.

The number of college applicants through March 1, 2024, has increased by 6% over the same time last year, according to the latest update from the Common Application . The data cover applications for fall 2024 admissions to four-year institutions.

Through March 1, 1,313,763 distinct first-year applicants had applied to 834 institutions using the Common App, an increase of more than 70,000 applicants compared to the prior year.

The total number of applications through March 1 rose 7% from 7,041,256 last year to 7,541,148 this year. Applicants were applying to slightly more members in the 2023-24 cycle than in 2022-23 (up 1% from 5.66 to 5.74 applications per applicant).

This year’s increase also sustains the upward trend in applications compared to the 2019-20 cycle, the last admissions year not affected by the Covid-19 pandemic. Compared to 2019-20, the number of applicants to four-year colleges this year has increased by more than 285,000, a 28% gain.

Applicant Characteristics

This is the first admission cycle since the U.S. Supreme Court decision banning race-conscious admissions so there is particular interest in any demographic trends in applicant behavior.

Underrepresented minority applicants (defined by the Common App as Black or African American, Latinx, American Indian or Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander) increased by 10%, five times the rate of non-URM applicants.

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Among the two largest URM groups, Black applicants increased by 9%, and Latinx applicants were up 10%. By contrast, the number of white applicants increased by only 1%.

Applicants from families living in below-median-income ZIP codes grew 10% compared to 3% for their peers from above-median-income ZIP codes.

Students who reported they were eligible for a Common App fee waiver increased by more than six times the rate of students not reporting fee waiver eligibility (13% vs. 2%).

First-generation college applicants increased by 4%, compared to a 7% increase for applicants who were not first-gen.

The increase in international applicants (13%) substantially exceeded the growth in domestic applicants (5%). This growth was fastest among applicants with citizenship in Ghana (93%), Afghanistan (61%), Mongolia (57%), and Uzbekistan (43%).

Regional Differences

Although all regions in the U.S. saw an increase in applicants, the growth rate in Southwestern (+17%) states was far larger than that of other regions over the same timeframe. The New England states saw the smallest increase, year over year, at 1%.

Institutional Differences

Applications to public school members using the Common App (10%) grew at twice the rate of applications to private members (5%) over last year.

The degree of selectivity in admissions affected the rate of increase. Growth in applications was slowest for the most selective institutions (defined as having admit rates below 25%) at 3% and highest for less selective institutions (admit rates greater than or equal to 75%) at 10%.

Standardized Testing

In the 2019-20 application cycle, 55% of Common App members required standardized test scores. Following the pandemic, that dropped dramatically to just 5% in 2021-22. In 2023-24, only 4% of Common App schools required a test score to submit an application.

In 2019-20, 76% of applicants reported a test score with their application. This cycle, only 45% of applicants included a test score with their application.

The gap between the number of applicants reporting and not reporting a test score has been widening since 2021-22, with an increasing number of students choosing not to report. This cycle, there was a 9% increase in applicants who did not report a test score with their application versus a 1% increase in applicants who reported a score.

This difference bears watching in future cycles, given the recent spate of selective or highly selective institutions electing to reinstate their standardized test requirements for admission.

Implications

A 6% boost in applicants is a significant increase this late in the admissions cycle. It suggests that the current academic year’s modest increase in college enrollment might be sustained for another year.

However, other factors might still counteract this initially encouraging news. Not all colleges participate in the Common App. So, their numbers are not included. The multiple fiascos associated with the rollout of a revamped FAFSA is wreaking havoc on the timing and accuracy of financial aid offers and very well could result in an admission downturn among students with substantial financial need. In addition, these data don’t include applications to community colleges, which sustained the heaviest enrollment losses over the course of the pandemic.

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