high school college application timeline

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

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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

“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 very helpful, and the individualized assistance I received from teachers were what really supported my learning. Special thanks to Ms. Barwick and Mr. Hoffman!”

“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

"Having our recent GHS graduate attend KD was life changing. It provided our son with choices and opportunities that he might not have had otherwise."

Kathy – Son attends Mizzou

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12th Grade College Application Timeline

Find the right college for you..

Want to know if you’re on track for the senior year timeline for the college application process? This college application timeline for seniors shows you what you should be doing, and when.

• Narrow your list of colleges to between 5 and 10. Meet with a counselor about your college choices and, if you haven’t done so yet, download college applications and financial aid forms. Plan to visit as many of these colleges as possible.
• Tests you’ll take and their fees, dates, and registration deadlines.
• College application timeline and due dates.
• Required financial aid application forms and their deadlines (aid applications may be due before college applications).
• Other materials you’ll need (e.g., recommendations, transcripts)
• Your school district's high school timeline for college application processing.
• Ask a counselor to help you request a fee waiver if you can’t afford application or test fees when applying for colleges senior year.
• Take the SAT one more time : Many seniors retake the SAT in the fall as part of their college planning timeline. The additional coursework you completed since your last test could help you boost your performance. Plus, you'll already know what to expect on test day.
• Send your SAT scores to the colleges you’re applying to if your scores strengthen your application.
• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) : To apply for most financial aid, you’ll need to add completing the FAFSA to your timeline for college planning. October 1 is the first day you can file the FAFSA.
• Complete the CSS PROFILE : CSS PROFILE is an online application used by certain colleges and scholarship programs to determine eligibility for their aid dollars.
• Prepare early decision/early action or rolling admission applications as soon as possible. Colleges may require test scores and applications between November 1 and November 15 for early decision admission.
• Ask a counselor or teacher for recommendations if you need them. Give each teacher or counselor an outline of your academic record and your extracurricular activities. For each recommendation, provide your teacher or counselor with the URL link and any college forms required. Allow them at least 10 school days to complete the recommendations.
• Write first drafts of application essays, and ask teachers and others to read them before you submit them. If you’re applying for early decision, finish the essays for that application now.
• Complete at least 1 college application by Thanksgiving.
• Ask counselors how to submit your transcripts to colleges.
• Save copies as you finish and send your applications and essays.
• Request your high school send an official transcript: It may be sent by U.S. mail or email. You may want a copy for yourself, though this copy wouldn’t be considered official.
• Work with your counselor on mid-year updates if the college wants to see second-semester grades.
• Keep active in school. Whether you are waitlisted or already accepted, the college will want to know what you’ve accomplished between the time you applied and the time you learned of its decision.
• Visit your final college before accepting. The college timeline for high school students shows that you should receive acceptance letters and financial aid offers by mid-April. Notify your counselor of your choice. If you have questions about housing offers, talk to your counselor. Or call the college.r of your choice. If you have questions about housing offers, talk to your counselor or call the college.
• Inform every college of your acceptance or rejection of the offer of admission and/or financial aid by May 1. Colleges can’t require your deposit or your commitment to attend before May 1. Talk to your counselor or adviser if you have questions.
• Send your enrollment deposit after you receive the admission letter. The deposit goes toward your first year’s tuition. Some colleges may consider these deposits nonrefundable and may ask for additional funds related to fees like room and board.
• Take any AP Exams . Show what you’ve learned in your AP classes. A successful score could even earn you credit, advanced placement, or both in college.
• Waitlisted by a college ? If you intend to enroll if you are accepted, tell the admission director your intent and ask how to strengthen your application. Need financial aid? Ask whether funds will be available if you’re accepted.
• Work with a counselor to resolve any admissions or financial aid problems.
• Ask your high school to send a final transcript to your college either electronically or through the U.S. mail.
• Review your financial aid awards : Not all financial aid awards are the same, so it’s important to choose the aid package that’s best for you and your family. Be sure to note what you have to do to continue receiving financial aid from year to year, and how your aid might change in future years.

When do college applications open for the next year’s class?

Most college applications open August 1 each year for students who plan to begin college classes for the following year’s fall semester.

College Planning for Seniors

This season-by-season handout guides 12th-graders through their last year before college.

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High school students planning for college can make the process easier by following this helpful timeline to ensure important steps aren't missed. This guide provides you with tips to help you stay organized, remove stress, and stand out on your college application.

How to Prepare for College

While you're still in high school, planning for college can feel a little overwhelming along with all you're doing for classes, extracurriculars, and everything else. You might be wondering how to prepare for college in high school and what steps to take to create a good college plan. While there are many steps in the college planning process, getting an early start and breaking the process down into actionable steps are the keys to success.

Preparing for college requires focusing on academics, extracurricular experiences, and deciding on goals for the future. With clear goals in mind, it will be easier to target the schools to apply to and begin creating a financial plan (including applying for scholarships and grants) to achieve your college dreams. 

Sophomore Year: Planning for College 

Sophomore year is a good time to begin to create a college plan. With a year of high school experience behind you, it's time to start to thinking about life after high school. What are your dreams for the future? What do you want to study? What career would you like to have?

You do not have to be absolute or certain about the answers to the questions. While many students don’t need to have life all figured out, it is a good time to begin thinking through these questions, having conversations with mentors and supporters. The answers you provide help in planning for college and conducting college research.

Academic Advising

College advising should begin in your sophomore year. High school academic advisors, sometimes referred to as guidance counselors, can help you create a plan for your future and map out the steps to achieve your goals. They can direct you to colleges that might be a good fit for you. Most importantly, they can help you choose appropriate high school classes that will challenge you and meet academic requirements for your college choices.

Advisors can help you plan for taking Advanced Placement (AP) courses and which AP Courses would be the best fit for you. These courses look good on a high school transcript as evidence of rigorous study. Achieving high scores on corresponding AP exams can also count toward college and high school credit.

College admissions committees don’t only look at academics. They are also interested in what you do outside the classroom. Academic advisors can help you select extracurricular activities both in and out of school that interest you and help you build an impressive resume.

Preparing for College Entrance Exams

Sophomore year is also the time to gear up for college entrance exams. You can prepare for the SAT by taking the PSAT-10 or the PSAT/NMSQT. In addition to offering valuable test preparation, the PSAT/NMSQT is used to determine who receives National Merit Scholarships. If you plan to take the ACT, your sophomore year is the last year you can take the PreACT . Academic advisors can help you register for these important exams.

Find Colleges

Sophomore year is a good time to begin making a list of colleges you want to consider applying to. There are so many colleges to choose from that it can be a challenge to come up with a manageable list. How do you know which college will be right for you? Online college finders and school academic advisors can help narrow the search.

There are several things to keep in mind when determining how to find the college that fits you best. Some of them include:

• Majors Available : If you know what they want to study, finding a college that has that major is key. However, it is also true that many students change their majors once they begin college, so attending a college that has other areas of study you might be interested in is a plus.
• Location : College is going to be a huge change for a lot of students who have never spent considerable time away from home. Some questions to ask yourself might be whether you want to stay close to home and commute to college? Would you prefer to live on campus but be close enough to go home for weekends or to check in with family? Is the goal to go far away and experience a different part of the country (or even a different country)?
• School Size : A smaller college can provide individualized support and the opportunity for closer community. A larger school may have more extracurricular offerings and the chance to get involved in more ways.
• School Reputation : All college degrees aren't created equal, so making sure that yours will be respected by future employers, look into how reputable your college choices are. Are they known to be party schools? Do they employ well-known or highly experienced professors? Is the school inclusive or open to issues that are important to you?
• Tuition and Other Costs : Tuition rates aren't the only thing to consider when it comes to looking at school costs. It's also important to research each college's fees and other expenses, especially if you'll be living on campus. Textbooks, food, dorm, technology fees, parking and transportation, activity fees, insurance, lab fees, and other miscellaneous costs can add up.

College Scholarships

Speaking of the college costs, as a sophomore you can begin searching for college scholarships and grant opportunities that you might be eligible for. While it might be too early to apply for college scholarships at this point, it is helpful to know what's out there in terms of available scholarships.

Similar to searching for colleges and universities, there are online tools that can help you search for appropriate scholarships. Scholarships are offered by schools, companies, private sources, the government, and other organizations. High school academic advisors may know of local community college scholarships offered by regional organizations that you can also apply for.

One of the advantages of searching for scholarships early in the college planning process is that you can start to tailor your resume to meet the requirements of desired scholarships. While some scholarships are based on factors you may not have much control over, such as financial need, race, or geographic area, others are more interested in your skills.

For example, some scholarships look for academic achievement while others are more concerned about community involvement, leadership skills, athletic ability, or artistic potential. Choosing classes and/or extracurricular activities that illustrate your abilities that align with the scholarship or with your academic and career goals can be very helpful down the road.

Many scholarships require a personal essay. This is your opportunity to set yourself apart from other students. Some scholarships offer essay prompts to get you started. If nothing there inspires you or no prompts are offered, there's still time to pursue experiences during your remaining high school years that might make for a more interesting scholarship essay topic.

Junior Year: College Research

Junior year is the time for you to take college research to the next level. If you haven't yet begun to look at colleges, you can start to find colleges online and discuss how to research colleges with the help of an academic advisor.

Once you have a preliminary list of college possibilities, it is time to hone that list. You'll want to be in contact with colleges you're interested in, get on mailing lists, and begin to explore those colleges in greater depth. College visits, speaking with current students and alumni, and doing online research are all ways to learn more about a school and its community to help decide if it will be a good fit for you.

As a junior, you can also can prepare for and take college entrance exams. In addition, you'll want to consider how you plan to pay for college by continuing to explore scholarships, grants, and other funding options that may be available.

College Advising

It is important during your junior year to take advantage of academic advising to ensure you are on track to meet all high school requirements as well as the requirements of the colleges you plan to apply to. Some colleges and universities have more stringent requirements for admission than what a high school may mandate for graduation. If you know what you plan to major in, an academic advisor can help you select electives that will support that goal. For example, if you're planning to major in a scientific or medical field, you'll want to take additional science electives.

The end of junior year is an appropriate time to begin thinking about who could write you letters of recommendation. You’ll want at least two letters of recommendation, one academic focused by a teacher who knows you and who you have a good report with, and a letter of recommendation from a coach, mentor, or community leader. It can be helpful to have a letter of recommendation from teachers who are in the same academic field you want to pursue in college.

In the fall of your junior year, you can take the PSAT/NMSQT exam. If you'd already taken it during your sophomore year, you can opt to take it a second time if you want more prep for the actual test. In addition to providing solid practice for the SAT exam, it offers you the chance at scholarship money through the National Merit Scholarship program as well as through other scholarship programs. You'll sign up for this exam through your high school. If you're homeschooled, you are able to register to take the exam through local high schools.

The best preparation for taking the PSAT/NMSQT is paying attention in school. It is designed to test much of the material and skills learned in traditional high school classes. However, if you want additional preparation, study guides are available both online and in print form.

In the spring of your junior year, you can take the SAT or ACT exams. It is a good idea to study for these exams and take them during your junior year rather than waiting for senior year because it provides the opportunity to retake the exam and potentially raise your score. When deciding which exam to take, look at the colleges where you want to apply to determine what they require. Some schools have no SAT/ACT requirement, but it's a good idea to take at least one of these exams anyway to keep your options open.

Preparing for the SAT or ACT can be done online, with a tutor, or by using printed preparation materials. Taking practice tests will help you become familiar with the exams and help reduce test anxiety.

Grants and Scholarships for College

If you've narrowed down your college choices and possible majors of study by this point, you can begin a more targeted search for college scholarships. Financial aid offices at the colleges where you plan to submit applications can help you know what institutional aid might be available to you. Many colleges and universities offer site-specific scholarships for academic achievement, athletic ability, or for specific majors, such as STEM fields.

High school academic advisors are also a good resource for information on scholarships for college. They may be aware of scholarships that previous students from your high school have received, especially local scholarships that may not come up on an internet search.

Online scholarship search tools are useful for discovering scholarships you may be uniquely qualified for. It is possible to search for scholarships by major, interests, demographics, financial need, and more.

As a junior, you can get organized by creating a spreadsheet of possible scholarships to apply for, including the scholarship name, due date, application materials required, and contact information. This will help you keep track and not duplicate your efforts. You can also begin working on scholarship essays if those are required.

Visiting Colleges

Online videos and glossy brochures can only tell prospective students so much about a college. It is important to schedule college visits to get a true feel for a school and its environment to see if it is a good match for you.

When to Start Visiting Colleges.

Spring of junior year is an ideal time to begin visiting colleges on weekends and during breaks. By this point in your high school career, you should have a good idea of your academic standing and can target schools that will meet your needs. To make the most of your time and money (since traveling to potential colleges isn't free) prioritize your college list and start with your highest preferences first. However, it can also benefit you to start our by touring a local school, since you can learn a lot about what to ask and what's expected when it comes to visiting your first-choice campuses. 

What to Wear to a College Visit

For most college visits, casual attire is usually going to be fine. At the very least, wear comfortable shoes that are good for walking. Campus tours usually cover quite a bit of distance and having sore feet will not enhance the experience. If an interview with an admissions counselor is planned, wear business casual (bring a dressier pair of shoes to change into for the interview). If the college visit will take place over a weekend or several days, bring a few changes of clothes that will be appropriate for various types of outings.

Questions to Ask When Visiting Colleges

While you're on campus, try to talk to students as well as official school representatives to get a true understanding of life at the school. Some questions to ask include:

• How are admissions decisions made?
• What is the average class size?
• Do professors or teaching assistants teach first-year students?
• What type of academic support is available?
• What is the social life like?
• How are residence assignments determined?

Summer Before Senior Year

The summer before senior year, you might hold a summer job or volunteer positions, but you'll also want to spend time with friends. However, this is a key time to kick the college planning process into high gear. During your break, you can conduct college visits, study for entrance exams, and begin working on the college application process with a little more vigor. Senior year is a busy time both academically and socially, and working on these tasks over the summer can help relieve some of the pressure during your final academic year.

College Application Process

The college application process can seem daunting, but the best tactic is to make a list of schools to apply to along with their required application components and any relevant deadlines to help ensure a positive outcome. There are some items you should be familiar with as you narrow your search to successfully navigate the paperwork involved.

Common Application

Many schools accept the Common Application, which is free to create. Check to see if the colleges on your list are among them. Completing this one college Common Application can be a great time saver. However, some schools also ask for additional materials to be sent directly to them. When getting ready to apply to colleges, be aware of what each of your selected schools requires.

In addition to the Common Application, the Coalition Application is accepted by a growing number of institutions. If you're interested in attending an historically Black college or university, you'll want to consider using the Common Black College Application. Both of these options aim to remove barriers to higher education for traditionally disadvantaged students.

Application Fees

Most schools charge an application fee usually ranging from $30 to $100. These fees can quickly add up when multiple applications are submitted, so it's advisable to limit your list of potential colleges to only as many as you can afford to apply to. It can also help to spread them out as much as possible so you're not taking a big financial hit all at once.

Application fees are non-refundable; however, if you have a demonstrated financial need, you may be eligible for application fee waivers.

The College Board will send a college application fee waiver to all students who received a test fee waiver for the SAT. Many schools accept these waivers. Those who take the ACT can also fill out a request for a fee waiver. The Common Application and Coalition Application have space to request a fee waiver as part of the application.

Application Deadlines

Some schools offer early decision applications. These applications allow you to apply earlier (usually early through mid-November) and receive a decision early. This can remove a great deal of stress from the application process if you get accepted to your top choice early so you don't have to worry about applying to other schools. However, if you opt for early action, you should be sure it's for the school you're set on, since you're often obligated to attend if you're accepted and your financial need is met.

The regular application deadline for most schools is the first part of January, though some accept applications into February. A few schools offer late application periods as late as August, but that doesn't mean they’ll have spots available; you could get waitlisted instead. Keep track of the deadlines for each school and be sure to meet them.

Schools that have rolling admissions do not have a hard deadline. Instead, they accept applications until all seats for the incoming year are filled. If you're truly interested in a school, however, don't delay submitting an application.

College Application Essay & Recommendation Letters

College applications often require an essay and recommendation letters, so start drafting your essay now and thinking about who you want to get recommendation letters from so you can hit the ground running when school starts in the fall.

How to Write a College Application Essay

It can be a little intimidating to write an essay that explains who you are, what you want, and why you should be accepted to a college. Use your essay as a chance for you to share part of yourself with the admissions committee but be careful about getting too personal. While college application essay topics can run the gamut, you should strive to write in an authentic voice and illustrate what matters most to you.

Create an opening sentence that grabs the reader’s attention and follow it up with material that reveals what makes you unique. Write several drafts to refine the essay and have others read it to provide feedback. Be sure everything is spelled correctly and is written in correct grammar.

Remember your essay should show the selection committee that you're a good fit for the school, so while it's okay to reuse parts of your essay if you want to convey a specific message, it's a good idea to customize it to fit the nature and character of each school. Taking some time during the summer to begin your application essay can make the process a bit smoother once you start your senior year.

Recommendation Letters

By the time you start submitting applications, you should have all the letters of recommendation from the people you ask. Most applications want two to three letters of recommendation. If you worked a summer job or volunteered with an organization, think about asking your supervisor for a letter. Make a list of teachers you want recommendation letters from as soon as the school year begins and ask them as soon as possible.

High School Resume for a College Application

Some college applications ask for a high school resume, but even if they don't, it's another way to help your application stand out. A resume should contain all relevant academic achievements and extracurricular activities along with work and volunteer experience. It is a structured showcase of all you've accomplished during your high school career. Your guidance counselor can help you draft a resume that highlights your relevant experience and accomplishments.

College Financial Aid

During the summer, continue searching for college scholarships and begin to apply for as many as you're qualified for. Keep track of scholarship deadlines so you don't miss any opportunities.

At this point, the list of prospective colleges you want to attend should be getting shorter. As soon as you can, reach out to the financial aid offices at these institutions to discuss their financial aid policies. Do you meet their required financial need? Do they offer any grants or loans? What scholarships does the school have that you might be eligible for? Take these answers into consideration when deciding which colleges to apply to.

Sometimes schools with a higher sticker price may actually be more affordable than less expensive institutions once financial aid is taken into consideration. There is no way to know for sure without investigating all the options.

More College Visits

Summer is a great time to finish making college visits. They can often be combined with a family vacation. If traveling a distance, it can be helpful to visit several schools in the area at the same time or to plot out a travel itinerary that will allow for visiting your top school choices.

Create a college visit checklist that includes the questions that are most important to you. Take notes during or immediately after the visit to record the answers to those questions and write down your impression of the campus and the local area.

One of the downsides of making college visits in the summer is that campuses have fewer students during a summer term, but still make a point of talking to the students who are available and sitting in on a summer class if that's possible to get a true feel for what it might be like to be enrolled.

Taking College Entrance Exams

If you didn’t take the SAT test or ACT test in you junior year or if you want to retake the exams to try to get a better score, summer is the perfect time to study and prepare for the tests so that SAT or ACT scores can be sent to colleges in a timely fashion. Not all schools require college entrance exams, but if you do well on them, it can be a benefit to submit them even to test-optional schools as an additional way to demonstrate your academic potential.

Look up registration dates for the July, September, or October ACT test dates. The deadlines are usually a little over a month in advance. You can create an account and register for the ACT test online. There are many test centers to choose from, so you shouldn't have to travel far to find out. On test day, bring your admission ticket, photo ID, number two pencils, a watch, and an approved calculator.

SAT registration also takes place online. As a senior, you'll want to take the SAT test in August, October, or November. The deadline for registration is one month before the test. As with the ACT, you should bring your printed admission ticket, photo ID, number two pencils, and an approved calculator. You may also bring a watch.

Senior Year: Applying to College

Senior year is the time for all the advance college planning to pay off and start really putting it into action!

Take SAT or ACT tests for the final time, complete all the required application paperwork, and apply for financial aid for college including scholarships. Once acceptances come in, spend some time visiting the remaining colleges on your list, if possible, to help make the final decision. Also, it's time to make some final decisions on financial aid packages and living arrangements for college.

Once decisions are made, take a little time to celebrate! While applying to college and waiting to hear their decisions can be stressful, this is also an exciting time to enjoy the last year of high school and dream of a promising future.

SAT & ACT Test Scores

The fall of senior year is the last chance to take the ACT or SAT and have the scores be available for the traditional college application period. If you'd already taken them but didn't do as well as you'd hoped, a retest can bring up your scores.

However, if you have test anxiety or simply do poorly on standardized tests, all is not lost. Entrance exams are only part of an application. Admissions committees consider many other factors, and there are many colleges that don’t require entrance exams.

You have the option to cancel requests to send scores to colleges once you receive your score if you're not pleased with it and think it will hurt your admission chances more than help. You may wish to apply to some schools that require test scores and some that don't to increase your chances of acceptance.

IB & AP Exams

If you're pursuing an International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma , tests are given in November and May. Advanced Placement (AP) tests are given in May of each year. You can decide whether to submit scores from your junior year or senior year to colleges.

Applying to College

The big moment has come. It's time to complete the college application paperwork. Create a college application checklist that includes the following:

Colleges and universities : Create a final list of schools to apply to. On the list should be at least one dream school and some that you're pretty sure you have a good chance of being accepted to. 

College application deadlines : Check your notes for when application materials are due. Early action colleges offer students the chance to apply and receive a decision earlier than the traditional application period. If this is something you want to take advantage of for a first-choice school, begin assembling the required materials to submit as soon as possible. You may want to have a college with late application deadlines on your list as a backup. Note which schools accept the Common or Coalition Application or if there is a special application that must be completed.

College application essay : Most schools require an essay as part of an application. Write down the topics that the individual schools require. Work on those essays, double-checking spelling and grammar to be sure they are the best that they can be.

Resume : Keep honing your resume to highlight your academic and community achievements. Creating a resume can help you consider all that you've done in high school and offer some topics to include in your college essays.

Letters of Recommendation : Ask for letters of recommendation from teachers or community leaders who can speak to your strengths and ability to thrive in college. Provide them with at least a few weeks before the deadline to complete the letters.

FAFSA Application & Applying for Financial Aid

You (along with your parent or guardian) will want to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).The FAFSA form becomes available October 1st for the following school year. It's best to complete it online as soon as possible after that date to be eligible for the most aid.

You'll need your family's complete financial information, including income, savings, and investments, to fill out the form. You can indicate which schools you'd like the resulting student aid report sent to. FAFSA student aid may come in the form of grants provided by the federal government, such as the Pell Grant, as well as scholarships or loans.

When planning for college financial aid, it is helpful to apply for college scholarships as those provide money that does not need to be repaid. There are many college scholarships for high school seniors, including community college scholarships, and it's not too late to search for and apply for these opportunities while in the last year of high school. As with applying to college, it's helpful to create a spreadsheet or checklist to keep track of scholarship application requirements.

Wrap Up College Visits

Senior year provides a final opportunity for visiting colleges before applying. You may wish to revisit a school during the school year to get a better feel for the college during the academic year.

Some good questions to ask college admissions representatives include how financial aid is awarded, the types of academic and physical accommodations that are available if those are needed, and the support services that students can take advantage of. You may even want to arrange for an overnight visit to see what dorm life is like and to have the opportunity to shadow a student who's majoring in the same field you're considering. Some schools offer visiting days for accepted students to help them make a final decision about attending their college.

College Acceptance

The applications have been submitted, and the wait for a college acceptance letter begins. What can you expect at this stage of the process?

When do College Decisions Come Out?

Early action colleges tend to send out decisions in December through February. Regular decisions come in during March and April. Rolling admissions may come in any time during the winter or spring depending on when the application was submitted and how much time the school takes to consider it.

College Acceptance Letter

A college acceptance letter may come in the form of an email or a thick envelope that comes in the traditional mail. However it comes, congratulations! This is a milestone to celebrate.

If the decision is a no, don’t lose heart. College acceptance rates vary among institutions, but the reality is that many students who meet the college admission requirements receive at least one rejection.

If you're added to a waitlist, this means the full number of students accepted has been filled but not all have confirmed. If some decide to attend another school, those seats will open back up, and depending where you are on the waitlist, you could still get in. A final decision may not come until August, so it's best to have a backup plan in case the acceptance doesn’t come.

College Letter of Intent

Once you're heard back from all the schools you'd applied to, it's time to make a decision. Consider the financial aid offers from all schools you got into and weigh the options. Colleges generally want you to submit a letter of intent by May 1st.

Decide which college to attend and send in the required deposit. Also, reject the acceptance by other schools that offered one so they can notify the students on their waitlists as soon as possible. Now it's time to take a deep breath and celebrate that your college search has reached a successful conclusion, and the future awaits!

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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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The FAFSA has undergone several changes this year, causing unexpected delays for both students and colleges.

Here are my seven tips to the early high schooler in preparing for a strong college application.

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This section provides a timeline for thinking about college admissions and completing your college applications. It recommends actions you can take each year of high school to ensure you are a competitive applicant when it comes time to submit your application to a four-year institution. All steps are assembled in chronological order. Get started early and follow the timeline so that you’re less stressed come crunch time senior year. Download the printable College Admissions Timeline if you prefer to take notes and check things off as you go. Good luck!

Explore the graphic below to get a general idea of your timeline. If you're looking for more detailed information or links to relevant articles, refer to the text below the graphic.

Throughout High School:

• Get to know your guidance counselor.
• Take challenging courses.
• Learn a language.
• Get involved in extracurricular activities.
• Serve your community.
• Make your summers meaningful .
• Read in your spare time.
• National College Fairs
• Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) College Fairs
• Performing and Visual Arts College Fairs
• Your high school may also host fairs; check with your guidance counselor.
• Research and apply for private scholarships that can cut your future college costs.
• Take AP tests in May of each academic year.
• Take IB exams in November or May junior and senior year.

Junior Year – Fall Semester:

• Identify your college preferences .
• Find the right academic fit .
• Find the right financial fit .
• Take the PSAT/NMSQT .
• Determine whether you will take the SAT or the ACT .
• Take IB exams .
• Consider taking SAT Subject Tests .

Junior Year – Spring Semester:

• Register and take the SAT or the ACT .
• Call ahead to potential schools to schedule visits.
• Plan to stay overnight with a student, if possible.
• Meet with an admissions counselor at each institution.
• Sit in on classes and meet with faculty or students from your potential department.
• Ask current students for real answers about student life.
• Register and take SAT Subject Tests , IB exams , and/or AP exams .

Summer Before Senior Year:

• Narrow down your college list.
• Decide if you want to apply early to any schools.
• Write your high school résumé .
• Determine if your school uses an application platform or if you must apply through the institution.
• Begin gathering your application materials .
• Write the first draft of your college admissions essay .

Senior Year – September:

• Use Student Caffé’s College Application Checklist to keep track of deadlines and requirements for each school.
• Early and regular decision application deadlines.
• Dates of request for transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and other application materials from your high school.
• Dates of submission of transcripts, test scores, letters of recommendation, and other application materials to each college.
• Deadlines for all necessary financial aid forms (FAFSA, CSS Profile, and any supplements required by the institution).
• Deadlines for institutional and private scholarships.
• Research and apply for private scholarships .
• Ask your counselor and teachers for recommendation letters .
• Open online application accounts or request that hard copies of application materials are sent to you from each school.
• Register to retake the SAT , ACT , or SAT Subject Tests . October is the last month you can take these tests if you need your scores reported before any early application deadlines. For schools where you are applying regular decision, check to see the last test date for which they accept scores. You could potentially retake the tests in November and December.
• Begin revisions on the first draft of your college admissions essay.

Senior Year – October:

• Continue working on essays and finish those for early admission applications by the end of the month.
• Tackle short answer questions .
• Gently remind teachers and guidance counselors of application deadlines if they have not already submitted their recommendations, especially if you have any early admissions applications.
• Have your high school send your transcripts to each institution.
• Send standardized test scores to colleges.
• Request an application fee waiver from your guidance counselor if you qualify. The form and information can be found here .
• Apply for an FSA ID .
• Complete your FAFSA as early as possible.

Senior Year – November:

• Submit early applications by posted deadlines. Generally, these are on November 1st or 15th.
• Put the finishing touches on any regular decision admissions essays.

Senior Year – December:

• If necessary, gently remind teachers and guidance counselors of application deadlines again. It is your responsibility to make sure everything is submitted by the posted due dates.
• Complete and submit all regular decision applications.
• Write thank-you notes to teachers and counselors after they submit recommendations.
• Complete the College Board’s CSS Financial Aid Profile if it is required by your institution.

Senior Year – Spring Semester:

• Consider any waitlist offers .
• Compare acceptance offers .
• Send in your deposit by the national deadline of May 1st.
• Accept or deny a work-study award .
• Determine if you will need to take out private loans .
• Contact the schools you will not be attending.
• Keep up your grades.
• Send your final transcripts to your chosen institution.
• Take IB exams or AP tests .

Summer Before College:

• Fill out and send in your roommate questionnaire for on-campus housing or secure off-campus housing .
• Decide on a meal plan .
• Make sure your immunizations are up to date.
• Send in your medical records.
• Contact your roommate.
• Sign up for orientation.
• Register for classes.
• Buy items for your dorm room or apartment.
• Pack for college .
• Enjoy your summer!

Page last updated: 05/2019

Related topics:

High school students: how to prepare for college, applying early to college, breaking down the college application, making your final decision, college application timeline for returning or adult students, college application timeline for transfer students, the types and benefits of four-year colleges.

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• How to Apply for College | Timeline, Templates & Checklist

How to Apply for College | Timeline, Templates & Checklist

Published on October 18, 2021 by Kirsten Courault . Revised on May 31, 2023.

Most US college application deadlines for undergraduate programs are between late November and mid-March, and you should start thinking about applying for college the summer before junior year. Your application should typically include the following:

• Personal information, extracurriculars, and awards
• Transcripts
• Standardized test scores
• Recommendation letters

In this comprehensive guide, we show you how to organize deadlines and stay on track throughout your college application process.

We’ve also created a free Google Sheets template that you can use to organize and track your college applications.

Table of contents

College application timeline, research schools, apply for financial aid, take standardized tests, write college application essays, complete college applications, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about college application essays.

Use our timeline to make sure you’re on track with all the different parts of your college application.

To save the timeline and refer back to it throughout your application process, you can download the PDF below.

College application timeline (.pdf)

Prevent plagiarism. Run a free check.

Most students apply to several different schools. After researching schools and deciding which ones you’ll apply to, you should keep track of their deadlines and requirements.

Make your college list

Begin compiling a college list the summer before your junior year. Start researching schools based on their academic programs, financial aid packages, clubs and activities, and geographical location.

You should have a final list of your top schools by the second semester of your junior year, so you can plan for college visits that same semester. To maximize your options, aim to apply for eight schools:

• Two reach schools where it might be difficult for you to get accepted
• Four match schools where you have a good chance of getting accepted
• Two safety schools where you feel confident you’ll get accepted

Visit schools

Take time to do on-campus or virtual visits to prospective schools, but avoid visiting in the summer, when less faculty and staff are available to meet on campus. For highly selective schools, you should consider visiting campuses during the second semester of your junior year to meet and demonstrate interest to admissions officers and professors before you apply in the fall.

You can attend in-person or virtual college fairs to talk with current students and alumni. High school visits, where admissions officers from universities visit high schools, are also useful to learn more about a particular university.

Consider where you’d feel most happy learning and living based on the school and class sizes, academic programs, and geographical location.

Note requirements and deadlines for each school

In the summer before your senior year, note all deadlines and requirements for your prospective schools in a college tracker spreadsheet .

Choose early decision, early action, regular decision, or rolling admissions

In August or September, you should choose an admissions plan for each university. Most students choose the regular decision process, with deadlines spanning from late November to mid-March.

Early decision (ED) and early action (EA) plans allow students to apply for and receive admissions decisions earlier than regular decisions. Some schools’ early decision and early action rounds are less competitive, admitting a higher percentage of students than in regular decision rounds. However, you should only choose early decision or early action if you have thoroughly researched schools and are committed to attending a particular college.

Early decision is binding: you must attend that college if accepted, unless the financial aid package is insufficient. Some universities offer two rounds of early decision deadlines (ED I and ED II), one in fall and the other in winter. The ED II round in winter gives you more time to prepare a stronger application package, research and visit colleges, and explore financial aid options.

Early action is non-binding: you have until the May 1 deadline to choose which college to attend. It also allows you to explore more financial aid packages from schools you are accepted to. Some highly selective private schools offer restrictive early action, which is also non-binding, but prevents students from applying ED/EA to other private schools.

Students should prepare application materials for other schools’ regular decision deadlines if their early decision or early action applications are rejected.

Some schools also offer rolling admission , which offers a flexible six-month application window and a decision response around four to eight weeks after submission. However, rolling admission favors early applicants, since admission stops once the class reaches capacity.

You can alleviate some, or even all, of the financial burden of college by applying for federal student aid, application waivers, or scholarships from schools, corporations, or charitable foundations.

Apply for the FAFSA

As early as October 1, you can file your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for loans, grants, and work study. Your Student Aid Report (SAR) should be mailed to you about four weeks after you file the application.

International students should check with the US Department of Education for financial aid opportunities.

Apply for application fee waivers

An application fee waiver removes the application fee, typically for students who demonstrate financial hardship. You or your guidance counselor can request an application fee waiver.

Complete scholarship applications

Ask your school counselor, local community groups, and prospective colleges about scholarship opportunities as early as the beginning of your junior year. Throughout your high school career, continue compiling a list of scholarship opportunities in a scholarship application tracker spreadsheet.

Highlight overlapping essay prompts, so you can write one essay that covers multiple prompts. Sometimes you can adapt your main college essay into a scholarship essay. However, remember to tailor each essay to the prompt.

Start filling out scholarship applications, gathering required documents, and writing scholarship essays in the summer before your senior year. Throughout your senior year, apply for as many scholarship applications as possible; many students don’t take advantage of scholarship opportunities.

Register and take your standardized tests in your junior year to allow sufficient time to prepare for the test and retake it if necessary.

Take the SAT or ACT

To practice for the official test, you should register for and take the Preliminary Scholastic Assessment Test (PSAT) or the Pre-American College Test (PreACT) in either your sophomore year or the fall of your junior year.

Take the Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) or American College Test (ACT) in the spring of your junior year to allow sufficient time to retake the exam in the fall of your senior year if needed. Register for the SAT or ACT at least a month before your testing date to avoid late registration fees.

Due to the COVID pandemic, some schools no longer require students to submit test scores. However, you should still take the SAT or ACT and aim to get a high score to strengthen your application package.

Take Advanced Placement exams

If applicable, take your Advanced Placement (AP) exams in May of your sophomore, junior, and senior years. Depending on the school’s policies, if you score a 4 or 5 on an AP exam, you can earn college credit for certain first-year courses.

Your college application essays give you the opportunity to personalize your application. Colleges look for an essay that differentiates you from others and demonstrates your positive traits. Start brainstorming topics and drafting your essays the summer before your senior year to give yourself sufficient time for revising and receiving feedback.

If you’re struggling for time, check out our tips on writing your college essay fast .

Write your main college admissions essays

It’s a good idea to start working on your essays the summer before your senior year. Some essays can be reused or revised for different schools, depending on the prompt—though you might have to adjust its length if different colleges have different word count limits. The process of brainstorming and writing the first draft typically takes one to three weeks.

Write supplemental essays

Start writing any supplemental essays (such “Why this college?” essays and diversity essays ) in August or September of your senior year. Be careful when responding to these prompts, which are usually more specific than main college essay prompts. As with your main college essays, revise and get feedback on these essays.

Revise your essays and get feedback

Start revising your essay after you’ve written your first draft. Most students go through multiple drafts and take about two to four weeks to revise and get feedback. Remember to take breaks between editing stages.

In August or September of your senior year, get feedback from two to three people—ideally people who know you well, have good writing skills, and are familiar with college application essays. You can also get help from an essay coach or editor. Scribbr essay coaches can help.

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Begin creating accounts and filling in your personal information on college application portals the summer before your senior year. Start collecting and requesting official documents and recommendation letters at least three to four weeks before the deadline.

Create accounts on college application portals

After creating a prospective college list, create accounts on their respective application portals in the summer before your senior year.

The Common Application , with over 900 member universities, is the most popular. The Coalition Application, with more than 150 member universities, offers resources to help all students gain access to college.

Some schools, such as the University of California system, MIT, and Georgetown University, have their own application portals.

Fill out your personal information, extracurriculars, and awards

It’s a good idea to start a list of your extracurriculars, awards, jobs, and leadership experience in your sophomore year. Throughout your high school career, keep adding to your list, which can also be used to build your resume if needed.

Upload your essays

If you paste your essay directly into the text box, remember it won’t retain formatting like italics or bold text. Sometimes, dashes or other characters might alter the word count, so check that you’ve respected the word limit after inputting your essays.

If you have to upload a file, make it a PDF. Use a simple standard font, like Times New Roman, and format spacing to 1.5 or double space.

Send your high school transcripts and test scores

As soon as you complete your part of the application, ensure your school counselor sends your transcripts to the right colleges. Make sure your SAT, ACT, and AP scores have been sent to the correct schools. Some schools allow results to be self-reported, while others require official score reports from testing organizations.

Request letters of recommendation

Many colleges require one to two letters of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, coach, or employer who knows you well. As early as the end of your junior year, you should unofficially notify teachers or counselors of upcoming requests to give them sufficient time to write a thoughtful personalized letter during the summer.

Once you have completed your portion of the online application, send an official request through the application portals and check whether your recommenders have submitted their letters two to three weeks before the deadline.

Write your resume

Some schools require you to write a resume. While you may not have much or any work experience, you can highlight your educational career. Include your academic achievements, awards, projects, and leadership positions. You can also include any work experience, internships, or summer programs.

Review your application

Before submitting, double-check that all necessary materials are included.

Here’s a checklist you can use to track your progress through the application process.

College application checklist

I’ve researched schools and made my college list.

I’ve done on-campus and/or virtual visits to prospective schools.

I’ve chosen application plan deadlines for each school.

I’ve organized deadlines and requirements in a college applications tracker .

I’ve filed my FAFSA.

I’ve submitted scholarship applications.

I’ve taken my standardized tests.

I’ve written my college application essays .

I’ve created accounts on application portals.

I’ve filled out my personal information, extracurriculars, and awards.

I’ve requested my test scores be sent to the correct colleges.

I’ve requested my transcripts be sent to the correct colleges.

I’ve requested recommendation letters.

I’ve paid application fees or applied for application waivers.

I’ve checked that my application has all the necessary documents and information.

Congratulations!

It looks like your application is ready to submit. Good luck with getting accepted!

If you want to know more about academic writing , effective communication , or parts of speech , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

Academic writing

• Writing process
• Transition words
• Passive voice
• Paraphrasing

 Communication

• How to end an email
• Ms, mrs, miss
• How to start an email
• I hope this email finds you well
• Hope you are doing well

 Parts of speech

• Personal pronouns
• Conjunctions

You should start thinking about your college applications the summer before your junior year to give you sufficient time for college visits, taking standardized tests, applying for financial aid , writing essays, and collecting application material.

In general, for your college application you will need to submit all of the following:

• Your personal information
• List of extracurriculars and awards
• College application essays
• Recommendation letters.

Different colleges may have specific requirements, so make sure you check exactly what’s expected in the application guidance.

The college admissions essay accounts for roughly 25% of the weight of your application .

At highly selective schools, there are four qualified candidates for every spot. While your academic achievements are important, your college admissions essay can help you stand out from other applicants with similar profiles.

To maximize your options, you should aim to apply to about eight schools:

• Two reach schools that might be difficult to get into
• Four match schools that you have a good chance of getting into
• Two safety schools that you feel confident you’ll get into

Apply early for federal student aid and application fee waivers. You can also look for scholarships from schools, corporations, and charitable foundations.

Depending on your prospective schools’ requirements, you may need to submit scores for the SAT or ACT as part of your college application .

Some schools now no longer require students to submit test scores; however, you should still take the SAT or ACT and aim to get a high score to strengthen your application package.

Aim to take the SAT or ACT in the spring of your junior year to give yourself enough time to retake it in the fall of your senior year if necessary.

College deadlines vary depending on the schools you’re applying to and your application plan:

• For early action applications and the first round of early decision applications, the deadline is on November 1 or 15. Decisions are released by mid-December.
• For the second round of early decision applications, the deadline is January 1 or 15. Decisions are released in January or February.
• Regular decision deadlines usually fall between late November and mid-March, and decisions are released in March or April.
• Rolling admission deadlines run from July to April, and decisions are released around four to eight weeks after submission.

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College Admissions

Many students start college in the fall after they graduate high school, but their planning and applying starts years before. Application deadlines may be in the fall or winter of senior year, and completing each step on the path to college might start as early as freshman year.

This article answers all your questions about when to apply for college: when do you complete each step of the process, and when are your college deadlines? After reading this, you'll know exactly when to apply to college and what steps are needed.

When Do the Majority of Students Apply to College?

Most students apply to college in their senior year of high school. They graduate in May or June and then start college in September of that same year.

Most schools offer multiple options for when to submit your applications. These different options are known as admissions plans , and each plan usually has its own deadlines, requirements, and, sometimes, restrictions. The admissions plans that you’ll encounter as you research different schools include the following: early decision, early action, regular decision, and rolling admissions.

Generally speaking, most schools will require you to submit applications for early action or early decision by November of 12th grade (senior year). To meet a regular decision deadline, you'd apply a few months later in January or February. Let's take a look at each deadline in more specific detail, starting with early decision and early action.

When Do You Apply for Early Admissions?

Early admissions includes two options: early decision and early action. While early decision and early action differ in terms of their requirements and conditions, they share similar timelines. Both plans have a deadline in November and allow you to hear back about your admissions decision in mid-December.

Some popular schools with early action deadlines of November 1 are CalTech, Georgetown, Harvard, MIT, Notre Dame, Stanford, University of Virginia, and Yale. Popular early decision schools with a November 1 deadline include Boston University, Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth, Northwestern, NYU, University of Pennsylvania, and Vanderbilt.

Some schools with early decision now also offer an Early Decision II deadline, which is in January . Like Early Decision I, this binding option lets you hear back early from your first choice school, usually in February, about whether or not you got in. The main advantage of applying Early Decision II is that you’ll have a little extra time to polish up your application before submitting it. Some popular schools with Early Decision II deadlines of January 1 are Brandeis, Colby, Emory, NYU, Smith, and Vanderbilt.

Early admissions can be a great option for students who are prepared to apply early and appreciate early notification. If you're planning to apply early, when do you complete each step of the process?

Your College Planning Timeline for Early Deadlines

Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither should your application be. You need to take time filling out your application, thoughtfully writing about your extracurricular involvement, and proofreading all of the information for errors. Apart from filling out your app, you'll have to take time fulfilling other requirements. Three that demand the most planning and time are your personal essay, recommendation letters, and SAT or ACT scores.

You should spend a few months thinking about and writing your personal essay. Giving yourself space to brainstorm and mull over ideas is an important part of the writing process that can take weeks. Since your essay is such an important part of your application, you should spend a couple of months drafting, getting feedback, and revising it until it feels precise and authentic, almost like a work of art.

To meet an early deadline, you might begin working on your essay over the summer before senior year. While it's rare that the Common App changes its essay prompts, they have done so in the past. Common App announced these changes in August. Most recently, Common App made changes to its essay prompts in February 2021; you can learn all about those changes here .

Keep this in mind when working on your essay, but don't worry about drastic changes in the questions. Generally speaking, they all ask you to communicate something important about your identity and show how you make meaning of significant experiences in your life.

A second piece of your application that requires your attention early on is your recommendation letters . You should ask your counselor and teachers at least a month before your deadlines , likely by the end of September. You might also ask your junior year teachers at the end of 11th grade. Apart from making the request, you should also spend a week or so thinking about and filling out your "brag sheet," so that your recommenders have some thoughtful material to consult when they begin to write.

Finally, you want to leave yourself plenty of time to take the SAT or ACT . You might take the tests two or three times to achieve your target scores. You also would benefit from several months to study and improve. To apply for an early deadline, you'd ideally have your test scores all set by the end of junior year. You might be able to take the tests in September or October of senior year, but these dates should be a last resort, rather than a "make or break" test date.

Note : Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, many schools are waiving their SAT/ACT score requirements for the 2021-2022 application year (and beyond).

To reiterate, in order to be ready for early admissions deadlines, you'll want to: 

• work on your essays a few months before your November deadlines,
• ask for recommendations in junior year or September of senior year, and
• start prepping and planning for the SAT or ACT at the end of 10th or beginning of 11th grade.

Applying early to college is an increasingly popular option among students, but the majority of students still apply under regular decision. Read on to learn about regular decision deadlines and how they impact your college planning.

When Do You Apply Under Regular Decision?

The most common regular decision deadlines are in January and February . January 1 is a common date, making for a busy winter break! January 15 and January 31 are popular ones, too.

Some schools with January regular decision deadlines are Boston University, Harvard, NYU, and Yale, among many others. Students who apply under regular decision usually hear back about their admissions decisions in March or April. Since regular decision deadlines are in the winter, how does your college planning schedule differ from that to meet an early deadline?

Your College Planning Timeline for Regular Deadlines

In many ways, your college planning timeline for regular decision will be similar to the timeline for applying for early admission--but with some key differences. You have to consider how busy the fall of senior year is, both for you and for your teachers and counselors.

If your senior year schedule is packed with challenging courses and after school involvements, then you still might want to work on your essay over the summer months, when you have more time and focus for it. You also might still ask for your recommendations in September, or at least October. Some teachers set a cap on how many letters they'll write, and they probably don't want to spend their entire winter holiday writing letters. Try to ask early in the fall semester.

When you apply for regular decision, you might have one more opportunity to take the SAT or ACT in December. It's still advisable to take it at least once in junior year, and many students take it twice—in the fall of 11th grade and again in the spring. Again, you want to think about your schedule in the fall and how to best balance putting together a strong college application with all your other assignments, clubs, and/or sports.

Finally, some schools don't have set deadlines at all and are flexible about when applications arrive. This option is called rolling admissions.

When Do You Apply for Rolling Admissions?

Your timeline for applying for rolling admissions depends on a few factors and may vary from student to student. Schools with rolling admissions accept applications throughout a period of time , usually ranging from the fall to the spring. For example, the application for Indiana State University opened June 1 this year and will remain open through Spring 2022.

Since most schools with rolling admissions accept applications on a first come, first served basis—sometimes notifying you of admission only a few weeks after you submit—it's advisable to apply as early as possible. Sticking to an early deadline of November or regular deadline in January, even though you don't absolutely have to, is a good guideline to follow.

Not only will setting a deadline for yourself help you keep better track of your college planning, but it will help you apply early and thereby impress admissions officers, which gives you a better chance of admission.

Some schools with rolling admission also publicize a priority deadline, meaning students who apply by that deadline have an advantage. University of Maryland's priority deadline, for instance, is November 1. They'll still accept applications after, but you'll have improved chances if you apply by then.

So far, this article assumes that you're applying as a senior to go right into college. Of course, not all students immediately move onto college after graduating. Some choose to take a gap year or apply later in life. Others actually get a headstart on college and apply even younger. When do these students apply?

When Do You Apply If You're Not a High School Senior?

There are other timelines for applying to college besides the typical one that culminates in senior year. Maybe you want to work for a year or two before entering college. Maybe you have the opportunity to volunteer abroad or travel the world. Perhaps you graduated years ago and are now thinking about going back to school for your degree.

In these cases, you'll still apply to meet the same early or regular deadlines or rolling admissions time frame. However, you might need to leave yourself extra time to collect all your application materials. Let's consider each of the above situations individually.

"I Want to Take a Gap Year"

If this sounds like you, when do you apply for college? Actually, your timeline might still involve applying senior year. Lots of schools allow you to defer your admissions decision for a year. Deferring your admissions decision means you would still apply by an early or regular deadline, or rolling admissions, and then if you got accepted, you'd defer your enrollment for one academic year.

You might be thinking that you want to travel and then figure out where to go to college. This could be a good option too, but remember that your deadlines might still be in January. That means you'll still need to have your SAT scores finalized, letters of recommendation gathered, and essays written throughout the fall—possibly while you're traveling the world!

If applying to colleges while you’re traveling doesn’t sound like the plan for you, remember this: Not all that much time will have passed since high school, so it could be a lot easier to get your application materials collected while you're still in the swing of school and used to being a student.

If you've been out of school already for a year or two, then that's a different story.

"I'm Going Back to College After a Year or More Off"

If you've been out of high school for a while, then you'll probably have to reconnect with your school for teacher and counselor recommendations and official documents, like your transcript. if you haven't taken the SAT or ACT yet, then you may have to study and take one of those tests as well.

Your deadlines will be in November or December, as mentioned above, and you'll mostly want to follow similar steps, like asking for recommendations at least a month before your deadlines and leaving yourself a couple of opportunities to prep for and take the SAT or ACT.

If you've been out of school for several years, then colleges might not require you to take the SAT or ACT. You'll want to contact the colleges early to find out whether or not you need to prep for and take one of these exams.

It'd be advisable to leave yourself extra time so that you can meet with your recommenders and help them write you a letter. Since you're not a current student, you'll want to have extra time to set up appointments with faculty and gather all the documents you need.

Finally, when do students apply if they want to graduate high school earlier than senior year?

"I'm Graduating High School Early"

There are rare advanced students who earn enough credits, perhaps from courses at a local community college or online, to graduate high school early and go straight into college at a young age.

These students push their timeline earlier by a year or two, taking the SAT or ACT as freshmen or sophomores , and gathering all their documents early. If this sounds like you, you'll probably want to work closely with your counselors, administrators, and teachers to make sure they agree with your choice.

You might take your tests in freshmen and sophomore year, ask your sophomore year teachers for recommendations, and apply in the fall or winter of your junior year. You may also have to take the GED to earn the equivalent of your high school diploma. Make sure you've met all graduation requirements and, of course, have concrete, realistic reasons for graduating high school early and enrolling in college.

The aforementioned situations are exceptions rather than the rule, but can be great options if they apply to your situation and needs. In closing, let's review when most students submit their applications to colleges.

To Sum Up...

We've covered all the important details about the admissions plans available to you and what it takes to have your applications ready to go for each deadline. The majority of students apply to college in January or February of their senior year to meet regular decision deadlines. They hear back in April and choose a college by the national response date of May 1.

Other students might apply in November with early decision or early action, or through a range of time with rolling admissions.

To meet deadlines, college planning must start at least a year or two out. This includes prepping for the SAT or ACT and writing essays, but it also includes the time it takes to reflect on your interests, explore new ones, and think deeply about where you'd like to go to college.

As you explore and develop in high school, you should be thinking about your goals and what college communities would provide you with the intellectual climate and opportunities to thrive. This journey starts early in high school, and of course continues throughout the rest of your life.

What's Next?

Now that you have a sense of when to start applying for college, what about specific deadlines for schools? This guide has the full list of early decision deadlines , and this one has the complete list of early action deadlines .

Are you a younger student interested in getting more involved in community service? Learn all about community service here , plus check out the 9 best places to volunteer.

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:

Rebecca graduated with her Master's in Adolescent Counseling from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She has years of teaching and college counseling experience and is passionate about helping students achieve their goals and improve their well-being. She graduated magna cum laude from Tufts University and scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT.

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Holly R. "I am absolutely overjoyed and cannot thank you enough for helping me!”

Welcome to GreatSchools’ interactive college prep timeline!

Here’s what to do month-by-month, year-by-year, to get your high school student prepped for and successfully through the college application process.

See college prep timelines for:

11th grade college prep timeline, get organized for the college search.

There will be a ton of college info coming your teen’s way this year. Get ready with labeled folders, a notebook for jotting down notes and impressions, and a space to keep all the info close at hand.

Keep a reading list

A college counselor shares this forward-thinking tip: Have your teen keep a list of all the books she reads with a title and a short description of key themes. It’ll come in handy for essays and college applications. For inspiration, see our list of 101 books for college-bound teens .

Consider (affordable, online) help

Check out these four low-cost and free tools designed to help middle-class families with the college admissions process. For high-need, low-income, minority, and first-to-college students, check out these five organizations helping kids find the right college (and the money to pay for it).

Sign up for the October PSAT

Talk to the guidance counselor about getting your teen signed up for the PSAT — or use this tool to find a school near you that offers the PSAT if your school doesn’t. Teens who take the PSAT in October of their junior year may qualify for the National Merit Scholarship program , a great way to earn free money for college. Read more about taking the PSAT .

Understand college admissions tests

Learn more about the ACT vs. the SAT (and whether one may be a better fit for your teen than the other). Today’s ACT and SAT look very different from the tests parents remember. Here’s how they have changed .

Know your child’s Social Security number

Now is the time to make sure your child has a social security number and that you know it — your teen will need it for his college applications and financial aid forms.

Together, think about grades

Plan to meet with your child’s college counselor. Check your child’s regular and weighted GPA and class rank. If your child’s grades are already good, discuss strategies to help your teen stay on track. If your child’s grades aren’t so great, discuss strategies to improve. Colleges like to see an upward trend, so your child may want to think about the best ways to show improvement this year and next — through grades, class rank, and challenging classes.

Register your budding college athlete

If your child may play Division I or II sports in college, register your teen with NCAA Clearinghouse . It’s also a good time to meet with your child’s college counselor to learn more about what’s required and to make sure your teen is taking a core curriculum that meets college and NCAA requirements.

Help your teen make a college list

Start by making a list of the most important things your child is looking for in terms of location, size, cost, majors and courses of study, special programs, etc. Feel free to suggest schools, but experts caution not to omit schools your teen is interested in out of hand. (While finances are always a concern, many expensive schools have financial aid money to offer.)

Take the PSAT

Teens who take the PSAT in October of their junior year may qualify for the National Merit Scholarships program, a great way to earn free money for college .

Meet with a college counselor

Use this time to discuss your teen’s grades, courses taken and planned, testing strategies (like when to take the PSAT , SAT , ACT , etc.) and, of course, to get guidance on finding the right college for your child. If your child’s school doesn’t have a counselor, consider getting help from one of these organizations , an online advisor or a private admissions pro.

Start visiting colleges

Now is a great time to plan a few low-pressure, low-key college visits . Visiting college campuses, whether they’re nearby or far away, helps your child envision life in college and think about what may be the right fit in terms of campus size, location, and areas of study. Find out what the college and career center has to offer. Some schools organize campus visits for juniors and seniors.

Considering a military academy?

If your child dreams of entering one of the 5 U.S. military academies that train future officers, then talk to your child’s guidance counselor because your teen needs to start the military academy admission process sooner rather than later.

Prioritize, prioritize

Your junior may feel overwhelmed by the many things on her plate. You can help by talking through her priorities. Skip debate club to babysit? Maybe not. Study for a math test instead of going to preseason track practice? Most likely. When time is limited, it all comes down to what’s most important.

Keep those grades up!

Junior year grades speak volumes on your child’s college applications, so reinforce your teen’s good study habits , encourage him to get extra help and enough sleep , and don’t let him get overscheduled .

Help your teen understand the new SAT

After the biggest revision in three decades — and a new suite of free online test prep tools — the new SAT is a different experience .

SAT or ACT?

Help your child figure out which standardized tests — SAT vs. ACT , AP exams, etc., — they need to take and when they might take them. Look up when these test are offered and put registration and test dates on your calendar. Learn how to get an SAT or ACT fee waiver .

Make a test prep plan

Work backward from the dates when your child will be taking the SAT and/or ACT and decide on a test prep plan together. Read more about how you can help your child get ready for these tests .

Encourage your teen to stay involved

Kids who participate in extracurriculars have higher self-esteem and get better grades . Sticking with extracurriculars shows colleges that your child can keep a commitment, plus kids who stick with the same activity for one year are more likely to graduate from college — and sticking with the same activity for two years is associated with getting a job soon after college.

Visit a school or two

Wherever you are during winter break, try to tour a school or two. Great if you can visit a school your teen may apply to, but all college visits are informative. Help your teen visualize their college life by eating at the cafeteria and attending an event or visiting the library. Here’s how to prepare for college visits .

College planning for teens with ADHD

A successful college graduate with ADHD shares how she and her parents worked together to plan for college .

13 surprising tips for applying to college

From the lowdown on leadership and the “grandparent test” to free colleges (yes, free!), here are 13 tidbits all parents should know as your child heads into the college applications process.

5 best college admissions books

There are lots of titles out there — and you don’t need to read them all. Check out our 5 favorite college admissions books .

Help your teen get ready for college reading

Most high school students can still become stronger readers . Now is a great time to work on these skills. Here’s expert advice on how you can help your teen improve now — and avoid remediation down the line.

Don’t forget to register!

Is your child planning to take the SAT , ACT , or any AP exams this year? If so, now’s the time to register to take the right tests this spring. It’s a good idea for teens to take the SAT and/or the ACT in the spring of junior year. They can (and probably should) retake these tests in the fall of senior year.

Start planning next year’s schedule

Senior year is no time to slack off (especially not first semester). Encourage your child to choose a core course (or two) that’s a strong suit and encourage her to challenge herself by taking an AP or honors class. Remember that first semester next year will be busy with college applications, but colleges will consider your teen’s ongoing course load as a factor in those applications.

Visit (more) colleges on your teen’s list

Decide which colleges your teen should visit — both locally and farther away — and sign up for official tours when possible because visiting shows the school your student is serious about attending. Upcoming spring and summer breaks can be excellent times for college tours. Here’s how you can help your teen get the most out of a campus visit . (Can’t make it in person? Many schools offer official virtual tours .)

Make the most of this summer

How will your child spend this summer? Will they get a job , an internship , enroll in extra courses, or participate in a selective summer program? These options all look good on college applications — and may be fodder for an excellent college essay . Help your teen start their summer planning research (and, in most cases, applications) now.

Revisit that college list

What has your child learned about the colleges on her list since she made it last fall? Encourage your child to evaluate her list again. Are these really places she wants to study and live for four years?

Is your teen taking the SAT and/or ACT this May or June? If so, time to put your test prep plan into action.

Talk about letters of recommendation

Chances are, your teen will ask one or two of their current teachers to write a letter of recommendation for college. Talk to your child about cultivating positive relationships. Tips for getting to know teachers better: participate in class discussions, join a club a teacher mentors, stay after class to ask questions, ask for extra credit projects.

Let the scholarship search begin!

Now is the prime time for teens to start applying for scholarships. Start with this list of scholarships and check out this list of scholarships for first-generation college students , too. Bonus: In addition to free money, your child may get valuable essay-writing practice that’ll help with college apps next year. Learn more secrets of searching for college money . Note: beware these 13 common scholarship scams .

Do a social media audit

Make sure your teen has a “professional” email address to use on college applications. Go through your child’s many accounts together and make sure to deal with any information that might ruin your child’s chances at a top school if an admissions counselor were to find it (and yes, about 40% do check social media accounts when evaluating applications).

It’s almost AP exam time

If your child is taking an AP class this year, encourage them to register for and take the AP exam next month. A score of 4 or 5 on an AP exam qualifies for college credit at many schools.

Think about your family’s financial plan

Now is a good time to look into what college will cost and make an informed plan about how you (and your child) might pay for it. Here are 3 steps to get started:

• Read our high school parent’s guide to saving for college .
• Use the College Board’s net cost calculator to look up three schools on your child’s list for an estimate of what they’ll cost.
• Use the Dept. of Education’s net cost calculator to find out how much need-based funding your child may qualify for.

Help your teen show interest in a few colleges

In the admissions process, private colleges value signs of interest from applicants — like visiting the campus (in person or virtually ), doing an interview with an alumnus, and reaching out the admissions office to express interest and ask thoughtful, sincere questions.

Consider applying early decision and early action

Applying for early admission gives students better chances of getting in, but it’s important to understand what teens get — and maybe lose.

Track accomplishments!

It’s been a busy year. Have your teen take the time to write down the details of any awards, recognition, or other accomplishments that help him stand out. This will be helpful when filling out college applications.

Summer homework: Scholarships

Can your teen apply to one, two, or even three of these scholarships each month this summer? It sounds like a lot, but those awards could add up (and the essay-writing practice can only help). Note: check this list of scholarships for first-generation college students , too, and be sure your child’s too smart for these common scholarship scams .

Summer homework: Essay writing

Encourage your child to brainstorm college essay topics. Have your child look up a few college essay prompts for the schools on their list , choose topics to write about, create outlines, and write rough drafts. Extra credit for getting feedback from at least one person (especially a strong writer, teacher or tutor). It’ll reduce the pressure next fall.

Summer homework: Read, read, read

This summer, encourage your teen to read two long-form articles each week and 10 books from this list . The more teens read, the better they write.

Extra credit: Start applications this summer!

The more your child gets done this summer, the less stressful fall will be. Challenge your child to finish as many parts of their applications as they can, so there’s less to do next year.

Any chance you and your teen can visit the top 5 schools on your child’s list during the schools’ summer session? Whether or not you can go in person, encourage your teen to do a little online research and networking. If you have relatives or friends in college, encourage your teen to talk to them about what they like and don’t like about where they go.

About our 11th grade college prep timeline

The road to college can be complicated and confusing for students and parents alike. We’ve gathered unbiased and comprehensive information from multiple expert sources to create an inclusive timeline to help all aspiring college students — and their families — stay on top of the steps involved in applying to college.

Getting into college involves so much more than filling in applications. Our college prep timelines begin in 9th grade, helping parents and students understand concepts like the important distinction between classes that count toward high school graduation but not for college admission, the importance of identifying academic and extracurricular challenges, and the nuts and bolts of helping students learn to manage their time, participate in class discussions, and practice effective study habits.

For juniors, our timelines go deeper into helping students develop a college mentality, becoming stronger readers and writers, and helping students consider their personal learning and career goals and the different routes they might take to achieve their dreams.

There are a lot of important decisions for high school juniors to make. Our interactive timeline offers 11th grade college prep information, tips, and insights, month-by-month, to help parents and their high school juniors navigate the admissions tests, extra tests that can earn college credit, class choices, and academic skills necessary for college admission, without missing a single step. For example, our timelines help students and parents understand how and when to study for college admissions test, when to register and take them, why students should take them more than once, how to help students start thinking about college and make an initial college list, the pros and cons of applying early, and more.

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• Scholarship

College application timeline

Navigating the college application process can be overwhelming; we wrote this post to help!

We've outlined a complete college application timeline to guide you through each semester of your junior and senior years of high school. We've structured this timeline to help check one box at a time, so you can navigate this process stress free. Whichever universities you want to apply for - we have you covered! We've gathered the college application deadlines for over 440 colleges all right here in one place. After reading, you'll have a deeper understanding of the college application process and a guide to building a compelling application that sets you on the path to a bright and promising future.

So, let's dive right in!

Outline your goals Like with every journey you begin, setting your goals heads up gives you a clear vision and direction. Start by defining your academic and personal goals, and research potential colleges that align with them.

Meet with your counselor Schedule a meeting with your school's college counselor to discuss your plans and get a professional perspective.

Develop a prospective list of colleges There are several factors to consider in your research, such as location, culture, majors offered, and financial aid options.

Prepare for the AP exams You'll need to get ready for AP exams all semester long. Check the AP exam schedule , then manage your time effectively to prepare for them thoroughly.

Plan your ACT/SAT dates Make time to prepare and study for the ACT and SAT, especially if you plan to apply to schools requiring a test score. Schedule your test date with plenty of time to study and prepare.

Gather recommendations Choose teachers who know you well and ask them for letters of recommendation. For more robust recommendations, provide them with a list of your achievements and relevant interactions they could include from the class or activity where they interacted with you.

Start writing your college essays Start writing your essays early, and be prepared to make multiple rounds of revisions. Seek professional feedback from your teachers and counselors rather than just relying on your parents - they will have an objective view of your writing.

College visits Start visiting the colleges on your list, prioritizing your top choices. Get the most out of your visits by attending information sessions, taking tours, and speaking with current students.

Start generating ideas Think about what you'll be doing as your passion project/capstone project over the summer.

Research financial aid options and scholarships Gather the necessary documents for the FAFSA and other financial aid applications.

Here's what you can do during the summer break to stay on track:

Take your final ACT or SAT Consider retaking them to improve your scores if necessary. Focus on studying and practicing your weakest areas in between takes.

Open all application accounts The most common are the Common App, Coalition App, and University of California applications. Fill out your demographic information and any sections you can complete, like basic info.

Finish your essays Complete your essays before the beginning of your senior year to ensure a solid start and avoid stress.

Complete all the work you need for your passion project/capstone project You'll rarely have time to do more during the school year once activities start back up. Do this now if you can.

Follow up with your letter of recommendation writers Make sure they have already submitted their letters of recommendation, or if not, politely remind them to get them on track.

Apply for Financial Aid Complete the required financial aid applications while keeping track of deadlines. (More details on FAFSA here .) If you're applying for merit scholarships, get ahead of those too.

Engage in productive summer activities Look for internships, volunteering, or academic programs. If possible, find activities that tie into your upcoming major or that relate to the interests you've written about in your essays.

Finalize your college list Get a final college list together utilizing what you learned during your research and visits. Then, request that all standardized test scores be sent to those colleges.

Consider applying early decision If early decision is an option any of your top desired colleges offer, you should consider it - early decision admission rates are often much higher. Just be aware that you will be legally bound to attend that college if they admit you.

Start finalizing your essays and applications If you want to submit an early application, you'll need to be aware of the deadlines for that application. Keep an eye on calendars and ensure you're on track with your other colleges' deadlines.

Check in with recommendation letters Deadlines should be arriving during the fall semester - make sure to check in with any unfinished letter writers at least one week before their letter is due.

For regular decision schools Make sure to complete your supplemental essays before the end of November to give yourself plenty of time to have them reviewed and edited.

Finalize and submit applications Complete your paperwork for regular decision schools.

Prepare for interviews If interviews are required in your application process, prepare for them. Research each college you'll interview with, and practice your interview skills with a parent, teacher, counselor, or other adult confidant.

Check your application status Review the colleges' application platform and ensure all your materials have been received and processed.

Research and apply for scholarships There are so many scholarships for different fields, regions, backgrounds, and other things - do some research to see if any apply to you and give them a shot.

Keep an eye out for admission decisions This is around when your decisions should start arriving. Celebrate your wins, and don't let rejections or waitlist notifications discourage you!

Evaluate financial aid offers Consult with your family to decide which college offers the best package of financial aid and overall fit for your future.

Make your final decision It's time to decide the college you'll be attending! Submit your enrollment deposit by May 1st.

Send thank-you notes Reach out to your teachers, letter writers, and counselors who helped you. They did a lot of hard work for you and deserve to be recognized!

Prepare for your transition to college! Start by attending any orientation programs and reviewing your potential classes. Prepare to survive your first week of college and succeed throughout freshman year!

Let's get specific. Below are the college application deadlines for ~450 of the top colleges in the country. Always double-check these on the college's admissions website (links included below), as they are subject to change.

Amherst College ( link to admissions website )

Princeton University ( link to admissions website )

Boston College ( link to admissions website )

Bowdoin College ( link to admissions website )

Brown University ( link to admissions website )

Caltech ( link to admissions website )

Columbia University ( link to admissions website )

Cornell University ( link to admissions website )

Dartmouth College ( link to admissions website )

Duke University ( link to admissions website )

Emory University ( link to admissions website )

Georgetown University ( link to admissions website )

Harvard University ( link to admissions website )

John Hopkins University ( link to admissions website )

Massachusetts Institute of Technology ( link to admissions website )

New York University ( link to admissions website )

Northwestern University ( link to admissions website )

Pomona College ( link to admissions website )

Smith College ( link to admissions website )

Stanford University ( link to admissions website )

Swathmore College ( link to admissions website )

Tufts University ( link to admissions website )

University of Chicago ( link to admissions website )

University of Michigan ( link to admissions website )

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ( link to admissions website )

University of Notre Dome ( link to admissions website )

University of Pennsylvania (UPenn) ( link to admissions website )

University of Southern California ( link to admissions website )

University of Virginia ( link to admissions website )

Vanderbilt University ( link to admissions website )

Wellesley College ( link to admissions website )

Williams College ( link to admissions website )

Yale University ( link to admissions website )

Rice University ( link to admissions website )

Washington University in St. Louis ( link to admissions website )

University of California, Berkeley ( link to admissions website )

University of California, Los Angeles ( link to admissions website )

Carnegie Mellon University ( link to admissions website )

University of Florida ( link to admissions website )

Wake Forest University ( link to admissions website )

University of California, Santa Barbara ( link to admissions website )

University of California, Irvine ( link to admissions website )

University of California, San Diego ( link to admissions website )

University of Rochester ( link to admissions website )

University of California, Davis ( link to admissions website )

University of Texas at Austin ( link to admissions website )

University of Wisconsin, Madison ( link to admissions website )

University of Illinois Urbana, Champaign ( link to admissions website )

William and Mary ( link to admissions website )

Brandeis University ( link to admissions website )

Case Western Reserve University ( link to admissions website )

Georgia Institute of Technology ( link to admissions website )

Northeastern University ( link to admissions website )

Tulane University ( link to admissions website )

The Ohio State University ( link to admissions website )

University of Georgia ( link to admissions website )

Lehigh University ( link to admissions website )

Purdue University, West Lafayette ( link to admissions website )

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute ( link to admissions website )

Villanova University ( link to admissions website )

Florida State University ( link to admissions website )

Pepperdine University ( link to admissions website )

Rutgers University, New Brunswick ( link to admissions website )

Santa Clara University ( link to admissions website )

University of Maryland, College Park ( link to admissions website )

University of Miami ( link to admissions website )

University of Washington ( link to admissions website )

George Washington University ( link to admissions website )

Syracuse University ( link to admissions website )

University of Minnesota, Twin Cities ( link to admissions website )

University of Pittsburgh ( link to admissions website )

Virginia Tech ( link to admissions website )

Texas A&M University ( link to admissions website )

University of Connecticut ( link to admissions website )

University of Massachusetts, Amherst ( link to admissions website )

Worcester Polytechnic Institute ( link to admissions website )

Yeshiva University ( link to admissions website )

American University ( link to admissions website )

Fordham University ( link to admissions website )

Indiana University, Bloomington ( link to admissions website )

North Carolina State University ( link to admissions website )

Southern Methodist University ( link to admissions website )

Baylor University ( link to admissions website )

Clemson University ( link to admissions website )

Loyola Marymount University ( link to admissions website )

Michigan State University ( link to admissions website )

The Pennsylvania State University, University Park ( link to admissions website )

Stony Brook University, SUNY ( link to admissions website )

Binghamton University, SUNY ( link to admissions website )

Gonzaga University ( link to admissions website )

Marquette University ( link to admissions website )

Stevens Institute of Technology ( link to admissions website )

University of California, Santa Cruz ( link to admissions website )

University of Iowa ( link to admissions website )

Brigham Young University, Provo ( link to admissions website )

Colorado School of Mines ( link to admissions website )

Elon University ( link to admissions website )

Howard University ( link to admissions website )

Texas Christian University ( link to admissions website )

University at Buffalo, SUNY ( link to admissions website )

University of California, Riverside ( link to admissions website )

University of California, Merced ( link to admissions website )

Auburn University ( link to admissions website )

Clark University ( link to admissions website )

New Jersey Institute of Technology ( link to admissions website )

University of Colorado Boulder ( link to admissions website )

University of Illinois, Chicago ( link to admissions website )

University of San Diego ( link to admissions website )

University of South Florida ( link to admissions website )

Drexel University ( link to admissions website )

Miami University, Oxford ( link to admissions website )

Rochester Institute of Technology ( link to admissions website )

Saint Louis University ( link to admissions website )

SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry ( link to admissions website )

University of Arizona ( link to admissions website )

University of Denver ( link to admissions website )

University of Oregon ( link to admissions website )

University of San Francisco ( link to admissions website )

University of Utah ( link to admissions website )

Creighton University ( link to admissions website )

Fairfield University ( link to admissions website )

Loyola University Chicago ( link to admissions website )

Rutgers University, Newark ( link to admissions website )

University of South Carolina ( link to admissions website )

University of Tennessee, Knoxville ( link to admissions website )

Arizona State University ( link to admissions website )

Chapman University ( link to admissions website )

Temple University ( link to admissions website )

University of Kansas ( link to admissions website )

University of Missouri ( link to admissions website )

University of Vermont ( link to admissions website )

Clarkson University ( link to admissions website )

Gallaudet University ( link to admissions website )

Illinois Institute of Technology ( link to admissions website )

Iowa State University of Science and Technology ( link to admissions website )

The New School ( link to admissions website )

Rutgers University, Camden ( link to admissions website )

Samford University ( link to admissions website )

Thomas Jefferson University ( link to admissions website )

University of Dayton ( link to admissions website )

University of Oklahoma ( link to admissions website )

California State University, Long Beach ( link to admissions website )

DePaul University ( link to admissions website )

Drake University ( link to admissions website )

Seattle University ( link to admissions website )

Seton Hall University ( link to admissions website )

University of Alabama ( link to admissions website )

University of Alabama at Birmingham ( link to admissions website )

University of Central Florida ( link to admissions website )

University of Kentucky ( link to admissions website )

University of Maryland, Baltimore County ( link to admissions website )

University of New Hampshire ( link to admissions website )

University of St. Thomas ( link to admissions website )

University of Tulsa ( link to admissions website )

Colorado State University ( link to admissions website )

CUNY, City College ( link to admissions website )

Duquesne University ( link to admissions website )

James Madison University ( link to admissions website )

Michigan Technological University ( link to admissions website )

Oregon State University ( link to admissions website )

San Diego State University ( link to admissions website )

Simmons University ( link to admissions website )

University of Cincinnati ( link to admissions website )

University of La Verne ( link to admissions website )

University of Mississippi ( link to admissions website )

University of Nebraska, Lincoln ( link to admissions website )

The University of Texas at Dallas ( link to admissions website )

University of the Pacific ( link to admissions website )

Bradley University ( link to admissions website )

California State University, Fullerton ( link to admissions website )

Hofstra University ( link to admissions website )

Kansas State University ( link to admissions website )

Mercer University ( link to admissions website )

Quinnipiac University ( link to admissions website )

St. John's University (NY)

University of Hawaii at Manoa ( link to admissions website )

Virginia Commonwealth University ( link to admissions website )

Xavier University ( link to admissions website )

The Catholic University of America ( link to admissions website )

Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge ( link to admissions website )

University of Arkansas ( link to admissions website )

University of Idaho ( link to reference website )

University of Massachusetts, Lowell ( link to admissions website )

Valparaiso University ( link to admissions website )

Adelphi University ( link to admissions website )

Belmont University ( link to admissions website )

Missouri University of Science and Technology ( link to admissions website )

Montclair State University ( link to admissions website )

Ohio University ( link to admissions website )

Oklahoma State University ( link to admissions website )

Stockton University ( link to admissions website )

Touro University ( link to reference website )

University at Albany, SUNY ( link to admissions website )

University of Houston ( link to admissions website )

University of Louisville ( link to admissions website )

University of Rhode Island ( link to admissions website )

Biola University ( link to admissions website )

California State University, San Bernardino ( link to admissions website )

Chatham University ( link to admissions website )

Mississippi State University ( link to admissions website )

Pacific University ( link to admissions website )

Robert Morris University ( link to reference website )

Rowan University ( link to admissions website )

Union University ( link to admissions website )

Florida A&M University ( link to admissions website )

Florida Institute of Technology ( link to admissions website )

Indiana University-Purdue University, Indianapolis ( link to admissions website )

La Salle University ( link to admissions website )

Loyola University New Orleans ( link to admissions website )

Springfield College ( link to admissions website )

St. John Fisher University ( link to admissions website )

University of Detroit Mercy ( link to admissions website )

University of North Carolina, Wilmington ( link to admissions website )

University of Wyoming ( link to reference website )

Ball State University ( link to admissions website )

Bethel University (MN) ( link to admissions website )

Kent State University ( link to admissions website )

Lipscomb University ( link to admissions website )

University of Missouri, St. Louis ( link to admissions website )

University of New Mexico ( link to admissions website )

Washington State University ( link to admissions website )

Hampton University ( link to admissions website )

Illinois State University ( link to admissions website )

Keiser University ( link to reference website )

Misericordia University ( link to admissions website )

Nova Southeastern University ( link to admissions website )

Russell Sage College ( link to admissions website )

Sacred Heart University ( link to admissions website )

Seattle Pacific University ( link to admissions website )

Texas Tech University ( link to admissions website )

University of Colorado Denver ( link to admissions website )

University of Lynchburg ( link to admissions website )

University of Maine ( link to admissions website )

University of North Carolina at Greensboro ( link to admissions website )

University of North Carolina, Charlotte ( link to admissions website )

Bellarmine University ( link to admissions website )

The College of St. Scholastica ( link to admissions website )

East Carolina University ( link to admissions website )

Georgia State University ( link to admissions website )

Maryville University of St. Louis ( link to reference website )

Oklahoma City University ( link to reference website )

Pace University ( link to admissions website )

San Francisco State University ( link to admissions website )

St. Catherine University ( link to admissions website )

Suffolk University ( link to admissions website )

University of Hartford ( link to admissions website )

University of Massachusetts, Boston ( link to admissions website )

University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth ( link to admissions website )

Western New England University ( link to admissions website )

West Virginia University ( link to admissions website )

Wilkes University ( link to admissions website )

Abilene Christian University ( link to admissions website )

California State University, Fresno ( link to admissions website )

Central Michigan University ( link to admissions website )

Immaculata University ( link to reference website )

Marian University (IN) ( link to admissions website )

Regis University ( link to admissions website )

University of North Dakota ( link to admissions website )

University of Puerto Rico, Rio Piedras ( link to reference website )

University of St. Thomas (TX) ( link to reference website )

University of Wisconsin, La Crosse ( link to admissions website )

Utah State University ( link to admissions website )

Wayne State University ( link to admissions website )

West Chester University of Pennsylvania ( link to reference website )

Azusa Pacific University ( link to admissions website )

Bowling Green State University ( link to admissions website )

Florida Atlantic University ( link to admissions website )

Gannon University ( link to admissions website )

George Fox University ( link to admissions website )

Grand Valley State University ( link to admissions website )

Harding University ( link to reference website )

Montana State University ( link to admissions website )

New Mexico State University ( link to admissions website )

Oakland City University ( link to reference website )

Point Park University ( link to admissions website )

Sam Houston State University ( link to admissions website )

Southern Illinois University, Carbondale ( link to admissions website )

St. Ambrose University

University of Alabama at Huntsville

University of Indianapolis ( link to admissions website )

University of Memphis ( link to admissions website )

University of Missouri, Kansas City ( link to admissions website )

University of Nevada, Reno ( link to admissions website )

University of North Florida ( link to admissions website )

University of South Dakota ( link to reference website )

Western Carolina University ( link to admissions website )

Baker University ( link to reference website )

Clarke University ( link to reference website )

DeSales University ( link to admissions website )

North Dakota State University ( link to admissions website )

Portland State University ( link to admissions website )

Tennessee Tech University ( link to reference website )

University of Hawaii at Hilo ( link to admissions website )

University of Montana ( link to admissions website )

University of Nevada, Las Vegas ( link to admissions website )

University of New England ( link to admissions website )

University of North Texas ( link to admissions website )

University of Toledo ( link to admissions website )

Western Michigan University ( link to admissions website )

Winston-Salem State University ( link to admissions website )

Andrews University ( link to admissions website )

Campbell University ( link to admissions website )

D'Youville University ( link to admissions website )

Lincoln Memorial University

Marshall University ( link to reference website )

Marymount University ( link to admissions website )

The Master's University and Seminary ( link to admissions website )

Middle Tennessee State University ( link to admissions website )

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University ( link to admissions website )

Old Dominion University ( link to admissions website )

Regent University ( link to admissions website )

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota ( link to admissions website )

Shenandoah University ( link to admissions website )

University of Nebraska Omaha ( link to admissions website )

University of St. Francis ( link to admissions website )

The University of Texas at Arlington ( link to admissions website )

University of Texas Rio Grande Valley ( link to admissions website )

University of the Incarnate Word ( link to reference website )

Alvernia University ( link to reference website )

Arkansas State University ( link to reference website )

Concordia University, Irvine ( link to admissions website )

Concordia University, Wisconsin ( link to reference website )

East Tennessee State University ( link to admissions website )

Louisiana Tech University ( link to reference website )

Mississippi College ( link to reference website )

Morgan State University ( link to admissions website )

Northern Arizona University ( link to admissions website )

South Dakota State University ( link to admissions website )

University of Findlay ( link to reference website )

Walsh University ( link to admissions website )

William Carey University ( link to admissions website )

Alabama State University ( link to admissions website )

Alliant International University ( link to reference website )

American International College ( link to admissions website )

Augusta University ( link to admissions website )

Aurora University ( link to admissions website )

Barry University ( link to admissions website )

Belhaven University ( link to admissions website )

Boise State University ( link to admissions website )

Brenau University ( link to admissions website )

Briar Cliff University ( link to reference website )

California State University, East Bay ( link to admissions website )

Capitol Technology University ( link to admissions website )

Cardinal Stritch University ( link to admissions website )

Carson-Newman University ( link to reference website )

Clark Atlanta University ( link to admissions website )

Cleveland State University ( link to admissions website )

Colorado Technical University ( link to reference website )

Daemen University ( link to admissions website )

Dallas Baptist University ( link to reference website )

Dominican University New York ( link to admissions website )

Eastern Kentucky University ( link to admissions website )

Eastern Michigan University ( link to admissions website )

Edgewood College ( link to reference website )

Ferris State University ( link to admissions website )

Florida Gulf Coast University ( link to admissions website )

Gardner-Webb University ( link to admissions website )

Georgia Southern University ( link to admissions website )

Grand Canyon University ( link to admissions website )

Gwynedd Mercy University ( link to reference website )

Hardin-Simmons University ( link to admissions website )

Husson University ( link to reference website )

Idaho State University ( link to admissions website )

Indiana State University ( link to admissions website )

Indiana University of Pennsylvania ( link to reference website )

Jackson State University ( link to reference website )

Kean University ( link to admissions website )

Kennesaw State University ( link to admissions website )

Lamar University ( link to admissions website )

Lesley University ( link to admissions website )

Liberty University ( link to admissions website )

Long Island University ( link to reference website )

Mary Baldwin University ( link to reference website )

Missouri State University ( link to reference website )

Mount St. Joseph University ( link to reference website )

National Louis University ( link to admissions website )

Northern Illinois University ( link to admissions website )

Northern Kentucky University ( link to reference website )

Oakland University ( link to admissions website )

Oral Roberts University ( link to reference website )

Our Lady of the Lake University ( link to admissions website )

Palm Beach Atlantic University ( link to admissions website )

Prairie View A&M University ( link to admissions website )

Purdue University Global ( link to admissions website )

Radford University ( link to admissions website )

Roosevelt University ( link to reference website )

Saint Leo University ( link to admissions website )

South College ( link to admissions website )

Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary ( link to admissions website )

Southeastern University ( link to reference website )

Southern Illinois University Edwardsville ( link to reference website )

St. Thomas University ( link to admissions website )

Tarleton State University ( link to admissions website )

Tennessee State University ( link to admissions website )

Texas A&M University, Commerce ( link to reference website )

Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi ( link to admissions website )

Texas A&M University, Kingsville ( link to admissions website )

Texas Southern University ( link to admissions website )

Texas State University ( link to admissions website )

Texas Wesleyan University ( link to admissions website )

Texas Woman's University ( link to admissions website )

Trevecca Nazarene University ( link to admissions website )

Trinity International University ( link to reference website )

Universidad Ana G. Mendez, Gurabo Campus ( link to reference website )

The University of Akron ( link to admissions website )

University of Alaska, Fairbanks ( link to admissions website )

University of Arkansas at Little Rock ( link to admissions website )

University of Bridgeport ( link to admissions website )

University of Central Arkansas ( link to admissions website )

University of Charleston ( link to admissions website )

University of Colorado Colorado Springs ( link to admissions website )

University of Houston, Clear Lake ( link to admissions website )

University of Louisiana at Lafayette ( link to admissions website )

University of Louisiana at Monroe ( link to admissions website )

University of Mary ( link to admissions website )

University of Mary Hardin-Baylor ( link to reference website )

University of Maryland, Eastern Shore ( link to admissions website )

University of Michigan, Flint ( link to admissions website )

University of New Orleans ( link to admissions website )

University of Northern Colorado ( link to admissions website )

University of Phoenix ( link to reference website )

University of Pikeville ( link to reference website )

University of South Alabama ( link to admissions website )

University of Southern Mississippi ( link to admissions website )

University of Tennessee at Chattanooga ( link to admissions website )

The University of Texas at El Paso ( link to admissions website )

University of Texas at San Antonio ( link to admissions website )

The University of Texas at Tyler ( link to admissions website )

University of the Cumberlands ( link to reference website )

University of West Georgia ( link to admissions website )

University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee ( link to admissions website )

University of Wisconsin, Oshkosh ( link to reference website )

Valdosta State University ( link to admissions website )

Western Kentucky University ( link to admissions website )

Wichita State University ( link to admissions website )

William Woods University ( link to admissions website )

Wilmington University

Wingate University ( link to admissions website )

Wright State University ( link to admissions website )

Albizu University, Miami ( link to reference website )

George Mason University ( link to admissions website )

Loma Linda University ( link to reference website )

Southern University and A&M College ( link to admissions website )

University of Massachusetts Global ( link to admissions website )

Junior Year: College Applications Timeline

Though most of your applications will be completed and submitted during your senior year of high school, your junior year is of utmost importance when it comes to the college process.

Focus on Academics

During your junior year, most of your energy and attention should be devoted to your academics. The classes you take during your junior year are among the most important on your transcript—junior spring grades may be the last full semester that some colleges evaluate prior to making an admissions decision.

If you received a lower grade in some of your freshman or sophomore year classes, don’t be discouraged. Colleges don’t only look for strong grades, but also for an upward trajectory in your GPA.

When attending college information sessions or reading about admissions, you will often hear the phrase “strength of schedule.” This essentially means that you are being evaluated in part within the context of your school. If your school offers many AP or IB classes, you will be expected to take advantage of the opportunity to challenge yourself. Conversely, you will not be penalized for having fewer advanced classes on your transcript if your high school does not offer them.

Standardized Testing

Another element of your junior year will be standardized testing—the SAT, ACT, or both. You will also take the PSAT at your high school in the fall of your junior year. Though it is often viewed as practice for the SAT, take this test seriously since you may qualify for National Merit Scholarships based on your scores. Your PSAT results can also help guide your study efforts for the SAT.

During your junior year, you will devote a significant amount of time and effort to studying for the SAT. There are many free online resources, test preparation books, and test preparation tutors. As the college admissions landscape evolves, more and more colleges are becoming test optional. However, sitting for the SAT or ACT will help you keep your options open, and strong scores can be an asset to your application.

Many students take both the SAT and the ACT. The ACT requires a science section in addition to the sections required by the ACT, but the tests are similar enough that time spent studying for one test will benefit you on the other as well. I recommend sitting for the SAT or ACT in the late fall of your junior year so that you have ample opportunities to retake the tests. Check the SAT and ACT testing dates on their respective websites to ensure that you don’t miss registration deadlines.

Some colleges and universities also require SAT Subject Tests. Though many top schools require them, almost all schools will consider them if submitted. Since many of the subjects are aligned with APs and high school classes, it is to your benefit to register for tests that occur near the end of the corresponding class.

Build Your Extracurricular Profile

Junior year is a great time to bolster your extracurricular profile. Extracurriculars include everything from summer jobs and volunteering to family responsibilities and student government. Though extracurriculars cannot substitute for strong grades, colleges will be interested in how you spend your time outside of classes.

Consistency is key for strengthening your activities and honors list. When looking at your list, colleges will note whether you have been involved in an activity since freshman year or started pursuing it at the end of your junior year. Thus, the early fall of junior year is an ideal time to consider your involvement and adjust the way you spend your time, if needed.

Colleges will evaluate your extracurriculars holistically to see if there is a common theme in your interests. Your activities may align with your intended major, but don’t hesitate to include extracurriculars that may not seem as connected to the others. Perhaps you could become involved in a club that is tangential to a volunteer opportunity from the prior summer? Maybe you decide to work at a restaurant a few hours per week?

The fall of junior year is also an ideal time to continue or start demonstrating growth in your extracurricular involvement. While there are a limited number of official leadership positions in high school, there are a multitude of opportunities to be a leader in a less official capacity. You can be a leader in the classroom, champion an initiative in a club, organize a service project for your class, or play a significant role on a sports team.

During the spring of your junior year, formulate a plan for your upcoming summer. The summer before your senior year is an optimal time to explore a potential career field in an unpaid internship, shadow an adult in a career that interests you, or work a job to save money for college. I also recommend using your summer to learn about colleges. Visit campuses in person if you are able, but also take advantage of online resources such as tours, webinars, and information sessions. Talk with current college students to learn about their experiences and majors.

Recommendation Letters

At the end of your junior year or the very beginning of your senior year, you will want to ask teachers for letters of recommendation. These letters should ideally come from your junior year teachers, especially if you plan on applying to schools through Early Action or Early Decision programs. Throughout your junior year, focus on building relationships with your teachers; colleges want to read letters written by teachers who know you the best, not just the teacher whose class you earned a high grade in.

The suggestions outlined above are based on the typical application timeline, so don’t be concerned if you are on a slightly different schedule, particularly for standardized testing. And of course, the college application process is unique for each student and their family. Whether you are in the midst of your junior year or looking ahead to next year, know that it is a crucial time for your academics and extracurriculars but also an important time to learn about colleges and your own interests.

This informational essay was written by Caroline Marapese, Notre Dame ‘20. If you want to get help writing your Notre Dame application essays from Caroline or other Bullseye Admissions advisors , register with CollegeAdvisor.com today.

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Applying to College: A High School Student's Timeline

By Faith Walessa

Today, high school; tomorrow, college—it can feel overwhelming here are some tips for high school students, year by year, to be ready when application time comes..

When you’re young, you reach a certain point in life where everything starts to feel like a transition stage. As you go through middle school, you’re flooded with high school advice. When you get to high school, you hope that you’ve finally arrived … then you find out just how much transitioning is left. It seems that everything–extracurriculars, volunteering, work experience–is designed to prepare you for what at first is only a concept: college. It begins as a misty, far-off place, but gets a little bit clearer with every year in high school as your plans, goals, and dream schools begin to grow into sketches, outlines, and eventually full-color pictures.

Trying to figure out everything you should and shouldn’t do to have a successful high school experience and prepare for college can feel overwhelming. Read on to discover a helpful timeline offering you the best steps to take each year of high school so you can confidently approach the college application process!

For Freshmen

At this point, you’re still getting used to high school life, and college is a secondary priority. As a freshman, you should begin researching colleges and trying to make a list of your tentative top 5-10 schools. Begin to think about what types of careers you want to pursue and what majors those would require. With this in mind, try to plan out your future high school course list by semester so you can be sure of meeting requirements to be admitted into these programs.

At the same time, remember you don’t have to hone in on a future major yet! Now is the time to explore a variety of interests. Many of CLT’s Partner Colleges follow a liberal arts model that sets aside the first one to two years for a general curriculum, giving students more time to decide on a major.

Next, start looking into costs of different schools and having discussions with your parents, guardians, or guidance counselor.

Finally, create a spreadsheet on which to record your extracurriculars, work, and volunteer experience. Keep track of specific roles you played, examples of leadership, and the amount of time you were part of each activity. Continually update this list; it will be invaluable when you have to put together a resumé to apply to colleges your senior year.

In omnibus requiem quæsivi, et nusquam inveni nisi in angulo cum libro. By every means I have sought rest, and have never yet found it except in a corner with a book. St. Thomas à Kempis

For Sophomores

By sophomore year, you’ll hopefully have more clarity of your ideas of future careers. You can start taking more specialized classes that should help you discover or rule out more specific interests. Remember to continue updating your list of extracurriculars and experience, and try to join activities that will highlight your interests (for example, prospective English majors could join a school newspaper or writer’s club, while an hopeful engineer could participate in a robotics club or coding competition).

Use these experiences to narrow down the list you made the year before of your colleges of interest. Specifically search for universities or colleges that are well-known for your areas of interest and that you think will help you to succeed.

I found it helpful to make a list of non-negotiable requirements that a college I hoped to attend had to meet. These requirements could take the form of a certain approach to education (classical, liberal arts, etc.), a certain religion, a certain program offered, or even a certain student body size. However, I would recommend not limiting yourself by either location or price. Try to be equally open to the idea of living either at home or in residence, and remember that scholarships can have a massive effect on the tuition you end up paying. At this point in the process, you should also begin thinking about which schools interest you enough to warrant a visit day where you can attend classes, meet students, and gain valuable specifics about the atmosphere and life on campus.

For Juniors

Try to form a “top three” list and book your college visits accordingly. If a visit is impossible, make sure to at least attend lots of webinars, get in touch with your admissions counselor, or even book a personal information session. If you feel ready, most colleges will also allow you to have your official admissions interview in junior year. During school, continue to take difficult courses, sign up for extracurriculars (keep that list up to date!), and look into job and volunteer experience that will benefit you as an applicant and help you stand out.

For Seniors

It’s time for all your hard work to pay off! Apply first semester to at least those top three colleges, and consider applying as an Early Decision student with your number one choice school for extra scholarship consideration. About a month before application deadlines, talk to the teachers that you feel would represent you best as a student and ask them to write your reference letters. Consult that list of extracurriculars and experience that you’ve been updating faithfully since ninth grade and put together a strong, concise activity resumé that puts your most valuable skills towards the top. Finally, remember to continue keeping up your grades so they won’t affect a conditional acceptance.

Best of luck to all of you!

__________________________________________________________________________________

Faith Walessa is a rising senior from Ontario, Canada. She hopes to study English at Hillsdale College, write books, and someday travel to England. She loves fanciful poetry, theater, reading by flashlight, and mint chocolate chip ice cream.

If you enjoyed this piece and would like to see more of Miss Walessa’s work, you can find other posts of hers on college prep, interviews she has conducted for CLT, and even a short story contributed to the Journal here . You might also enjoy our series profiling the great minds of the CLT Author Bank, from ancients like the Epic of Gilgamesh and St. Athanasius , through writers of the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the Enlightenment such as Avicenna , Christine de Pizan , and René Descartes , to moderns like Virginia Woolf and George Orwell . Thank you for reading the Journal.

Published on 7th November, 2023.

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College Application Timeline: Planning Ahead

Julia de Raadt

Head of research and lead admissions expert, table of contents, college application timeline.

Stay up-to-date on the latest research and college admissions trends with our blog team.

For many students, the sheer volume of work to be done throughout the college application process seems incredibly daunting. In this post, we will provide a rough roadmap. This sample college application timeline indicates when you might want to aim to have certain portions of the applications completed.

Of course, this is merely a suggestion. As such, it would need to be tailored to the needs of the particular student. Nonetheless, looking at an example can help get your gears turning.

Sample College App Timeline: Summer

Sample college app timeline: fall semester.

In conclusion, this is just rough estimate of your college process. Again, this will likely look different for every student, depending on your typical routines! However, this can give you an idea of when you want to start thinking about the various components of your application. Beyond that, you can craft your own college application timeline for yourself!

For more help with and guidance on this process, visit the Empowerly college counseling community. For instance, you can book a consultation below! You can do it!

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The Complete College Application Timeline for High Schoolers

by Chris | Aug 17, 2015 | College Readiness | 0 comments

When should you start planning your college applications?

Whether you’re a freshman, sophomore, junior, or senior in high school, it isn’t too late! Take a look at this list to help keep yourself on track.

COLLEGE APPLICATION TIMELINE

• Start thinking broadly about college.
• Work hard in all of your classes.
• Find extracurriculars you love.
• Keep track of all grades, awards and honors, and activities.
• Take honors or advanced classes if possible.
• Do something productive over the summer!

10 th Grade

• Take a practice PSAT or ACT Aspire if possible
• Continue extracurricular activities.
• Athletes and artists, familiarize yourselves with your timelines and options
• Keep updating your list of grades, awards and honors, and activities.

11 th Grade

• Take the PSAT or ACT Aspire.
• Make a testing plan for when you’ll take the SAT or ACT. Allow for retests.
• Start SAT or ACT test prep.
• Research colleges in college guides both in print and online
• Register for SAT or ACT in winter or spring of junior year.
• Register for SAT Subject tests, if applicable.
• Create a long-list of 15 to 20 colleges you’re considering
• Consider selectivity and cost
• Save samples of your best academic work
• Start thinking about summer plans (internship, job, camp, program, etc.)
• Narrow your long-list down to a short-list (based on visits, selectivity, your scores, finances, happiness, etc.)
• Consult with your counselor about your college list and college recommendations
• Ask two teachers to write recommendations
• Artists, complete any audition tapes, art portfolios, theatre audition pieces, or special materials required for admission or scholarship consideration at prospective schools
• Athletes, if you hope to play Division I or II sports in college, register with the NCAA Eligibility Center.
• Visit colleges over the summer if possible
• Begin work on college essays. Try to have your Personal Essay in good shape by the beginning of your senior year

12 th Grade

• Finalize list of the 8 to 10 schools to which you’ll apply
• Decide if you’ll be applying anywhere Early Decision or Early Action
• Make a list of deadlines, required essays, and financial aid requirements
• Visit colleges and schedule interview if desired
• Check in with teachers regarding recommendations and provide them the list of schools to which you’re applying, deadlines, any required forms, andanything else they request
• Provide your counselor with your list of schools and deadlines for submitting transcripts, the School Report, and midyear grades
• Finish your college essays
• Take the SAT or ACT again, if needed
• Register for CSS Profile in early fall if you’re applying for financial aid
• Fill out your applications—do not procrastinate! Keep deadlines in focus.
• Submit your test scores from SAT or ACT to schools.
• Print and save copies of each application. Keep all copies of records, test scores, essays, and applications.
• Submit applications, supplements, and fees for all colleges with fall deadlines.
• Apply for your FAFSA PIN number in December
• Submit applications, supplements, and fees for all colleges on your list.
• Fill out and submit FAFSA, CSS Profile, and any other required financial aid forms. Print copies for your records.
• Review your Student Aid Report (SAR) when you receive it and make any necessary corrections.
• Confirm that all application and financial aid materials have been received.
• Complete college scholarship applications
• Confirm that midyear grades have been sent to colleges
• If accepted Early Decision, withdraw applications to other schools
• Review your acceptances
• Visit colleges if you can. Stay overnight if you can.
• Think about getting a summer job or internship.
• Review your financial aid offers and weigh your options.
• Choose a college! Accept their offer. Decline other schools’ financial aid offers.
• Choose a payment plan.
• Ensure that your final grade report is sent to the college you choose.
• Follow up and finalize any financial aid plans
• Look for summer mailings from colleges regarding housing, orientation, course selection, etc.
• Make your first payment on time.
• Pack for college!

That’s it! Remember: no matter what stage of the process you’re at, we’re here to help! Feel free to ask us your questions!

Additional Resources:   “Winning College Scholarships for High Schoolers” Video Course

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The Best College Application Timeline (2022 – 2023)

Find out what you need to be organized when applying to college.

It’s no secret that the college admissions process can be a stressful one. After years of studying and preparing, sitting for standardized tests and pursuing the valuable extracurriculars related to your interests, it’s finally time for students to choose which colleges to apply to, to prepare an outstanding college application, and send out application packages detailing all their hard work and accomplishments. Having an ideal college application timeline in place at the start of your junior year of high school will help you stay on track!

With so much going on junior and senior years, it’s easy to lose track of time and forget some of the key deadlines for completing tasks and submitting materials. Follow this college application timeline to ensure tasks are completed on time and give yourself the best shot at being accepted to your dream school.

Related: BS/MD Program Admissions: The Ultimate Guide

College application timeline: junior year of high school.

September – February

Believe it or not, the college application timeline process starts as early as the fall of your junior year of high school. During this time, students should meet with their college counselor to discuss their educational goals. Depending on what schools they hope to attend, students may need to adjust their course loads or take on new extracurriculars. Additionally, students should start preparing for any AP exams they’re going to take the following May and decide when they want to sit for the ACT or SAT for the first time. Below is a checklist to consider:

– Research colleges: use college search engines, visit schools’ websites, and attend college fairs. Visit those colleges that really interest you. – Start to narrow down your list of potential colleges. – Consider your extracurricular activities, academic interests, and scholarly endeavors and start thinking about what major you may apply for. Think about what independent, research, or capstone project you could pursue to demonstrate your scholarly excellence. – Start thinking about your summer plans. – Register for standardized tests: SAT, ACT, and AP exams. – If you haven’t already done so, take the PSAT in order to practice for the SAT and be entered into the National Merit Scholarship Program.

March – May

During the second half of junior year, students will take AP exams. Most students also opt to sit for the SAT for the first time in the spring of 11th grade. Additionally, students should consider requesting letters of recommendation from teachers and coaches prior to the end of the school year. Doing this gives writers more time to craft meaningful letters and ensures your recommendation doesn’t slip through the cracks. Below is a checklist to consider:

– Take standardized tests: SAT , ACT , and AP exams . Most students take the SAT/ACT for the first time in spring of junior year. – Finalize summer plans and continue your most focused extracurricular activities. – Start thinking about what major you will be applying for and make sure your activities show evidence for your interest. Start or keep working on your independent project. – Ask teachers if they would be willing to write you a letter of recommendation. Be sure to follow up with your teachers over the summer! – Identify what major you will be applying for and do your best to try and showcase achievement within that discipline. – Ask teachers if they would be willing to write you a letter of recommendation.

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College Application Timeline: Senior Year of High Schoo l

June – August Before Senior Year

Senior year is when you really need a solid college application timeline. If you were dissatisfied with your SAT results – or simply want to increase your score – the summer before senior year is a good time to retake the test. In general, around 63 percent of students see a score increase when they take the SAT a second time. However, experts generally don’t recommend taking the exam more than two or three times. Summer is also a good time to take an SAT prep course if you’re looking for significant score improvements.

Additionally, students should set up their application accounts during the summer break. While most students will wind up using the Common App, some schools require students to create accounts on the Coalition or UC apps as well. Take advantage of the warm weather at this time of year to tour local colleges you’re thinking of attending. You can also take virtual tours of colleges that are farther away. That way, you don’t waste time or money applying to schools that aren’t in serious contention. Below is a checklist to consider:

– Relax and enjoy your summer! You’ve worked hard up to this point and deserve a break before senior year begins. – Use this time to brainstorm ideas for your independent project or capstone research project if you haven’t started one already. What you do in your senior year of college can help you in the process especially for regular decision applications. – If you haven’t already done so, visit the colleges on your list to get a feel for the campus and see what is the right fit for you. – If you are retaking the SAT/ACT, prepare accordingly and target those areas where you need to improve. – Open and work on Common App, Coalition App, and UC Application. – Open BS/MD application (if applicable). – Begin working on your personal statement or application essays. – Start working on the Common App essay. – Start working on Common App activities.

September – October

During the fall of senior year, students should finalize their college application lists and determine whether they’ll be applying to any schools early. Early decision (ED), early action (EA), and restrictive early action (REA) options allow students to receive admissions decisions earlier in the application cycle.

Note that you should only apply to a college ED if you’re certain you want to attend since ED is a binding commitment, though early action is generally more flexible. For best results, be sure your college list includes a minimum of four match schools (moderately competitive), and two likely schools (least competitive) and as many reach schools as you would like.

Take time to research each of the schools you’re considering in the fall of senior year and note any important dates and deadlines. Most ED, EA, and REA deadlines are November 1st. While most colleges have a regular decision application deadline of January 1 or January 15, there are some exceptions. For example, students need to submit materials to the UC schools by November 30. Keep a calendar or spreadsheet with these dates so nothing falls through the cracks.

Once you’ve decided where to apply, it’s time to fill out your applications. Write the Common App Essay during this period, as well as any required supplemental essays. After completing your essays, take time to solicit feedback from trusted sources like parents, tutors, or teachers. You can also use a professional service that provides college essay feedback for a fee. Most students write a few drafts of their essay over a period of two weeks to a month.

Students should also use this time period to collect additional documentation and information they’ll need for their application packages. Along with requesting your SAT scores, it’s a good idea to check in with the individuals writing your recommendation letters to be sure they haven’t forgotten. Finally, students can submit their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as October 1.

– Continue working on college applications. – Start working on supplemental applications. – Finalize college list. – Sign up for college interviews if offered. – Some colleges have a rolling admissions process, meaning they review applications as they are received and make decisions accordingly. – Apply Early Action or Early Decision if you’ve decided to pursue these opportunities. – Request transcripts from your guidance counselor. – Reconnect with teachers you asked for letters of recommendation from in the spring. – Continue to work hard! First quarter and first semester senior year grades matter! Keep working on your extracurriculars and independent project. – Submit early action, restrictive early action, and early decision applications.

November – December

– Continue working on regular decision college applications and supplemental applications. – Sign up for college interviews if offered. – Some colleges have a rolling admissions process, meaning they review applications as they are received and make decisions accordingly. Submit to colleges with rolling admissions as soon as applications open! – Apply Early Action, Restrictive Early Action, or Early Decision if you’ve decided on a first choice school and meet the requirements. – Request transcripts from your guidance counselor. – Remind teachers about letters of recommendation, if necessary. Write thank you notes to recommenders once letters are submitted.

– Submit regular decision (RD) college applications. – Decide if you will be applying Early Decision 2 (ED2). These applications are submitted at the same time as RD applications. – Ensure all transcripts are requested and sent. – Continue interviews. – Start seeking out scholarship opportunities.

February – April

– ED2 admissions results, which are binding, are typically released in early to mid-February. – Continue working on your independent project or capstone research project. – Most colleges extend acceptance from March through April. – Attend admitted students’ days for colleges where you are accepted and seriously considering.

May – June

During the spring of senior year, students can expect to receive their acceptance and rejection letters from regular decision colleges. If you were waitlisted at a particular school, you may be able to submit a waitlist letter during this period. It’s also the time when some students choose to letters of continued interest to colleges that waitlisted their applications. Once you’ve reviewed all your acceptances and financial offers, it’s time to make a final decision and submit your deposit.

It’s important to remember that the timeline listed above may not work for every student. In some cases, it may make more sense to complete steps slightly earlier or later than suggested. The goal is to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time to create a robust application package that gives you the best shot at success.

– Make a decision about which college to attend. – If you are waitlisted at a top choice school, send a letter of continued interest. – Submit your housing deposit and any other necessary paperwork to finalize your enrollment. – Celebrate your accomplishments! You’ve worked hard and deserve it.

July – August

– Get ready for college! Use this time to prepare for move-in day, – Attend any required orientations and deadlines set by your college. – Start thinking about your class schedule. Some colleges require you to select courses before you matriculate.

August- September

– Move into your college dorm. – Attend orientation and then start classes! Good luck!

By following the steps on this timeline, you’ll set yourself up for a successful transition to college. Remember to take things one step at a time and enjoy the process. Soon enough, you’ll be a college student! MedEdits wishes you the best of luck!

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What the heck is happening with college financial aid this year?

A version of this story appeared in CNN’s What Matters newsletter. To get it in your inbox, sign up for free  here .

The already stressful college admissions process was thrown into chaos this year by a botched bureaucratic upgrade. Hiccups and delays in the federal financial aid process have kept some high school seniors and current college students from getting aid packages from schools.

The dirty secret of college tuition is that most people won’t end up paying full price, but the delays mean that many students have not yet received the real offers. Students can’t finalize plans if they don’t know how much things will cost.

The meltdown occurred, ironically, because the government tried to make it easier to fill out the FAFSA – the Free Application for Federal Student Aid.

Katie Lobosco is a CNN reporter who covers higher education, and she notes that every college student, whether they are new or returning, must submit the FAFSA in order to be eligible for federal grants and loans. In most cases, the FAFSA is also used to determine financial aid provided by colleges as well, though some require students to submit an additional form.

The FAFSA fiasco has created a two-front student debt issue for the Biden administration. On the one hand, President Joe Biden has used executive authority to try to forgive many existing, burdensome student loans. On the other hand, his administration is struggling to get students access to financial aid in the first place – which puts some students at risk of missing out on scholarships and grants, potentially forcing them to take on more student debt to begin with.

I talked to Lobosco by email to figure out what’s going on with the FAFSA.

WOLF: What the heck happened with the FAFSA this year?

LOBOSCO: To put it bluntly, the whole FAFSA process has been hit with delay after delay this year, leaving students and colleges in limbo.

The Department of Education  released a major overhaul  of the FAFSA for the 2024-25 academic year, as required by Congress. And while the new version is meant to make the process of applying for college financial aid easier for students and families, the rollout of the form has been anything but smooth.

First, the form wasn’t available until the very end of December – about three months later than usual – and was offline for many hours of the day during the first week of January. Since then, the FAFSA process has been plagued with problems and glitches, making it hard for some students and families to complete the form.

What’s more, a series of FAFSA calculation errors made on the backend were found in the past month that potentially impacts about 1 million forms that have already been processed.

These blunders create two major problems:

• Fewer students have completed the FAFSA so far this year.
• Colleges and universities are way behind schedule in getting financial aid award letters to prospective students who are trying to decide where to enroll next year.

Is the problem fixed?

WOLF: Have all students gotten aid letters at this point?

LOBOSCO: Some but not all problems have been fixed. Several  known issues remain , impacting some people when they are filling out the form. And the Department of Education still has to  reprocess some forms .

Typically, colleges and universities send students their financial aid award letters in March – but this year, schools didn’t even begin to receive FAFSA information until March. Once they receive an applicant’s information, they then can develop an aid package (usually consisting of scholarships, grants and/or loans) to offer the student.

Most of the students I’ve spoken with are still waiting for those letters and, because of the complicated way financial aid works in this country, they won’t know how much college will cost them next year until they receive them.

What’s the new timeline for seniors?

WOLF: When do high school seniors have to decide where to enroll next year?

LOBOSCO: Colleges and universities usually give students a deadline of May 1, commonly known as “college decision day,” to say whether they intend to enroll in the fall and to pay a deposit.  Hundreds of schools  have said that they will push back the deadline this year due to the problems with the FAFSA – but others have not.

This is why students and families are freaking out. They may have to decide where to enroll without having all the information about how much their options will cost.

Who is this affecting?

WOLF: What do we know about the hundreds of thousands of people who may not have completed their FAFSA yet?

LOBOSCO: It’s safe to say that hundreds of thousands of students still have to submit the form this year in order to qualify for financial aid starting in the fall – and the fear is that low-income families that need the help the most are the ones getting tripped up by all the glitches with the process.

About 34% of high school seniors had submitted the FAFSA as of March 22, according to the  National College Attainment Network . That’s about 29% fewer compared with the prior class at that same point the year before.

There has been a bigger drop in the share of high school seniors submitting the FAFSA from lower-income schools as well as those schools with a higher percentage of minority students, according to the NCAN data.

Who is to blame for this?

WOLF: Do we have any idea why this happened?

LOBOSCO: There’s plenty of blame to go around. The Biden administration has said that this was a huge undertaking – one that not only transformed the FAFSA form itself, but the calculations and backend processing system as well – and that its requests for more funding from Congress were not met.

Republicans argue that the Department of Education was too focused on implementing Biden’s student loan forgiveness policies and let the FAFSA work fall to the wayside.

Some frustrated families are saying the government should not have released the updated form if it wasn’t ready for prime time. But Congress required the changes be implemented by January 1, 2024 – a deadline that had already been pushed back a year.

What’s the prognosis for next year?

WOLF: I’m reminded of the fantastically horrible rollout of healthcare.gov, a failure of bureaucracy that was fixed in subsequent enrollment periods. Will this FAFSA problem be fixed next year?

LOBOSCO: No one knows for sure, but I think the FAFSA process will be a lot smoother next year. There may be some glitches here and there, but the Department of Education is working out all the kinks as they come up.

Plus, the government has every intention of opening the FAFSA on October 1, as per usual, for those applying for financial aid for the 2025-26 academic year. So students and families will have more time to complete the form and, if all goes as planned, colleges and universities will get the information they need from the FAFSA with enough time to send their aid packages to students in March.

This is a separate issue than Biden’s efforts to relieve student loan debt

WOLF: While the Biden administration gets low marks for this FAFSA fiasco, Biden has done quite a bit (without Congress) to work toward student loan forgiveness. What are the broad outlines to know about that? 

LOBOSCO: This is true. The Biden administration has made it easier for borrowers to get debt relief. About 4 million people have seen their federal student debt canceled under Biden,  totaling about $144 billion .

His administration has done this largely by canceling debt through existing programs that deliver relief to certain groups of borrowers like public-sector workers, students who were defrauded by for-profit colleges, and disabled borrowers. (Biden’s broad student loan forgiveness program that got the most attention was struck down by the Supreme Court last year and never took effect.)

But those debt relief efforts don’t help high school seniors applying to college right now who are frustrated with the FAFSA problems. They would only help students after they’ve accumulated student debt and don’t address the root of the problem: College is expensive.

What do people need to know about this process?

WOLF: You cover this issue. What do you wish more Americans knew about how the financial aid process works?

LOBOSCO: I think the problems we’re seeing with the FAFSA this year highlight just how complicated our nation’s college financial aid system can be.

The cost of college is hardly transparent for families. Colleges and universities publish tuition prices and room and board costs – but these “sticker prices” are not usually what students and families end up paying. Only after they receive their financial aid award letters from the colleges – the ones most are waiting for right now – do they truly find out what colleges is going to cost them for the next year.

What are the solutions?

WOLF: The growth of student debt has been cited as a major issue and a barrier to economic mobility, which is ironic since a college degree is supposed to help people improve their situation. What are some of the more interesting ideas about how to fix the system?

LOBOSCO: I can’t say I’ve seen many novel ideas gain traction in Congress during my years covering this issue, as the left and the right generally disagree about the best approach.

Progressives like Sens. Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders have called for using public funds to make some colleges free – or, at a minimum, subsidize the cost enough so that lower- and middle-income students don’t have to take on debt to complete their degrees. Biden has proposed making two-year community colleges free.

A broad bill put forth by House Republicans includes a variety of provisions to address the cost of college, including: making colleges pay when students can’t afford their student loan payments – a policy called “risk-sharing”; putting limits on how much students can borrow; and changing the way interest on federal student loans capitalizes.

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When are the application deadlines for college.

Senior Associate, JPMorgan Chase

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.

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After a Year of Turmoil, Harvard’s Applications Drop

With the exception of Brown University, some other highly selective schools saw a record rise in the number of students who applied for admission.

By Anemona Hartocollis and Stephanie Saul

Applications to Harvard College were down this year, even as many other highly selective schools hit record highs.

The drop suggests that a year of turmoil — which went into overdrive with a student letter that said Israel was “entirely responsible” for the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks — may have dented Harvard’s reputation and deterred some students from applying.

Harvard’s announcement on Thursday evening came as all eight Ivy League schools sent out their notices of admission or rejection, known as Ivy Day.

While Brown University also saw a drop in applications, applications rose at many other elite colleges, including the University of Pennsylvania, Dartmouth, Columbia, M.I.T., Bowdoin, Amherst and the University of Virginia.

Harvard focused on the positive.

“Beyond another strong applicant pool, we are delighted by the stunning array of talents and lived experiences the class of 2028 will bring with them from throughout the United States and around the world,” William R. Fitzsimmons, dean of admissions and financial aid, said in a statement.

College counselors and admissions experts said that it was difficult to pin down the factors behind the decline in Harvard’s numbers, but that the scrutiny has been intense and, by some accounts, the reputational damage severe. It began with a historic Supreme Court decision on June 29, striking down decades of affirmative action policy at Harvard that had become a model for higher education across the country. It culminated in the resignation on Jan. 2 of Claudine Gay, who was not just Harvard’s president, but its first Black president. At that point, she faced accusations of plagiarism in her scholarly work, which she stood by, on top of complaints about her evasive testimony on antisemitism in December before the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

The effect on Harvard was so striking that a cartoon in The New York Daily News by Bill Bramhall showed a girl telling her parents, “Darn. I got into Harvard.”

A private college admissions coach, Hafeez Lakhani, said that the anxiety over campus climate was particularly acute in the fall. “Students were terrified about the doxxing trucks, the C.E.O.s calling for protester names, students losing job offers for speaking up about Israel-Palestine,” he said. “I think that drove some applicants to less-spotlight schools.”

Another coach, Deb Felix, said she had referred her concerned clients to a Facebook group Mothers Against College Antisemitism , which has gained 55,700 members since it was formed in late October, as a resource on campus climate.

But some families, even Orthodox Jewish families, were not deterred by the bad publicity.

“Getting accepted to Harvard is still getting accepted to Harvard,” said Rivka Scheinfeld, whose daughter, Tamar, a student at YULA High School, a Jewish day school in Los Angeles, was accepted early. Tamar said she applied after Oct. 7, and thought she could be a voice against antisemitism. “I want to go, I want to advocate for something that I know is right,” she said.

Many schools have been shaken by protests over the war in Gaza, as well as by complaints of antisemitism and Islamophobia over the last few months. Brown saw its share of campus conflict over the war, with dozens of students arrested for trespassing following two sit-ins on campus.

But the University of Pennsylvania saw record applications — 65,230 — a nearly 10 percent rise from the year before, despite criticism of its then-president, M. Elizabeth Magill, for her legalistic testimony on antisemitism in the House hearing.

One significant difference between Harvard and Penn: Ms. Magill resigned swiftly — on Dec. 9, four days after her testimony. Dr. Gay, who testified the same day, lingered on until Jan. 2, as accusations of plagiarism against her mounted on top of the complaints that she had not taken a strong enough stance against antisemitism.

Overall, Harvard received 54,008 undergraduate applications in this admissions cycle, compared with 56,937 last year, a drop of about 5 percent. That continues a trend that began with early applications, which were down 17 percent this cycle. Regular applications were down by almost 3 percent, to 46,087 from 47,384.

The college offered admission to 1,937 students for the class of 2028. Harvard said that despite the year-to-year decline in numbers, this was the fourth year in a row that the college had received more than 50,000 applications.

Application numbers have been high since the start of the pandemic, after Harvard and other schools dropped their requirements for standardized test scores. Mr. Lakhani, the college consultant, said that the boost was fading as more students realized that they still needed to submit test scores to stay competitive.

But at M.I.T., which reinstated testing requirements, applications were up by almost 5 percent. Its president, Sally Kornbluth, survived the congressional grilling that helped topple Dr. Gay and Ms. Magill.

Among the Ivies, applications to Brown were down by almost 5 percent from last year, still the third-largest applicant pool it has ever had. Brian Clark, a Brown spokesman, said that some students were put off by a longer application with more essay questions.

Yale and Dartmouth said they had received a record number of applications, both up by 10 percent from last year. At Columbia, which also was in the news because of student protests, applications rose by about 5 percent. Cornell and Princeton said they had made a policy decision not to release the number of applicants or the admission rates.

Applications also rose at the University of Virginia and the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, which was a defendant in the landmark Supreme Court decision on affirmative action.

Because of the Supreme Court decision banning race-conscious admissions, colleges have said they will not be releasing the racial or ethnic breakdown of their applicants or admitted students until the summer or fall, after the waiting lists have been exhausted.

But it appeared that colleges were using other methods to enhance the diversity of their incoming classes, such as the recruitment of poor and rural students and students who would be the first generation in their families to go to college.

Harvard said that first-generation students made up about 20 percent of the class and that students eligible for federal Pell grants, a measure of poverty, made up almost 21 percent. Other colleges declined to release the poverty figures, saying the numbers were uncertain because of problems with the federal student aid application.

Anemona Hartocollis is a national reporter for The Times, covering higher education. More about Anemona Hartocollis

Stephanie Saul reports on colleges and universities, with a recent focus on the dramatic changes in college admissions and the debate around diversity, equity and inclusion in higher education. More about Stephanie Saul