What are typical college application deadlines?

Hey guys, I'm trying to get a grip on when college applications are due so I can stay organized. What are the usual deadlines for applying to colleges? Are there different deadlines for regular decision, early action, and early decision?

6 months ago

Hello! College application deadlines can definitely be overwhelming, but knowing the typical deadlines can help you stay organized. Most colleges have several different deadlines, which are usually divided among Regular Decision (RD), Early Action (EA), and Early Decision (ED). Here's a brief overview of each type of deadline:

1. Regular Decision: This is the standard deadline for most colleges. Applications are typically due between January 1st and January 15th. However, some schools may have deadlines in December or even late November (the UC system, for example, has a deadline of November 30th), and others may extend their deadlines into February. It's essential to check each college's admissions website to confirm the specific deadline.

2. Early Action: EA is a non-binding early application process that allows you to receive an admissions decision earlier than RD applicants. These deadlines usually fall on November 1st or November 15th. If accepted, you have until May 1st to decide whether or not to attend.

3. Early Decision: ED is a binding early application process, which means that if you're accepted, you're committed to attending that school. Like EA, ED deadlines are typically November 1st or November 15th. Some schools also offer a second round of ED, known as ED II, with deadlines in December or January.

Please note that these are general deadlines, and individual colleges may have different timelines. Always verify the deadlines for the specific schools you're applying to and follow their guidelines closely, as college application deadlines are strict - barring truly extreme unforeseen circumstances, if you miss the deadline, there's no way to submit your application late. It's a good idea to start keeping track of all the different deadlines on a calendar or spreadsheet to stay organized and ensure you submit all your applications on time. Good luck with your college applications!

6 months ago

About CollegeVine’s Expert FAQ

CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.