The Common Application (Common App) is a widely used platform for college admissions in the United States, streamlining the application process for students applying to multiple institutions. While the Common App itself does not set a universal deadline, individual colleges and universities determine their own application deadlines. Understanding these deadlines is crucial for applicants to ensure timely submission of their materials. Below is a comprehensive guide to navigating Common App deadlines, including key dates, types of deadlines, and tips for staying organized.
Types of Common App Deadlines
Colleges typically categorize their deadlines into the following types:
Early Decision (ED)
- Deadline: Usually November 1 or November 15.
- Commitment: Binding—if admitted, you must enroll at that college.
- Benefit: Higher acceptance rates due to demonstrated commitment.
- Deadline: Usually November 1 or November 15.
Early Action (EA)
- Deadline: Typically November 1 or November 15.
- Commitment: Non-binding—you can apply to other schools.
- Benefit: Receive an early decision without committing.
- Deadline: Typically November 1 or November 15.
Regular Decision (RD)
- Deadline: Most commonly January 1 or January 15.
- Commitment: Non-binding.
- Benefit: More time to prepare your application and compare options.
- Deadline: Most commonly January 1 or January 15.
Rolling Admission
- Deadline: Varies by college, often starting in August/September and continuing until all spots are filled.
- Commitment: Non-binding.
- Benefit: Decisions are made as applications are received, often within weeks.
- Deadline: Varies by college, often starting in August/September and continuing until all spots are filled.
Priority Deadline
- Deadline: Varies by college, often November or December.
- Commitment: Non-binding.
- Benefit: Increased consideration for scholarships or housing.
- Deadline: Varies by college, often November or December.
Key Dates to Remember
While deadlines vary by institution, here are general timelines to keep in mind:
- August 1: Common App opens for the new application cycle.
- October–November: Early Decision and Early Action deadlines.
- December–January: Regular Decision and Priority deadlines.
- February–March: Rolling Admission deadlines (varies by college).
How to Find Specific Deadlines
- College Websites: Always check the official admissions page of each college for accurate deadlines.
- Common App Dashboard: After adding colleges to your Common App account, their deadlines will appear in your dashboard.
- Admissions Guides: Many colleges publish detailed guides outlining deadlines for all application types.
Tips for Meeting Deadlines
- Start Early: Begin your Common App in June or July to allow ample time for essays, recommendations, and test scores.
- Create a Timeline: Use a spreadsheet or planner to track deadlines for each college.
- Double-Check Requirements: Some colleges require supplemental essays or additional materials.
- Submit Early: Aim to submit at least 2-3 days before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Confirm Receipt: After submitting, verify that all materials have been received by the college.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Procrastinating: Last-minute submissions increase the risk of errors or technical glitches.
- Ignoring Supplemental Essays: Many colleges require additional essays beyond the Common App personal statement.
- Missing Materials: Ensure transcripts, test scores, and recommendations are submitted on time.
- Confusing Deadlines: Early Decision and Early Action deadlines are often earlier than Regular Decision.
FAQ Section
What happens if I miss the Common App deadline?
+Most colleges do not accept late applications for Early Decision or Early Action. For Regular Decision, some schools may allow late submissions, but it’s best to contact the admissions office directly.
Can I change my application type after submitting?
+No, once submitted, you cannot change your application type (e.g., from Early Decision to Regular Decision). Ensure you select the correct option before submitting.
Do all colleges use the Common App?
+No, while over 1,000 colleges use the Common App, some institutions have their own application systems. Always check the college’s website for details.
How do I know if my application is complete?
+The Common App dashboard will indicate which materials have been received. Additionally, colleges may send confirmation emails.
Can I apply to multiple Early Action schools?
+Yes, Early Action is non-binding, so you can apply to multiple EA schools. However, you can only apply to one Early Decision school.
Conclusion
Navigating Common App deadlines requires careful planning and attention to detail. By understanding the different application types, staying organized, and starting early, you can maximize your chances of success. Remember, deadlines are firm, and missing them can jeopardize your application. Use the resources available, including college websites and the Common App dashboard, to stay informed and on track. Good luck!
