College Application Timeline 2026–2027
Your complete month-by-month guide to the college application process. From junior year research through senior year decision day.
Key Dates at a Glance
Junior Year — Spring 2026
January–February 2026
Start College Research
Begin researching colleges that match your interests, academics, and financial situation. Create a preliminary list of 10-15 schools.
March 2026
Take the SAT/ACT
Take standardized tests for the first time. Most students take the SAT in March or May of junior year. You can retake in fall.
April–May 2026
Request Letters of Recommendation
Ask teachers, counselors, and mentors for letters of recommendation. Give them plenty of advance notice.
May 2026
AP Exams
Take AP exams. Strong scores can earn college credit and demonstrate academic rigor.
June 2026
Finalize School List & Visit Campuses
Narrow your list to 8-12 schools. Visit campuses in person or virtually. Classify as safety, match, and reach schools.
Summer Before Senior Year — Summer 2026
June–July 2026
Start Your Common App Essay
The Common App essay prompts are released each August 1. Draft your personal statement over the summer. Start with brainstorming and multiple drafts.
July 2026
Retake SAT/ACT if Needed
Take the SAT/ACT again if you want to improve your score. Scores from July testing are usually available before EA/ED deadlines.
August 1, 2026
Common App Opens!
The Common App opens on August 1 for the new cycle. You can start filling out your application. Your counselor and recommenders can submit their materials.
August 2026
Finalize Essays & Application Materials
Polish your personal statement and supplemental essays. Have multiple people review them for content and grammar.
Fall — Senior Year 2026
September 2026
Submit Early Applications
Some schools have EA/ED deadlines as early as October 15 (e.g., Georgia Tech). Submit applications well before deadlines.
October 15, 2026
Early Deadlines (Some Schools)
Schools like Georgia Tech have October 15 EA deadlines. Check your specific school deadlines carefully.
November 1, 2026
Most EA/ED Deadlines
The majority of Early Decision and Early Action deadlines fall on November 1. This includes Harvard, MIT, Stanford (EA), and most Ivy League schools (ED).
November 15, 2026
Additional EA/ED Deadlines
Some schools have November 15 Early Decision deadlines. Check your list carefully.
December 2026
EA/ED Decisions Arrive
Early Decision and Early Action decisions are typically released in mid-December. If accepted ED, withdraw other applications immediately.
Winter — Senior Year 2026-2027
December 2026 – January 2027
Submit Regular Decision Applications
Most Regular Decision deadlines fall January 1-15. Submit all remaining applications. Double-check requirements for each school.
January 1, 2027
Most Regular Decision Deadlines
The majority of top universities have January 1 Regular Decision deadlines, including Harvard, Princeton, MIT, Stanford, and many more.
February 2027
Financial Aid Deadlines
Complete the FAFSA and CSS Profile for financial aid. Many schools have February 1-15 financial aid deadlines.
March 2027
Regular Decision Notifications Begin
Regular Decision decisions begin arriving in March. Most schools notify by late March or early April.
Spring — Senior Year 2027
March–April 2027
Compare Financial Aid Offers
Compare financial aid packages from schools that accepted you. Contact financial aid offices to negotiate if needed.
April 2027
Make Campus Visits (Admitted Students Day)
Attend admitted students events at your top choices. Talk to current students, attend classes, and explore campus life.
May 1, 2027
National College Decision Day
Submit your enrollment deposit to your chosen school by May 1. Decline offers from other schools respectfully.
May–June 2027
Waitlist Updates
If you are on waitlists, you may receive updates in May or June. You can remain on waitlists while you have committed to another school.
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