Common App Deadlines for 2025-2026: Don’t Miss These Key Dates

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Common App Deadlines for 2025-2026: Don’t Miss These Key Dates

The college application process is full of important deadlines that can make or break your chances of getting into your dream school. With the Common App, keeping track of these dates is crucial to ensure you don’t miss any opportunities. This guide provides an overview of the key Common App deadlines for the 2024-2025 application cycle and tips for staying organized.

Important Common App Dates for 2024-2025

1. August 1, 2025: Common App Opens

  • The Common App becomes available for the 2024-2025 application cycle.
  • Students can create or log into their accounts, fill out the application, and begin submitting applications.

2. September – October 2025: Early Preparation

  • Research schools and finalize your college list.
  • Start drafting your personal statement and supplemental essays.

3. October 1, 2025: FAFSA Opens

  • The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) opens, allowing students to apply for financial aid.

4. November 1, 2025: Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED) Deadlines

  • Many colleges have EA and ED deadlines on or around this date.
  • Applications submitted under these plans receive earlier decisions, typically by December.

5. November 15, 2025: Additional EA and ED Deadlines

  • Some schools have later early application deadlines in mid-November.

6. January 1, 2025: Regular Decision (RD) Deadlines

  • Most colleges set their RD deadlines around this date.
  • Applications must be submitted by this deadline for regular admission consideration.

7. February 15, 2025: Priority Financial Aid Deadlines

  • Many schools require students to submit FAFSA and other financial aid documents by this date.

8. March 2025: Decision Notifications for EA and ED

  • Students who applied early can expect to receive their admissions decisions by this time.

9. April 1, 2025: Decision Notifications for RD

  • Regular decision applicants will typically receive their admissions results by this date.

10. May 1, 2025: National College Decision Day

  • Students must confirm their enrollment with one college by this date.
  • Failure to respond may result in losing your spot.

Tips for Staying on Top of Deadlines

  1. Create a Calendar
    • Use a digital or physical calendar to mark all deadlines for applications, essays, and financial aid.
  2. Start Early
    • Begin working on your application as soon as the Common App opens to avoid last-minute stress.
  3. Set Reminders
    • Use apps or alarms to remind yourself of approaching deadlines a few weeks and days in advance.
  4. Work on Essays in Advance
    • Dedicate time to drafting, revising, and finalizing your personal statement and supplemental essays.
  5. Coordinate with Recommenders
    • Request letters of recommendation early to give teachers and counselors enough time to write strong endorsements.
  6. Double-Check Requirements
    • Review each college’s specific deadlines and requirements, as they may vary slightly.
  7. Monitor Your Progress
    • Use the Common App dashboard to track the status of your applications and ensure all sections are complete.

What Happens if You Miss a Deadline?

Missing a deadline can severely impact your chances of admission, especially for competitive schools. However, some colleges may accept late applications on a case-by-case basis or have rolling admissions policies. Always contact the admissions office if you miss a deadline to explore your options.

Conclusion

Staying organized and aware of key Common App deadlines for the 2024-2025 cycle is essential for a smooth and successful college application process. Use this guide to plan your timeline and ensure you’re ready to submit your applications on time. For more information and updates, visit commonapps.net.

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