Early Application Deadline

I'm a bit confused about the college admissions timeline – can anyone tell me when the early application deadline typically is for most schools?

Absolutely, let's clarify this. For many universities, the deadlines for Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) applications generally fall around November 1st or November 15th. Some colleges might have different dates, so it's vital to check the specific deadlines of the colleges you're interested in.

Early Decision is a binding agreement; if a college admits you in ED, you're expected to enroll unless the financial aid package isn't adequate. The Early Action plan, on the other hand, isn't binding and gives you the chance to apply early, hear back early, but still have until the normal commitment deadline (May 1st) to decide!

Just to note, some universities also offer a second round of Early Decision (ED II), and the deadlines for these usually are around January 1st or January 15th.

My suggestion? Start planning your applications in your junior year of high school. This will give you ample time to meet these early application deadlines and avoid unwanted stress. Don't forget to also keep track of deadlines for financial aid documentation, such as the FAFSA and CSS Profile!

Remember, every college and university might have slightly different timelines, so always consult their websites or admissions offices for the most accurate information.