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U.S. College Application Deadlines: What You Need to Know

28/08/2024•14 minute read
U.S. College Application Deadlines: What You Need to Know

Navigating the college application process involves understanding various deadlines to ensure your applications are submitted on time.

Keep reading for general college application deadlines, individual deadlines for various colleges, early application deadlines, and advice on what to do if you miss a deadline.


General College Application Deadlines

Most colleges in the United States use the Common Application (Common App) or have similar deadlines for their own application systems. Prospective freshman applicants can choose to apply Early Action (EA) or Regular Decision (RD).

Here are some general deadlines:

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Individual College Application Deadlines

Below is a table of some popular colleges and their specific application deadlines for the 2023-2024 school year:

College/UniversityRegular Decision Deadline
Harvard UniversityJanuary 1, 2024
Stanford UniversityJanuary 5, 2024
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)January 5, 2024
University of California (all campuses)November 30, 2023
New York University (NYU) January 5, 2024
University of ChicagoJanuary 4, 2024
Princeton UniversityJanuary 1, 2024
Yale UniversityJanuary 2, 2024
Columbia UniversityJanuary 1, 2024
University of PennsylvaniaJanuary 5, 2024

Early Application Deadlines

Early application options can be advantageous if you have a strong preference for a particular college. These include Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED), both of which typically have deadlines in early November. Here's a summary of these deadlines:

  • Early Action: Non-binding, allows you to apply to multiple colleges
  • Early Decision: Binding, requires you to attend the college if accepted

Below is a table of 2023-2024 early application deadlines for some top colleges:

College/UniversityEarly Action DeadlineEarly Decision Deadline
Harvard UniversityNovember 1, 2023November 1, 2023
Stanford UniversityNovember 1, 2023N/A
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)November 1, 2023N/A
New York University (NYU)November 1, 2023November 1, 2023
University of ChicagoNovember 1, 2023November 1, 2023
Princeton University November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023
Yale University November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023
Columbia University November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023
University of Pennsylvania November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023

Coalition Application Deadlines

In addition to the Common App, some schools use the Coalition Application. Here are the Coalition App deadlines for selected top colleges:

College/University Regular Decision DeadlineEarly Action Deadline Early Decision Deadline
University of FloridaJanuary 15, 2024November 1, 2023November 1, 2023
University of WashingtonJanuary 15, 2024November 15, 2023November 15, 2023
University of North Carolina at Chapel HillJanuary 15, 2024October 15, 2023November 1, 2023
University of Wisconsin-Madison January 15, 2024November 1, 2023November 1, 2023
University of Maryland January 15, 2024 November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023
University of Texas at Austin January 15, 2024 November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023
University of Georgia January 15, 2024 October 15, 2023November 1, 2023
University of Miami January 1, 2024 November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023
Indiana University Bloomington January 15, 2024 November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023
University of Pittsburgh January 15, 2024 November 1, 2023 November 1, 2023
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What Happens If You Miss Your Deadlines/Can You Apply Late?

Once the regular decision deadline passes, which typically falls between November 1 and mid-February, applying for the fall term becomes challenging. However, some institutions extend their deadlines into March, April, and May, and others offer rolling admissions, allowing for applications until all spots are filled.

Submitting an application after the deadline can significantly reduce your chances of being considered, particularly at competitive institutions. If you find yourself in this situation, it is crucial to contact the admissions office immediately to explore any available options. You may also consider applying for the next term such as the winter or spring semester.

While missing application deadlines can be stressful, there are still options available. However, it's best to contact the admissions office directly to inquire about late submission policies.

When Should I Start Preparing My Application?

Maybe you're just starting to think about college. Or maybe you feel like you’re drowning in the application process. Either way, preparation is key to a successful college application. Ideally, you should start preparing your application materials at least six months before the deadlines. This includes:

Final Thoughts

Navigating the college application process can be overwhelming, but understanding and adhering to deadlines is critical for success. While missing a deadline can complicate matters, knowing your options and acting promptly can mitigate the impact.

If you miss a deadline, consider alternative terms or schools with rolling admissions, and always reach out to the admissions office to explore your options. Preparing well in advance, staying organized, and being proactive can make a significant difference in your college application journey.

For assistance in your top college admission journey, schedule a free consultation with us!

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