Senior year is an exciting yet critical time for high school students as they prepare to embark on their college journey. The college application process can feel overwhelming, but with proper guidance and a well-structured timeline, it becomes manageable. Invictus Prep is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you meet all deadlines and submit the strongest applications possible. The Common Application launched on August 1, 2024, and we’re ready to help you navigate it. Check out our Ultimate Guide to the Common Application for more detailed information.
Invictus Prep Guide with Important Dates
September
September 1 - 15
Common App Planning: This is the time to finalize your college list. Research each school thoroughly, ensuring it aligns with your academic goals, career aspirations, and personal preferences. Your college list should be a mix of reach, target, and safety schools.
Recommendation Letters: Confirm your letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors. Ensure be sure that when you request your letters of recommendation that you provide your resumes, deadlines, and any specific points you'd like them to highlight.
September 16-30
Essays: Start working on your personal statements and supplemental essays for your top-choice colleges. Review the essay prompts and begin drafting your responses. Remember, your essays are your opportunity to showcase your unique personality and experiences.
Testing: Register for any SAT/ACT exams if necessary. Remember, not all colleges require standardized test scores. Some schools have adopted test-optional policies, meaning you may not need to submit SAT or ACT scores at all. Be sure to check the specific requirements of the schools on your list. For a deeper dive into test-optional policies, refer to our blog Navigating the Mixed Policies of ACT/SAT Requirements for the 2024-2025 School Year for more information on standardized testing.
October
Submit Early Applications: Plan to submit Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) applications by mid-October, even if the deadline is November 1. Getting these applications in early can give you a head start and reduce stress as deadlines approach.
Essay Writing: Finalize your essays for ED/EA schools. Continue refining your personal statements and supplemental essays for Regular Decision (RD) schools.
FAFSA: Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible after October 1. This will help you secure financial aid and scholarships.
Attend College Visits & Fairs: Engage with admissions counselors, attend college fairs, and continue school visits. These interactions can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions about which school will be the best fit for your future.
November
November 1 - 15: College App Submission: Submit any remaining Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) applications. Most deadlines fall between November 1 and November 15. To ensure you’re fully prepared and avoid any last-minute issues, have everything you need ready by the beginning of November. This includes reviewing all application materials, confirming submission requirements, and checking for any technical issues.
Essay Writing: Work on refining your essays for Regular Decision schools. This is a crucial time to polish your applications and ensure they reflect your best work.
Common App Planning: Review your list of Regular Decision schools and double-check their deadlines. Make sure you have all the necessary materials ready for submission.
December
Early Decisions Released in Mid-December: This is when you’ll start receiving decisions for your Early Action and Early Decision applications. Stay calm and remember that this is just one part of the process.
Essays: Finalize your essays for Regular Decision applications. By now, you should have well-crafted essays that reflect your strengths and personality.
Letters of Continued Interest: If you’re deferred from an Early Decision (ED) or Early Action (EA) school, start drafting a Letter of Continued Interest to demonstrate your ongoing commitment to that institution. At Invictus Prep, our expert guidance can increase your chances of securing admission to your top-choice schools, even if you’re deferred!
January - February
Regular Decision Deadlines: Most Regular Decision deadlines are in early January. Complete and submit your applications before the holiday break. Many deadlines fall on January 1 or January 15.
Early Decision 2: If you’re applying to Early Decision 2 schools, tighten up your applications and ensure they are ready. Decisions for these schools often come by February.
March - April
Final Admissions Decisions: Most Regular Decision results will be released by early April. Begin reviewing your acceptance letters and financial aid packages to make informed decisions.
National Decision Day!: By May 1, you must submit your deposit to the college you plan to attend. This secures your spot at your chosen institution.
Waitlists: If you’re waitlisted, write and submit a Letter of Continued Interest to the schools where you’re still hoping to gain admission.
May: Finalizing the Journey
May 1 - 15
Enrollment: Confirm your enrollment and submit all necessary documents to your chosen college. This is also the time to start preparing for your transition to college life, including housing applications and orientation registration.
Celebrate!: Reflect on all your hard work, celebrate your achievements, and get ready for graduation. You’ve earned it!
Bottom Line
The college application process is a journey that requires careful planning and dedication. By following this timeline and staying on top of key dates, you’ll reduce stress and ensure that your applications are completed on time. Invictus Prep is here to guide you through every stage—from crafting standout essays to navigating complex application requirements. Our team is committed to helping you highlight your strengths and achieve your college goals. Schedule your FREE trial call with one of our college readiness experts today for personalized support tailored to your needs and help you succeed in the admissions process!
