I'm a bit confused about the whole 'regular decision' process for college applications. Can someone explain how it works and what the timelines usually are? Trying to make sure I don't miss any deadlines!
Sure, happy to help clarify this. "Regular Decision" is a standard application procedure adopted by many colleges and universities. Under this process, you submit your applications by a specified date set by the college, generally around January 1st or January 15th, although it can vary from school to school.
Once the application deadline passes, colleges review applications and make decisions over a period of a few months. Decisions typically get released between late March and early April. Once you receive your decisions, you then have until May 1st, commonly known as National College Decision Day, to decide where you'd like to enroll and submit your deposit.
One key thing to remember about Regular Decision is that it is non-binding, meaning that even if you're accepted, you're under no obligation to attend that institution. This differs from Early Decision, which is a binding agreement to attend if accepted.
Ultimately, Regular Decision gives you more time to complete your applications, gather your materials, and reflect on what schools might be the best fit for you. It also allows more time for extracurricular achievements. For example, if you're involved in an activity in the fall of your senior year that could significantly enhance your extracurricular profile, Regular Decision would give you the opportunity to include this on your application.
It's always good practice to track application deadlines for each of the schools on your list to ensure you're submitting everything on time. Also remember, applying earlier in the Regular Decision window doesn't give you any advantage in admission, but it is one step you can take to make your senior year a bit less stressful. Still, whether you submit your app on the day the application opens or the day of the deadline, it's considered on time.
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