UMass Amherst regular decision information?

Hey, what do I need to know about the regular decision process for UMass Amherst? I'm thinking of applying, and I want to understand the timeline and any other important details.

UMass Amherst's application deadline for Regular Decision is typically around January 15th. After submitting your application, it will generally undergo a thorough review by their admissions office.

UMass Amherst practices rolling admissions, which means they review applications and make admissions decisions as they are received. However, you should typically expect to receive a decision by early April. If accepted, the deposit deadline is commonly May 1st, but you should double-check this with the university.

In terms of what's required for the application: a Common Application or Coalition Application, transcripts from all high schools attended, and a $80 application fee. Since UMass Amherst is test-optional for the 2024-2025 application cycle, you can choose whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. There is also an optional personal essay and an optional letter of recommendation.

In aggregate, UMass Amherst uses a holistic review process. This means they consider academic records but also extracurricular activities, work or volunteer experiences, and potential fit with the university community.

Something you may not know about UMass Amherst is that they offer an alternative admissions option called the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS). This program is designed for students who show a high degree of motivation and perseverance, but may not meet the standard academic profile. If you believe MTSS might be a good fit for you, additional materials are required including two letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and evidence of significant improvement in academic performance in the junior or senior year of high school.

So, in short: apply by January 15th, know about the MTSS program if it's applicable, and expect a decision by around early April. It's important to note that the specifics can change each year, so confirm these details on the UMass Amherst admissions website when you apply.