What updates should I expect for regular decision applications?

As I wait for my regular decision results, I want to know if there are typical updates or steps I should watch for from universities. What communication can I expect as decision dates get closer?

While all colleges handle their communication slightly differently, there are a few common updates you might receive as you await your regular decision updates.

In some cases, colleges might ask you to send in mid-year reports or transcripts that include your most recent grades. This is a fairly common request, particularly from selective colleges that want to see that you're continuing to perform strongly in your final year of high school. Your guidance counselor will usually handle this process, but it's always good to confirm with them and check your application portals to ensure that these materials have been sent and received.

In certain situations, schools may reach out to schedule an alumni or faculty interview. Not all schools offer interviews, and among those that do, some only offer them to a random selection of applicants, while others offer them to all applicants.

By the same token, sometimes colleges will contact you for additional information about something that wasn't clearly explained in your application. It could be a question about an extracurricular activity, a course you took, or something else entirely.

While not as common, some colleges may ask you to submit additional recommendation letters. However, you should only send these in if they specifically ask for them.

Finally, be on the lookout for updates about when and how decisions will be released. Some colleges may announce in an email or on their website that they've started sending out admission decisions, or they may provide a specific date and time when decisions will become available.

Keep checking your email and your application portals frequently for any updates the school may have sent. If you've been checking regularly and haven't seen anything, don't panic—no news isn't necessarily bad news. College admissions offices are extremely busy during application season, and many do not send out any updates until the decision is released. Patience is key in this part of the college application process. Best of luck!