Regular Decision 2027: When to Start Preparing?

Any advice on when I should begin preparing my applications for the 2027 cycle? I'm wondering about the best timeline to follow and any tips on balancing this with my current schoolwork.

While the actual application period for the 2027 cycle would typically start by August or September of 2026, it's advisable to start preparing as early as possible.

Firstly, towards the end of your junior year, start reflecting on the type of college or university that would be a good fit for you. This includes considering academic programs, school size, campus culture, location, extracurricular opportunities, and financial aid offerings. Starting in the second semester of your junior year, you can begin to put together a balanced list of reach, match, and safety schools. This list may change and evolve as you continue your research, attend college fairs, and speak with college admissions representatives.

In the spring of your junior year, you could also begin preparing for your SAT or ACT if you plan to take them. Remember that, even though these exams are no longer universally required, some colleges do request these scores, so verify the test policies for your target schools.

As summer approaches before your senior year, consider drafting outlines or even first drafts of your statement and supplemental essays. It can be advantageous to have drafts ready before the school year begins so you can focus on your senior-year coursework and extracurriculars.

Once the application period opens (commonly August for the Common App), you can begin filling out the general application information. This is also the time you should be finalizing and proofreading your essays, before submitting them in time for the application deadlines which usually fall between November and January for Regular Decision. Always double-check the specific deadlines for each college.

Maintaining a balance between schoolwork and college applications is crucial. Break your college application tasks into manageable chunks. Rather than trying to complete the whole application in a weekend, dedicate a couple of hours each week to making incremental progress. Prioritize your workload based on application deadlines and your school assignments. Stay organized with to-do lists and calendars to help manage your time effectively.

Additionally, reach out to teachers early for letters of recommendation to give them ample time. They may have multiple students asking, so be considerate of their time as well.

Remember that this is a process. Yes, applying to college can be a significant project requiring effort and thought, but it also leads to exciting opportunities. Commitment to the process can yield great results, so get started early, stay organized, and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Good luck!