When's the right time to send applications for Regular Decision?

Do we have to submit the application materials early even if we are applying for Regular Decision? I'm trying to manage my time and understand when everything needs to be in by.

Regular Decision deadlines commonly fall in the first week of January, but they can vary by school. For most universities, Regular Decision applications are due by January 1 or January 5. Some colleges have slightly later deadlines, and some might be as late as February or March.

Though your official deadline might be in January, you should aim to submit your application a few days or even a week early. This gives you a buffer in case you encounter any technical difficulties, and many schools start reading applications as they come in, so it can't hurt to submit early.

Remember, the deadline is the very last possible moment to submit. It’s not the first day applications are accepted or the 'best' day to submit. You can definitely submit anytime before the deadline. In fact, getting your application in earlier could help reduce stress as the application deadline approaches.

And one more note — it's not just the application itself that needs to be in by the deadline. Your test scores, letters of recommendation, transcripts, and any other required materials are generally also due by this deadline unless the college specifies otherwise. Make sure you're giving your teachers and counselors plenty of time to get their parts of your application completed too!