How late can I submit college recommendations?

I'm worried about getting one of my recommendations in on time. Are colleges generally strict about receiving recommendations by the application deadline, or is there some leeway if they're a little late?

Many colleges understand that busy teachers or counselors sometimes submit their recommendations slightly after the deadline, despite having the best intentions. While it's best to aim for the deadline, you will typically find some grace if a recommendation is slightly late. However, there is no guarantee because policies vary across schools.

Overdue recommendations should ideally come in within a week of the deadline, but it's best to check with each college's specific policies. Oftentimes, colleges permit a few extra days for items like recommendation letters and transcripts, since these components are typically controlled by parties other than the student.

In the meantime, however, you should frequently communicate with the person writing your recommendation letter, gently reminding them of the approaching deadline.

Ensure also that you've submitted your part of the application by each school's official deadline. This includes your essays, personal information, extracurricular activities, and any testing results you plan to report. The application portion that you control should be submitted on time.

In summary, while there is generally some flexibility for recommendation letters and other documents not directly controlled by the student to be submitted a little after the deadline, each college might have a slightly different policy. It is always best to check with each institution and aim to have everything handed in by the specified deadline.