Hey guys! I'm a junior and I'm starting to think about applying to colleges. I've heard about early action, but I'm not sure when the best time to apply would be. I want to make sure I'm prepared, so any guidance would be really appreciated!
Hi there! It's good to see that you're getting a head start on the college application process. Early action (EA) is a great option for students who have already identified the colleges they're most interested in and would like to receive admissions decisions sooner than the regular decision timeline. Typically, early action applications are submitted in the fall of your senior year.
To give you a better idea of the timeline, most early action deadlines fall around November 1st, although some schools might have slightly different dates. It's crucial to check the specific deadlines for each institution you're planning to apply EA to, as they can vary. Admissions decisions for early action applicants are typically released in mid-December or January, depending on the school.
To prepare for early action, you should focus on the following tasks during your junior year and the summer before your senior year:
1. Research colleges and compile a list of schools you may want to apply EA to.
2. Begin working on your college essays, as they can be time-consuming and require multiple revisions.
3. Request recommendation letters from your teachers and/or counselors well in advance of the application deadlines.
4. Ensure that your test scores (if required or being submitted) are up-to-date and meet the institution's academic requirements.
5. Familiarize yourself with each institution's specific application requirements and make a checklist to help you stay organized.
Before applying, keep in mind that applying early action is non-binding, meaning that if you're accepted, you're not obligated to attend that specific college. Take advantage of this flexibility by applying EA to the schools you're most excited about but also continue working on your regular decision applications.
Good luck, and happy planning!
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