When Should I Start My College Applications?

sarahthomas
Jun 19
2 min read

The short answer? Early in your junior year (yes, really).

However, the bulk of application work ramps up between the summer before senior year and early fall.

Let’s break it down realistically — no scare tactics, just a smart, stress-managing timeline.

📅 Junior Year: Lay the Groundwork (Fall–Spring)

This is when you can get intentional with your college application preparation. You don’t have to fill out applications yet, but everything you do now helps build a solid foundation:

Take or retake the SAT/ACT (if you're submitting scores)
Research colleges that fit your interests, goals, and budget
Visit campuses (virtually or in person) if you can
Stay on top of grades — junior year is critical
Start thinking about your story: What’s shaped you? What do you care about?
Request letters of recommendation before school ends — teachers appreciate the head start!

☀️ Summer Before Senior Year: Prime Time

Summer is golden for application prep. Why? Fewer distractions, more control over your time. Here's what to do:

Create your Common App account (and other platforms if needed)
Draft a college list with a range of reach, match, and safety schools
Start your personal statement (main essay)
Brainstorm/draft any supplemental essays
If you didn't do it at the end of junior year, request rec letters before school starts — again, teachers appreciate the head start!

🍂 Fall of Senior Year: Apply Smart, Not Panicked

Application season is here — deadlines vary, but here are the big ones:

Early Action/Early Decision: Usually Nov 1–15
Regular Decision: Typically Jan 1–15

By September, you should be finalizing essays and starting submissions. If you were able to knock out your essays during the summer, you may already be finished with the most time consuming piece!

✅ Quick Checklist: Getting Started with College Apps

Here's a no-fluff starter list to keep you on track:

☐ Build a resume or activities list

☐ Create a master college list (reach/match/safety) ☐ Note application deadlines. Seriously, NOTE THEM. ☐ Create a Common App account (and other platforms like UC, Coalition, etc. if applicable) ☐ Begin your personal statement (and don’t stress if it’s messy at first) ☐ Ask for letters of recommendation by the end of junior year or early senior fall ☐ Take/review standardized test scores (or decide if you’re going test-optional) ☐ Look into financial aid (CSS Profile and FAFSA; FAFSA availability has been all over the place; the past two years it's been open in the Dec/Jan timeframe)

If you're looking for step-by-step support on your college applications at an affordable price, click the button below for details on our newest product, AppsGenius!

In Summary...

You don’t need to have your entire future figured out — just take the next right step. Starting early isn’t about perfection; it’s about breathing room, confidence, and options.

You’ve got this.

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