[ Deadlines ]
Common Application Opens
More than 1,000 universities use the Common App platform. Students may create an account in advance, but applications become available for submission on this date.
UC Application Opens
The application platform for the University of California system. Application deadline: November 30.
Financial Aid (planned opening date) —
CSS Profile (College Board) and FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) typically open on October 1 each year. In some years, the FAFSA opening date has shifted, so families should monitor updates at studentaid.gov
CSS Profile
is used by approximately 250 private universities to calculate institutional financial aid. We generally recommend submitting it at least two weeks before your earliest application deadline.
FAFSA
is required for U.S. citizens and eligible permanent residents. It uses tax information from two years prior to enrollment (for example, for entry in Fall 2027, the FAFSA will use 2025 tax data).
CSS Profile and FAFSA open
CSS Profile is used by many private universities to determine institutional financial aid. FAFSA is required for U.S. citizens and eligible permanent residents.
Priority deadlines for Early Decision applicants
CSS Profile and FAFSA deadlines vary by institution.
Priority deadlines for Regular Decision applicants
Requirements and deadlines depend on the university.
For international students, FAFSA is generally not available.
Most universities require the CSS Profile, and some may also request ISFAA or ISCF forms.
Last SAT/ACT administration for ED, EA, and REA applications with a November 1 deadline.
Last SAT/ACT administration for most Regular Decision applications.
Plan to complete TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test no later than two months before application deadlines.
SAT Schedule — satsuite.collegeboard.org
ACT Schedule — act.org
Request recommendations from teachers and your school counselor no later than the end of September of Grade 12 — and ideally before the summer between Grades 11 and 12.
They need time to prepare thoughtful recommendations for an entire graduating class.
Deadlines vary by institution and may change from year to year.
This page provides a general overview. Before submitting applications, always verify information directly through each university's admissions website.