When Common App is Due 2022: Key Deadlines and Application Tips

When Common App is Due 2022: Key Deadlines and Application Tips

The Common App application deadline for the 2022-2023 admissions cycle generally falls on November 1st for Early Decision (ED) and Early Action (EA) applications, and January 1st for Regular Decision (RD) applications. However, these are not universal dates for all institutions. It is crucial to verify the specific deadlines for each college or university you are applying to, as they can vary significantly.

Understanding these deadlines is paramount for a successful college application. Missing a deadline can mean forfeiting your opportunity to be considered by your dream schools. This guide will provide a comprehensive overview of Common App deadlines for the 2022-2023 cycle, along with essential tips to help you navigate the application process effectively.

Understanding Common App Application Types and Their Deadlines

The Common Application is a standardized application platform used by over 1,000 colleges and universities. It simplifies the process of applying to multiple institutions by allowing you to fill out a single application and submit it to various schools. When it comes to deadlines, the Common App distinguishes between several application types, each with its own set of submission windows.

Early Decision (ED)

Early Decision is a binding agreement. If you are accepted under Early Decision, you are committed to attending that institution and must withdraw all other applications. Due to its binding nature, ED is often used by students who have a clear top choice and are confident in their decision. The typical deadline for Early Decision applications is November 1st. Some institutions may set their ED deadline slightly later, perhaps November 15th, but November 1st is the most common date. Its imperative to check the specific ED deadline for each ED-eligible school.

Early Action (EA)

Early Action is a non-binding application option. This means that if you are accepted under Early Action, you are not obligated to attend the institution. You can still apply to other colleges and compare financial aid packages. Early Action allows students to receive their admission decision earlier than the regular decision cycle, which can be advantageous for planning purposes. Similar to Early Decision, the common deadline for Early Action applications is also often November 1st, though some schools may extend this to November 15th or even December 1st. Always confirm the EA deadline for each of your target schools.

Restrictive Early Action (REA) / Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA)

Restrictive Early Action (REA) and Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA) are less common but important to be aware of. These are also non-binding early application options, but they come with restrictions on applying to other private institutions early programs. Some highly selective universities use REA/SCEA to gauge a students level of interest. The deadlines for REA/SCEA are generally the same as ED/EA, typically around November 1st. Again, strict adherence to individual institutional deadlines is critical.

Regular Decision (RD)

Regular Decision is the most common application plan. It allows students to apply to colleges without the early commitment of ED or the restrictions of REA/SCEA. Regular Decision deadlines typically fall in January. The most common deadline is January 1st, but many institutions have deadlines in mid-January, late January, or even early February. This longer window provides more time for students to refine their applications and for those who did not apply early to still be considered.

Key Common App Deadlines for 2022-2023 (General Guidelines)

While individual school deadlines are the ultimate authority, here are some general guidelines for the 2022-2023 Common App cycle:

• Early Decision (ED) / Early Action (EA) / Restrictive Early Action (REA) / Single-Choice Early Action (SCEA): Generally due around November 1st, 2022. Some may extend to November 15th, 2022.
• Regular Decision (RD): Generally due around January 1st, 2023. Many deadlines fall between January 1st and January 31st, 2023. Some may be in early February 2023.

It is absolutely essential to check the official admissions website of each college or university you are applying to for their precise and up-to-date deadlines. The Common App website itself provides links to each institutions specific deadlines, which is a valuable resource.

Why Are Common App Deadlines So Important?

The deadlines for the Common App are not arbitrary they are a crucial part of the admissions process for several reasons:

• Fairness and Equity: Standardized deadlines ensure that all applicants are considered under the same timeframe, promoting fairness and equity in the admissions process.
• Institutional Planning: Colleges use application deadlines to manage their admissions workload, including reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and communicating with applicants.
• Demonstration of Preparedness: Meeting deadlines demonstrates organizational skills, responsibility, and a serious commitment to the application process.
• Competitive Advantage: For early application rounds, meeting the deadline can give you an advantage by allowing admissions committees to review your application before the main wave of applications arrives.

How to Navigate Common App Deadlines Effectively

Managing multiple deadlines can be daunting, but with careful planning and organization, you can ensure you submit all your applications on time. Here are some strategies:

1. Create a Master List of Deadlines

The first and most critical step is to create a comprehensive list of every college you are applying to. For each college, record:

• The full name of the institution.
• The specific application plan(s) you are using (ED, EA, RD, etc.).
• The exact deadline for each application plan, including the date and time zone.
• Any supplemental essay or recommendation letter deadlines that might differ from the main application deadline.

This list can be in a spreadsheet, a document, or even a physical planner. The goal is to have all the crucial dates in one accessible place.

2. Start Early and Work Backwards

Do not wait until the last minute to start your applications. The Common App and its essay components take time to complete thoughtfully. Begin by working backward from your deadlines:

• Early Deadlines (November 1st): Aim to have your applications finalized and submitted at least a week before the deadline. This buffer allows for unexpected technical issues or last-minute review.
• Regular Decision Deadlines (January): Even with more time, its wise to aim for completion by mid-December. This avoids the holiday rush and allows for a thorough review.

3. Break Down the Application into Smaller Tasks

The Common App can seem overwhelming, but it can be broken down into manageable parts:

• Personal Information: Gather all necessary demographic and family information.
• Academic Information: Prepare your course history and GPA.
• Activities and Awards: List all your extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and honors. Be prepared to describe them concisely and impactfully.
• Essays: This is often the most time-consuming part. Start brainstorming and outlining your main essay and any supplemental essays early.
• Recommendations: Request letters of recommendation from teachers and counselors well in advance of the deadlines. Provide them with relevant information about yourself and the colleges you are applying to.
• Test Scores: Ensure your standardized test scores (if applicable) are sent to the colleges.
• Application Fees/Waivers: Have payment information ready or confirm if you qualify for fee waivers.

4. Utilize the Common App Platform Effectively

The Common App website offers numerous resources:

• College Search: Use the "College Search" tool to find institutions that use the Common App and to access their individual deadline information.
• My Colleges List: As you add colleges to your "My Colleges" list, you can track application requirements and deadlines.
• Drafts and Saving: The Common App allows you to save your progress. Regularly save your work to avoid losing any information.

5. Seek Guidance and Support

Dont hesitate to ask for help:

• High School Counselors: Your school counselor is an invaluable resource for navigating the college application process and understanding deadlines.
• Teachers: They can provide feedback on your essays and help you identify strengths for recommendation letters.
• College Admissions Offices: If you have specific questions about deadlines or application requirements, contact the admissions office directly.
• Peers: Discussing the process with friends who are also applying can provide mutual support and insights.

6. Proofread Meticulously

Before submitting any part of your application, proofread everything multiple times. Errors in grammar, spelling, or punctuation can detract from your application. Its also a good idea to have someone else proofread your essays and application for you.

What Happens After You Submit?

Once you submit your Common App by the deadline, the work isnt entirely over:

• Confirmation: You should receive a confirmation email from the Common App and often from the individual institution acknowledging receipt of your application.
• Supplemental Materials: Ensure that all supporting documents, such as transcripts, test scores, and recommendation letters, are sent by their respective deadlines.
• Interviews: Some colleges may offer optional or required interviews. Be prepared for these.
• Financial Aid: Complete your FAFSA and CSS Profile (if required) by their deadlines, which are separate from the Common App deadlines.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid Regarding Deadlines

To ensure you stay on track, be aware of common mistakes students make:

• Assuming all deadlines are the same: This is the most frequent error. Each college sets its own specific dates.
• Confusing ED/EA with RD: Understand the commitment differences and apply accordingly.
• Waiting until the last day to submit: Technical glitches, website traffic, or last-minute issues can prevent submission if you wait too long.
• Not verifying deadlines for supplemental materials: Recommendation letters, transcripts, and test scores often have their own submission timelines.
• Ignoring time zones: Be mindful of the time zone of the institution when submitting your application.

Conclusion

The 2022-2023 Common App deadlines are critical milestones in your college application journey. For Early Decision and Early Action programs, the general due date is November 1st, 2022, while Regular Decision deadlines typically fall around January 1st, 2023. However, the most important advice remains consistent: always verify the exact deadlines for each individual college or university on their official admissions websites. By starting early, staying organized, and meticulously following instructions, you can successfully navigate the application process and present your best self to the admissions committees.