Applying to college can feel like a big task, especially when you’re balancing school, activities, and everything else high school brings. But with a little planning — and a clear timeline — the process can be much smoother than you think.
Whether you’re applying to one school or several, following a plan can help you feel confident and in control of your next steps. To help you stay organized, we’ve mapped out a month-by-month college application timeline. You’ll know what to do, when to do it, and how to keep everything on track.
August–September: Get Organized and Finalize Your College List
Here’s what you’ll want to keep on your radar throughout the start of the application process.
- Start the school year strong by setting up your college search system — a spreadsheet, planner, or digital checklist to track deadlines, fees, essays, and test scores.
- Finalize your college list. Make sure it includes a balance of reach, match, and safety schools.
- Create accounts early. Set up your CommonApp or individual school applications and note all deadlines.
- Schedule campus visits. Seeing schools in person (or virtually) helps you picture where you’ll thrive.
- Ask for recommendation letters. Teachers and counselors appreciate early notice — give them plenty of time.
Pro tip: Create a professional email address just for your college applications to keep everything in one place!
October–November: Apply and Stay Ahead of Deadlines
This is prime application season — and early action or early decision deadlines often fall in November.
- Submit applications. Don’t wait until the last minute. Review everything for accuracy before hitting submit.
- Write your essays. Start early, revise thoughtfully, and make sure your voice shines through.
- Send your test scores. If required, confirm your ACT or SAT results have been sent to each school.
- Complete your FAFSA form. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) typically opens October 1 — filing early can help maximize your options.
- Check in with your counselor. Confirm that transcripts and recommendation letters have been sent.
If your school uses portals or checklists (like Valparaiso University’s admission site), log in regularly to ensure everything is received.
December–January: Review, Reflect, and Prepare
- Track confirmations. Make sure every college receives your application and supporting materials.
- Watch for emails. Some schools may request midyear grades or additional forms.
- Apply for scholarships. Many have winter deadlines, and smaller awards can add up fast! (Check out our article: 7 Tips for Writing a Strong College Scholarship Essay!)
- Keep your grades strong. Colleges want to see that you’ve finished high school on a strong note.
If you’re applying to Valpo or similar universities with rolling admission, submitting early may mean hearing back sooner — and having more time to make your decision!
February–April: Compare Options and Visit Campuses
By now, decision letters are arriving, and it’s time to weigh your options.
- Review financial aid offers. Compare each package carefully — not all scholarships or aid types are the same.
- Revisit your top schools. Attend admitted student days or revisit campuses to see where you feel most at home.
- Ask questions. Talk with counselors, students, and faculty to understand what each school offers.
- Thank your recommenders. A quick thank-you note goes a long way.
May: Make it Official
Decision time!
- Submit your deposit. Most colleges have a national deadline of May 1 to confirm your spot.
- Celebrate! You’ve worked hard — take a moment to enjoy this milestone.
- Notify other schools. Let them know you’ve made your decision so they can offer your spot to another student.
- Prepare for next steps. Watch for emails about housing, orientation, and course registration.
Start Early. Stay Organized. Find Your Fit.
No matter where you are in your college application process, starting early and staying organized can make all the difference. What may seem overwhelming at first quickly becomes manageable with clear deadlines — and a little help along the way.
At Valparaiso University, our dedicated admission and financial aid counselors are here to guide you every step of the way, helping you navigate your college application timeline, stay on track, and feel confident in your next chapter. Learn more about applying to Valpo — and start your application today — at valpo.edu/apply!
