Early Action and Early Decision Deadline - November 1!

November 1st: Early Decision and Early Action Application Deadline – What Parents Need to Know

The college application season is in full swing, and if your child is aiming for Early Decision or Early Action, November 1st is a date to mark on the calendar. Submitting applications by this deadline can offer significant advantages, including the chance to receive an admissions decision earlier in the process. Here’s what parents need to know to help their students feel confident and prepared. Remember, DonovanLane can help you with all and any of this process:

Review, Revise, and Refine

Encourage your child to carefully review each part of their Common Application. This includes double-checking information on the "My Colleges" tab for accuracy, making sure all sections are complete, and ensuring that their essay and supplemental responses showcase their unique qualities. Early applications often mean limited spots, so presenting a polished application is key!

Confirm All Requirements

Different schools have different requirements for Early Decision (binding) and Early Action (non-binding) applications. Ensure your student has checked the details for each school they’re applying to, such as specific essays or additional documentation. A quick review now can save stress later. Most schools have an ED or EA option, and some have ED II. Check the Common App to find all deadlines.

Take Advantage of Resources

Your high schools guidance counselors may be available to answer last-minute questions or provide feedback. For quick answers, most colleges have an "Applicants" webpage that lays out the requirements for prospective students. You got this!

Provide Support and Encouragement

This step in the process can feel both exciting and overwhelming, so your support can make a big difference. Most seniors will feel some sort of nostalgia, anxiety, or even bittersweet sentiments as they officially make this next step in their lives. Be patient and understand this is absolutely normal. While we parents feel a deadline urgency, your child might drag their feet a little more than we do. This is a big step!! You may find your role at this point is to simply listen. Again, Margaret and Theresa are here to help even YOU through this part!

This is a monumental process for the whole family. Be patient with yourself and your child, and celebrate their submissions together.