Priority Deadline vs. Regular Deadline: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Navigating the college application process can be daunting, especially when it comes to understanding the various deadlines. Priority deadlines and regular deadlines each have their own advantages and drawbacks. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the differences and make an informed decision about which deadline is best for you.

Understanding Priority Deadlines

What is a Priority Deadline?

A priority deadline is an earlier application deadline set by colleges for students who want to receive preferential consideration. Unlike a hard deadline, you can still submit your application after a priority deadline, but those who apply by the priority deadline are reviewed first.

Benefits of Applying by the Priority Deadline

1. Increased Chances of Admission: Applications submitted by the priority deadline are reviewed first, which can increase your chances of being accepted.
2. Early Financial Aid: Students who apply by the priority deadline are often considered for the best financial aid packages.
3. Priority Housing: Some colleges offer priority housing to students who apply by this date.
4. Early Decision Notification: Receive your admissions decision earlier, which can help you plan better.
5. Less Competition: Applying early can mean less competition as fewer applicants have submitted their applications by that time.

Drawbacks of Priority Deadlines

1. Shorter Preparation Time: You have less time to prepare your application materials, which can be stressful.
2. Limited Time for Improvements: You might not have your latest test scores or senior year grades available when applying early.
3. Rushed Essays and Recommendations: The need to rush might result in less polished essays and recommendations.

Understanding Regular Deadlines

What is a Regular Deadline?

A regular deadline is the final date by which all application materials must be submitted. This deadline is typically later in the admissions cycle, allowing more time to refine your application.

Benefits of Applying by the Regular Deadline

1. More Preparation Time: You have more time to gather materials, write essays, and improve test scores.
2. Opportunity for Improvement: Your senior year grades and additional extracurricular achievements can be included in your application.
3. Thorough Review Process: More time allows for a thorough review of your application materials.

Drawbacks of Regular Deadlines

1. Increased Competition: More students apply by the regular deadline, which can make it more competitive.
2. Delayed Financial Aid Consideration: Financial aid packages may not be as generous as those for priority applicants.
3. Possible Limited Space: By the time regular deadlines roll around, some programs may have fewer available spots.

How to Decide Which Deadline to Choose

Assessing Your Readiness

1. Application Preparedness: If your application is strong early on, consider applying by the priority deadline.
2. Need for Additional Time: If you need more time to strengthen your application, opt for the regular deadline.
3. Support from Counselors and Teachers: Ensure you have the necessary support to complete your application on time.

Considering Financial Aid

1. Financial Need: If you require significant financial aid, applying by the priority deadline might be advantageous.
2. Scholarship Deadlines: Some scholarships are only available to those who apply by the priority deadline.

Evaluating Your College List

1. Target Schools: Research each college’s specific deadlines and the advantages of applying early versus regular.
2. Backup Plans: Have a mix of schools with different deadlines to increase your chances of admission.
3. Specific Program Deadlines: Check if your intended major has different deadlines from the general application.

Comparing Priority Deadlines to Other Deadlines

Early Decision vs. Early Action vs. Regular Deadline

1. Early Decision is binding. You apply early (usually in November) and, if accepted, you must attend that school.
2. Early Action is non-binding: You apply early (often by November 1) and receive an earlier admissions decision (often mid-December). You have until the regular decision date (May 1) to decide if you want to attend the school.
3. Regular Deadline is non-binding: This is the final date you must submit your application if you want a chance of being accepted, often in January or February.

According to the College Board, almost 450 colleges have early decisions or early action plans, and some have both.

What Are Some Schools With Priority Deadlines?

To give you a sense of when priority deadlines are and how they compare to regular application deadlines, here's a sample of schools with priority deadlines. Most schools with priority deadlines tend to be larger public schools, although this certainly isn't always the case. If a school has a "rolling" regular deadline, that means it will continue to accept applications until it fills all the spots for the incoming freshman class.

Sample Schools with Priority Deadlines

School Name Priority Deadline Regular Deadline

Arizona State University November 1 February 1

Brigham Young University November 1 December 15

Drexel University November 1 January 15

Eastern Washington University February 1  March 18 

Loyola University Chicago December 1 Rolling

Purdue University November 1 January 15

Texas Tech University December 1 May 1

University of Arkansas November 1 August 1

University of Texas-Austin November 1 December 1

PS: Consider confirming the deadlines on the official websites, as the dates are subject to change with each application cycle.

Applying by vs. After a Priority Deadline 

Applying by the Priority Deadline

If you are able to apply by a school's priority deadline, we highly recommend it. By applying early, you guarantee that your application will be reviewed first, increasing your chances of admission and financial aid.

Applying After the Priority Deadline

While you can still be accepted if you apply after the priority deadline, you run the risk of the school having already filled its slots for the next school year. This means your application might not be reviewed at all, even if it's very strong.

Real-World Examples

1. University of Texas-Austin: Applying by the priority deadline on November 1st gives you a higher chance of securing financial aid and housing.
2. Purdue University: Priority deadline applicants receive their admission decisions earlier, allowing more time for planning.

Conclusion

Choosing between a priority deadline and a regular deadline depends on your individual circumstances and application readiness. By understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each, you can make a strategic decision that maximizes your chances of admission and financial aid.

Kollegio Can Help

Kollegio.ai can help you navigate the application process by tracking deadlines, managing your application materials, and providing personalized guidance to ensure you meet all important dates and submit a strong application. For more detailed guidance and support, visit Kollegio.ai.

This comprehensive approach ensures your application is polished and submitted on time, whether you choose to apply by the priority or regular deadline. With Kollegio.ai, you'll receive tailored advice, streamline your application process, and increase your chances of getting into your dream school.

By Frederick Goh