<p>So I'm applying to Harvard and on the app timeline they say to send the common application as soon as fall to process my admissions file, track my documents, and set up an interview. Well I have almost completed the common application but i still have the essay which i have not completed yet. my question is : should i have done this way earlier and can i just send the common app before the deadline for example in late December ?</p>
<p>December 15 is Harvard’s suggested deadline for regular decision applicants and Jan 1 is the absolute deadline. Aim to have your essay done and common app submitted at least a couple days ahead of December 15 to allow for any difficulty in submission. For the regular decision schedule, you are not at an advantage if you submit earlier, nor a disadvantage if you wait until December to submit your common app.</p>