Are there any benefits of applying around December for RD?

Applying to College
1

Let’s say the RD deadline is Jan. 1, like it is for most schools. Is there a benefit to applying before Dec. 1? I already have a decent SAT score, but I am considering retaking the SAT in December. For schools like Binghampton, BU, BC, NYU… is there a benefit in applying before December 1st for RD?

2

There is no advantage sending in your application early. At all.

3

The only advantage is that you will be done with your application and can move on with your senior year.

4

Unless the school uses rolling admissions, there is zero advantage.

5

Does it help with merit?

6

Like iwannabe_Brown says, when a school uses rolling admissions, it can be good. For instance, if your school tells you faster that you’re in, then you have more time to plan for school, like figuring out which dorm to apply to, scoping classes, and other cool stuff. This video I saw had to do more with early action/decision, but she made a good point about just getting it out of your hair and moving on: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfGY2AO7RDY

7

Some schools definitely have a Dec. 1 or Dec. 15 app date for merit even if their admission deadline is Jan. 1 or later. Also, if they do rolling admissions it can be nice to hear earlier and make decisions based on that.

8

Some schools have a deadline for merit scholarships. For example, the deadline for merit scholarship consideration for USC is December 1.

Sending them early means that you can focus on finals, enjoying a nice winter break instead of stressing over apps etc.

9

@MidwestMomTo2 So let’s say the application for merit is December 1st… would I still be able to take the December SAT and send it in later? Is it just the app that is due by that deadline?

10

Some schools need it to be turned in by then for consideration for certain aid or scholarships

11

You can always update scores. But the Dec. 1 deadline is quite firm at some schools so you don’t want to miss that. Check your list of where you’re applying to make sure. The app, and merit app/essays are due on that date, but you could always note on the “additional info” part of the common app that you are planning to retake, then submit them asap.