<p>I have a bunch of free time right now due to summer and I thought that it would be useful to start looking at the actual applications to the colleges I want to apply to. However, all the application instructions, deadlines, essay prompts, etc. are for last year. When should most colleges open up the information for Fall 2012 applicants? Also, would working on essays be a bit of a time waste since the prompts could change, or are they relatively stable, generally speaking?</p>
<p>I think generally August 1st is when many of the colleges release application info.</p>
<p>The common ap preview is up, and you could start on that essay and gathering info.</p>
<p>The more you do now the less you have to do later in the busy senior year. You don’t necessarily have to write your essays now, but maybe start writing down essay ideas. Also, try making a resume to see what areas need work before application season.</p>
<p>The Common App is ready for the class of 2012 on Aug. 1. I believe most college supplements come out around this time too. But you can check now for the colleges you’re interested in, as a few have already posted the new ones for the class of 2012.</p>