<p>So everything I've read says to start college apps the summer before senior year... but my question is, why can't you start earlier? Especially when applying to schools that utilize the common app, it seems like a good idea to get as much as a hard start as possible on apps, especially if you're planning on applying to a ton of schools (like me). The common app doesn't change from year to year from what I've heard.
Also, do most schools change their applications yearly? Why can't I work on the 2011-2012 applications now, then transfer the info over to the real applications when they're released for next year? (I'm currently a junior, by the way).
When do schools' applications for the next year become available online?</p>
<p>I think most schools’ applications and supplement q’s are released sometime in the summer (around June and July). And yes, I suppose you could start before the summer of your senior year, but you won’t have much to do besides the Common App essay. Most juniors focus on keeping their grades up and taking the SAT and such at the end of junior year, but if that’s not a problem for you, start writing as early as you’d like. Good luck! It’s definitely better to start sooner than later.</p>
<p>^ Seconded.</p>
<p>I asked for recs on the last day of junior year. don’t ask before you finish the class, but it was nice for the teachers to be able to focus on just me. I’d say the most important thing would be to have a full list of schools together by day 1 of senior year. Totally write the common app essay. You’re so on top of things though, so don’t worry.</p>
<p>Now’s a good time to make sure you are keeping a list somewhere, of all the honors, awards, school activities and outside ECs you’ve been involved in. You can add to the list as you do more (or realize you overlooked something.) It will also give you a chance to assess the range.</p>