Most colleges use a single application deadline for all programs, but some have different deadlines for different majors, schools within the university, or special programs. Understanding which schools use unified deadlines helps you plan your application timeline.
The vast majority of colleges use one application deadline for all undergraduate programs:
Some universities have different deadlines for different programs:
Different schools within CMU may have slightly different processes.
These schools have portfolio submission deadlines that may differ from academic deadlines.
Nearly all performing arts programs within universities have:
Portfolio Review Time: Art and architecture programs need time to evaluate portfolios.
Audition Scheduling: Performing arts programs schedule auditions over several months.
Program Capacity: Some competitive programs within universities limit freshman admission.
Application Volume: Popular programs may have earlier deadlines to manage applications.
Simplicity: One deadline to track, one application to submit.
Flexibility: Declare or change majors without worrying about different application processes.
Fairness: All students compete in the same applicant pool.
Reduced Stress: Fewer deadlines to manage during application season.
Complexity: Tracking different deadlines for different programs creates confusion.
Limited Major Exploration: Harder to change majors after admission if you applied to a specific program.
Earlier Deadlines: Some programs require applications earlier than general admission.
Additional Requirements: Portfolios, auditions, or supplemental materials may be needed.
Visit Admissions Website: Look for "Application Deadlines" pages.
Check Program Pages: Individual program pages (engineering, business, arts) often list specific requirements.
Contact Admissions: Email or call to clarify deadline requirements.
Common App/Coalition App: Both platforms show school-specific deadlines clearly.
Even schools with single Regular Decision deadlines may have:
Single deadline refers to Regular Decision, not early application rounds.
Research Early: Identify schools with multiple deadlines by September.
Create a Master Calendar: Track all deadlines in one place.
Prioritize Earlier Deadlines: Work on schools with earlier deadlines first.
Build in Buffer Time: Don't wait until deadline day to submit.
Check Program Requirements: Review specific program pages, not just general admissions.
Honors Programs: Some require separate applications with different deadlines.
Scholarship Programs: Merit scholarship deadlines may differ from admission deadlines.
Direct Admission Programs: Programs like direct-admit nursing or business may have earlier deadlines.
Combined Degree Programs: BS/MD, BA/MD, and similar programs often have separate timelines.
Single deadline schools benefit undecided students:
Schools with program-specific deadlines may limit flexibility for undecided students.
Managing multiple college deadlines while maintaining strong academics, preparing for standardized tests, and writing compelling essays requires excellent organization. At LifeWorks, we help students develop the executive function skillsand time management strategies needed to handle complex application timelines.
Get in touch to learn how we can support you.
Can I apply to multiple programs at the same university?
At most schools, you apply to one program or school within the university. Some allow you to indicate a second-choice major. Check each university's specific policy.
What if I miss a program-specific early deadline?
You may still be able to apply for Regular Decision, but some competitive programs only admit students who apply by the early deadline. Verify with the admissions office.
Do all majors at a university have the same acceptance rate?
No. Some programs (engineering, business, computer science) are often more competitive than others at the same university, even with the same deadline.
Can I change my intended major after submitting my application?
At most schools, yes. Contact admissions before decisions are released if you want to change your intended major on your application.
How do I find out if a specific program has a different deadline?
Check the specific academic program or department website, not just the general admissions page. Contact the admissions office or program directly to confirm.
Do portfolio-based programs still have application deadlines?
Yes. Portfolio submission deadlines are in addition to the regular application deadline, not instead of it. You typically submit both your application and portfolio by specific dates.
