It’s not too late—colleges still accepting applications for fall 2016

Roanoke College is still accepting applications for fall 2016.

Yes, it’s getting a little late in the game. Most—but not all—admissions decisions for fall 2016 have already been made. 

But if you’re somewhat disappointed with the decisions you’ve received so far or if you want to continue exploring possibilities—for whatever reason—take heart.  

There are literally hundreds of colleges across the country ready, willing and more than happy to consider additional applications for fall 2016.

In fact, a substantial number of wonderful schools located on stunningly beautiful campuses will consider applications from prospective undergrads well into August.

In this area alone, colleges still accepting applications include St. John’s College of Annapolis, Bridgewater College, Morgan State University, Notre Dame of Maryland, Stevenson University, Virginia Union University, Coppin State University, Ferrum College, Frostburg State University, Hood College, Bowie State University, Gallaudet University, McDaniel College, Trinity Washington University, Eastern Mennonite University, Emory and Henry College, Hollins University, Shenandoah University, Marymount University, Mary Baldwin College, Liberty University, Lynchburg College, Longwood University, Randolph College, Roanoke College, University of Mary Washington* and Virginia Commonwealth University.

But don’t delay.  Even those colleges with “rolling” admissions eventually fill their seats.  And if you’re looking for financial support, be aware that scholarships are often given on a first come, first serve basis or until the money runs out.

Still, if you’re still looking or thinking about submitting additional applications, here are a few insider tips to jumpstart your research long before the annual NACAC "space available" list comes out in May:

1. Common Application member institutions still open to new applicants may be found by going to the Common App website.  Under Member Colleges, click on Search for Colleges.  Indicate that you’re looking for Fall 2016 and First Year, and complete the deadline box according to your interest. If you happen to be looking for colleges with deadlines on or after March 15, 2016, you will be rewarded with a list of over 320 institutions.
   
   
2. The Universal College Application makes the search even easier.  Simply go to go to this link and click on Fall 2016.  Scan the Regular Decision column and find 31 colleges and universities still accepting new applications, including some that are not UCA members, which are listed as a public service.
   
   Using the College Board’s Big Future search engine, start by using the Type of School filter and select “4-year,” “private” and “public” (this eliminates for-profit institutions). Scan through the other filters and select your preferences for size, location, majors, etc. Click on “Close and see results.” Once results appear, go to the dropdown box labeled “Sort by:” (upper right) and click on “Application Deadline.” 
   Caution: The list starts with “01-Jan,” goes through the calendar year.  At this point, you’d want to start reviewing the colleges with late-March deadlines, which starts on about page 16.  Schools with “no deadline” are listed at the end. It's a little confusing, and the information is only as good as what colleges tell the College Board.

Once you have a "starter" list of schools that may still be accepting applications, verify deadlines by visiting individual websites.

If websites are unclear as to the current status of the process, contact admissions offices directly and simply ask the question. 

You might be surprised to find many are more than happy to hear from you!

*Use the UMW online application only.