The early application deadline for many colleges is on November 1st.  The deadline marks the start of the admissions process for the incoming fall of 2026 college students.

Applying during the early admissions cycle may allow for students to have an advantage in admission decisions and scholarship consideration. On top of their school work, seniors at East have been working on the next steps of their educational journey.

Students feel that the deadline sneaks up on them amidst all the excitement of senior year. Senior Keelan Quick has been reflecting on life after high school.

“I really don’t know what I want to do with my life and It’s crazy to think this is making me plan it all out right now” Said Keelan Quick.

It seems that amongst many students, this process can feel challenging. The added time and commitment to complete essays and recommendation requests weeks ahead of the regular cycle, has seniors feeling this pressure sooner than they expected.

Senior Mar Nwosu has been finding ways to balance school work with her future plans.

“Some days I don’t have much school work and I can focus on more like college stuff, but I would say that it is taking up more time than I actually thought.” Nwosu said.

Although to most, it can feel stressful, many students also find this new chapter to be exciting.  Student athletes at East who plan to continue their sport in college are approaching applications with a different perspective.

Senior Catie Sloan, who already committed to play soccer at Loras College in Dubuque, Iowa has less stress during this time. 

“Doing the application process as a committed athlete allows me to focus less on determining which schools I want to apply to and the likelihood of me getting in, and instead focusing on scholarship opportunities and enjoying senior year.”  Sloan said.

While this time may feel stressful, there are many paths for students to pursue their collegiate goals through early action, early decision, or the regular admissions process this year.