How Long Before Hearing Back After Applying Common App? (And Why This is a Big Deal for Your Mental Health)
So, you’ve finally done it. You’ve braved the Common App, navigated the labyrinthine essay prompts, and submitted your applications. Now, the only thing left to do is… wait. Wait? Oh, the agony.
The question that haunts every ambitious high school senior like a bad case of senioritis: How long does it take to hear back after applying through the Common App?
The answer is as exciting as a stale bowl of cereal: it depends.
Yes, I know, the suspense is killing you. But let me break down the suspenseful symphony of college admissions timelines, because even the most chill student starts to feel like they’re trapped in a waiting room of uncertainty.
The Waiting Game: A Breakdown of Admissions Timelines
Let’s face it, waiting for college decisions is like waiting for your pizza delivery: you’re constantly checking the door, refreshing your email, and maybe even hallucinating the doorbell ringing.
Here’s the general breakdown of how long you might wait, depending on your application plan:
- Early Action (EA) and Early Decision (ED) I: If you’re an EA or ED I applicant, you’ll probably hear back in mid- to late December. Imagine it: you’re still recovering from Thanksgiving dinner, and bam! An email pops up, changing your life forever.
- Early Decision (ED) II: You’re a late bloomer? No worries! ED II applications generally get decisions by February. Think of it as a Valentine’s Day gift from your dream college.
- Regular Decision (RD): You’re playing the long game? Regular Decision applicants usually hear back in March or early April. This is when your stress levels reach peak levels, but hey, at least you’re not a spring chicken (unless you’re applying to an Ivy League school, then you might be a chicken anyway).
The Common App: A One-Stop Shop for College Application Anxiety
The Common App is like a digital Hogwarts Express: it whisks you away to your dream colleges (hopefully). But it also comes with its own unique set of challenges, including the dreaded “wait to hear back” phase.
Here’s the deal: It’s not unusual for a college’s application process to take four to six weeks. That means you might be twiddling your thumbs for a while.
But there’s a silver lining! Most colleges have an application portal where you can check the status of your application. This is your chance to be the ultimate stalker (in a non-creepy way, of course). You can see if your application is complete, if any documents are missing, and even get updates on your status.
Imagine it: you’re sitting in class, trying to focus on calculus, when you suddenly remember you can check your Common App portal. You click, refresh, and… wait, what’s that? A notification! You check it out and see that your application is complete. You’re officially in the game!
Just don’t forget to breathe. The Common App portal can be a bit of a rollercoaster ride of emotions.
The Big Question: What Does It All Mean?
So, you’ve submitted your application, you’re checking the portal every five minutes, and you’re still in a state of perpetual anxiety. What does it all mean?
Well, here’s the thing: there’s no magic formula for predicting when you’ll hear back. It’s like trying to guess the winning lottery numbers (except, you know, with more stress).
But let’s get real. The time it takes to hear back isn’t the only thing that matters.What matters most is your mental health.
Taking Care of Your Mental Health During the Waiting Game
You’re not alone in this waiting game. It’s a rite of passage for every high school senior. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy.
Here are some tips for staying sane during the college admissions process:
- Take a Break From the Portal: It’s tempting to constantly check your application status, but trust me, it’s a recipe for disaster. Take breaks, go for a walk, and do something that makes you happy.
- Don’t Dwell on the What-Ifs: We all have those moments of doubt. “What if I get rejected?” “What if I don’t get into my dream school?” Instead of dwelling on these negative thoughts, focus on the things you can control, like your grades and extracurricular activities.
- Talk to Someone You Trust: If the anxiety is getting to you, reach out to a friend, family member, counselor, or therapist. Talking about your worries can help you feel less alone.
- Remember, It’s Just One Part of Your Life: College is important, but it’s not the be-all and end-all. Remember your passions, your interests, and your goals. You’re more than just your college application.
The Takeaway: Patience, My Friend, Patience
So, how long before hearing back after applying Common App? The answer, unfortunately, is it depends. But remember, it’s not just about the timeline; it’s about taking care of yourself during this stressful time.
Patience is key. Don’t let the waiting game consume you. Embrace the journey, focus on your well-being, and trust that the process will unfold as it should.
Need more guidance? Want to connect with other students who are going through the same thing? Join the JobLoving community! We’re here to support you every step of the way.