Three key dates for college applications and a scholarship webinar
If you’re like me, you’ve had stressful dreams about forgetting your locker combination or realizing it’s the end of the semester and you haven’t attended a single class. While I’m no dream analyst, I can help ease one source of stress: missing important college deadlines. In this post, I’ll highlight three critical dates to know when applying to colleges, and share details about our upcoming scholarship webinar, so you can stay on top of everything at CMU!
1. Application deadline date
College applications for Fall 2026 are officially open, and students across the country are already hitting submit. CMU’s application launched on August 1. You might be wondering, when’s the right time to apply? The answer depends on the school.
At CMU and many other schools, you have until just before classes start to apply and be admitted, but I wouldn’t recommend waiting that long! The earlier you apply, the better your chances of securing scholarships, getting the classes you want and choosing your preferred roommates and dorm. For example, at CMU, to be considered for our largest competitive scholarship, students must apply to both the university and the scholarship by November 1 of their senior year.
Many colleges have specific application deadlines, while others offer Early Decision or Early Action options, usually between October 15 and January 1. To maximize your student’s chances for admission, scholarships, and more, it’s a good idea to contact the Admissions Office at the schools they’re interested in. They can provide the most accurate information on deadlines and application policies.
2. Scholarship deadline date
Want to learn more about CMU’s scholarship programs? View this pre-recorded webinar. It includes information about scholarship opportunities, deadlines and eligibility criteria. We want to make sure that you don’t miss out on helping your student participate in the scholarship programs they’re eligible for.
For information on scholarships at other schools, start by contacting their Admissions Office. They’re usually the best source for details on both application procedures and available scholarships.
3. FAFSA opening date
Lastly, it’s crucial to know when you can start filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form is essential for federal grants and loans and often used for state and local scholarships. For Michigan students, completing the FAFSA might make them eligible for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, worth up to $5,500 per year.
The 2026-2027 FAFSA is expected to open on October 1, 2025. We will be notifying students and families when it becomes available.
CMU's Key Dates:
- August 1, 2025: Admissions Application opens for Fall 2026
- October 1, 2025: Launch of the 2026-2027 FAFSA for entering students in Fall 2026
- November 3, 2025: Deadline to submit your admissions application in order to be eligible to compete for all CMU scholarships
If you have any questions about this month’s blog, feel free to reach out.
Fire up Chips!
Bob